Pregnant and Traveling? What You Should Know

Wherever you're going and however you're traveling, some common-sense measures can make you happier and healthier.

For one thing, you can't be sedentary for too long. This isn't just a question of being comfortable: Sitting still for extended periods may lead to swelling of the feet and ankles. Worse, it increases the chances of developing blood clots. A clot that forms in the legs or elsewhere can travel to the lungs, which can be life-threatening. Any type of travel lasting four hours or longer can be risky, and pregnancy just ups the ante. So make sure you get up, walk around and stretch every hour or so. Compression stockings also can help ward off blood clots, but some medical conditions make them unsafe, so check with your doctor. [source: ACOG]

Here are some other ideas:

Plane, train, ship or automobile? Keep reading for transportation-specific tips.

Most pregnant women will drive and ride in cars throughout their pregnancy. With an uncomplicated pregnancy, there's no reason not to venture out in the car for a longer trip than just around town.

The most important thing to remember when traveling by car is -- buckle up. Don't make the mistake of thinking that the seatbelt or shoulder harness might harm the fetus. Studies have found that if pregnant women do get involved in an auto accident, their babies run a significantly greater risk of injury or death if the moms aren't wearing seatbelts [source: Curtis]. Make sure that your air bags work properly as well.

You should also know how to wear the seatbelt and shoulder harness correctly. Position the lap belt below your tummy, across the thighs and pelvic area. The shoulder harness should go over your shoulder rather than your neck. It should go diagonally between your breasts and off to the side of your tummy. Never put the shoulder belt under your arm. Have the lap belt and shoulder harness fit snugly, but not tightly.

Put the seat back far enough so that you're at least 10 inches (25.4 centimeters) from the airbag and dashboard. Don't worry too much if you have to brake suddenly. Your fetus is well insulated inside the womb due to the amniotic fluid that surrounds it. If you're in even a minor accident, however, visit your doctor to make sure there are no ill effects. In the latter months of pregnancy, if you no longer feel like driving, you might be more comfortable and safer in the back seat, if it has plenty of leg room.

Try to limit travel time to four hours a day, six at most -- assuming that you're aren't traveling every day, of course. Remember to stop frequently to walk around and stretch to keep the blood flowing.

Planning to fly? Find some pointers on the next page.

If you're healthy, you're probably safe to fly well into pregnancy -- at least through the 36th week. This may surprise some, but a few common worries are actually unfounded. There's no evidence that the metal detector at the security checkpoint poses a risk to you or your unborn child. If you're worried, however, you may ask for a hand or wand search.

Some people worry about low air pressure and reduced oxygen when flying at high altitudes. Commercial airplanes are well pressurized, and the body adjusts to slight differences in pressure, so there should be no problem. You might want to avoid flying in small aircraft that aren't so well pressurized, however, especially at altitudes of more than 7,000 feet (2,134 meters).

Another concern is increased exposure to radiation at higher altitudes. Luckily, that's nothing to worry about if you fly only occasionally.

There are some good tips to keep in mind if you're going to fly:

Going by train or ship? Keep reading.

The train can be a safe and comfortable method of travel, but a little planning can make the trip go even more smoothly. For instance, find out if there is a dining car on board and bring healthy snacks just in case the dining car is closed. The bathrooms tend to be small -- but so are airplane restrooms.

Pregnancy can be taxing, so why not unwind on a cruise? Ship travel can be relaxing. Sea air is refreshing. There's plenty of room to walk and exercise, and getting plenty to eat is rarely a problem.

Again, however, a little planning goes a long way. Make sure a doctor will be on board the ship. Check on the availability of medical care at all ports of call. In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Web site can tell you which ships have passed its health and safety inspections.

One potential problem with ship travel is seasickness. If you're worried about it, talk to your doctor about medications that pregnant women can take safely. One non-drug alternative that works for many women -- for both morning and motion sickness -- is acupressure wristbands. These natural means of controlling motion sickness have wristbands with plastic studs that put pressure on strategic points on the wrists. They're sold for about $10 a pair under brand names like Sea-Bands and BioBands.

Noroviruses can be another pitfall of cruise travel. These highly contagious viruses may spread rapidly through the passengers on a ship, causing severe nausea and vomiting. The attack rarely lasts more than a couple of days, but because of the dehydration it causes, it can be a real problem for pregnant women. The best way to present infection is to be careful about washing your hands and any raw vegetables or fruits you might eat. If you do get sick, seek medical attention immediately.

Considering an exotic location? Head to the next page for a few more travel tips.

You may not want to travel abroad during your pregnancy. The trip will be long and you may be far from your doctor. But if you must travel out of the country, be prepared. Talk to your doctor well in advance.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a great resource for travelers. You can find out what immunizations you might need in specific countries, as well as safe vaccines for pregnant women.

To avoid traveler's diarrhea -- especially in Third World countries -- avoid drinking the water. If you're sure of the quality of bottled water, drink that and use it for everything, even brushing your teeth. Local brands of bottled water may not be safe. If there is any doubt, use only water that has been boiled for at least one minute. Don't consume drinks with ice made from water that hasn't been boiled. Canned juices and soft drinks may be a good alternative. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables only if they've been cooked or you can peel them. Of course, make sure meat and fish are thoroughly cooked. If you do get diarrhea, seek medical help. Find out in advance what remedies work well for pregnant women.

You never know what might happen, so buying travel insurance is a good idea in case you have to cancel. Also, make sure your medical insurance policy would cover both you and the baby while you're out of the country. If not, buy travel medical insurance before you go.

Know how to get in touch with a reputable doctor at your destination. The International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers (IAMAT) has a directory of physicians from around the world. Because there can be no room for ambiguity when you get sick far from home, take a basic language dictionary with you on your trip.

However and wherever you travel, bon voyage. Read on for lots more information.