Can you still travel when you are pregnant?
This is a question that many women ask themselves. No worries for most pregnant women, but some extra preparation is necessary. Below we list the do's and don'ts so that you can enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.
Travel in your second trimester
It is advisable to plan your trip during the second trimester of your pregnancy (14 - 27 weeks). By this time, your body will already be used to being pregnant and you will finally be rid of the unpleasant morning sickness. Air travel in the third trimester requires caution. From 36 weeks onwards, airlines do not allow you to fly, so it is best to postpone your trip.
Discuss your travel plans
Discuss your travel plans with your GP or gynaecologist. Travelling is not a problem for most pregnant women. Your doctor will inform you of any objections.
- Do not take (travel) medication without consulting your doctor first.
- Your doctor can also tell you which (distant) countries have the highest risk of infection.
Be well prepared
It is important to be well prepared when travelling, especially if you are expecting a baby. Are you travelling by plane? Then book a seat with extra legroom (if possible not too far from the toilet). Take regular breaks to stretch your legs during a flight or a car journey to improve circulation. Drink and eat regularly.
If you want to travel by plane, check with the airline beforehand for specific rules. Some airlines ask for a medical certificate stating that there is no medical objection to flying from the 28th week of pregnancy.
Make sure you have enough rest periods during your holiday and avoid activities that are too risky (e.g. diving).
Inform your gynaecologist before you leave. He or she knows your personal situation and can also give you the best advice. Always take your medical information and the contact details of your gynaecologist with you. A well-informed woman is worth two!
Don't lie in the sun all day
There's nothing more pleasant than enjoying a few hours of sunshine at the beach. But when you are pregnant, your skin is often more sensitive, burns more easily and dries out more quickly. You should also avoid getting too hot or dehydrated.
Apply a sun cream (high protection factor), take extra protection (an umbrella, a scarf, ...), stay out of the sun during the hottest hours and keep a bottle of water handy!
Water and food
It is not recommended to drink untreated water or spring water, as it may be contaminated or contain harmful substances. In countries where you are not sure that the tap water is well purified, it is best to drink only bottled water (also for brushing your teeth).
Strictly follow the nutritional guidelines. When travelling, you cannot be sure that vegetables, fruit and spices have been washed properly or that all utensils used to work with meat and vegetables have been washed well. This is why it is best to choose well-cooked vegetables and meat. Raw egg dishes are also not recommended.
Do not plan to travel too far
A trip to an exotic country may sound like the ideal relaxation holiday. But it is still better to plan a holiday a little closer during your pregnancy. This way you can return quickly in case of an emergency, and you are less likely to catch tropical diseases.
Avoid travelling to areas where malaria, yellow fever or the Zika virus are common if you are pregnant or want to become pregnant. And after all, Europe has enough to offer to get away from it all!
