Every traveler has probably seen a pregnant woman trying to squeeze into an economy seat on a flight to some amazing destination that beckoned with tempting photos of the ultimate in relaxation. For me, unless you can afford to wallow with that big tummy in preferably first-class, at least business-class, then it’s not worth the effort for a long-haul flight, no matter how tempting the destination may be. It’s hard enough to cope with the rigors of traveling without being pregnant. Imagine sorting out your baby-fogged brain to actually pack luggage, stand in queue after queue (checking in and going through security) while your ankles swell, pounding the long corridors of airports, and heaven forbid, if you are on a really cheap flight carrier, having to climb stairs to get on the plane, then negotiating the aisle to get to your seat with a bunch of pushy characters who don’t care that you already have a baby on board.
Add to this the out-of-your-control disruptions of travel, such as cancellations and flight delays. Long journeys, especially those involving extended periods of sitting, can lead to swelling in the legs and ankles, dehydration, and fatigue, which are particularly problematic during pregnancy. Additionally, travel to remote or unfamiliar locations might expose pregnant women to unsanitary conditions, inadequate medical facilities, or infectious diseases, all of which can jeopardize maternal and fetal health. Air travel, while generally considered safe for most pregnancies, still carries risks such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially on long flights, due to prolonged immobility. Changes in cabin pressure and altitude may also affect oxygen levels, which could be concerning in certain pregnancies. Access to healthcare is another major issue; in case of an emergency, being far from familiar healthcare providers or facilities can delay critical treatment. Many airlines have restrictions or advisories against pregnant women traveling during certain stages of pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, due to increased risks of complications.
From navigating airports to dealing with language barriers, is a holiday worth the drama, even if you have a compassionate partner by your side?
The chunderous term ‘babymoon’ was first used by childbirth author Sheila Kitzinger in 1991 (according to Merriam-Webster), who described it as the time parents have alone with their offspring after birth. This morphed, probably at the instigation of the travel industry, into the excuse for prospective parents to run away on a holiday ‘before’ the child is born.
Traveling when pregnant can be a wonderful experience if planned carefully, offering opportunities to relax, enjoy new scenery, and create lasting memories before the arrival of a new family member. However, it also requires extra considerations to ensure the safety and comfort of both the mother and the baby. Booking a first-class seat is only one of them in my mind!
First and foremost, you should consult a healthcare provider before making any travel arrangements. They can assess the pregnancy’s progress, identify any potential risks, and provide personalized advice on travel safety, necessary medications, and precautions. Generally, traveling during the second trimester, between 14 and 28 weeks, is considered ideal because morning sickness often subsides, energy levels are higher, and the risk of preterm labor is lower.
When planning a trip, choose destinations that are easy to reach and have good medical facilities nearby. Avoid destinations at high altitudes, in tropical climates, or in regions with inadequate healthcare infrastructure, especially those plagued by malaria, zika, dengue fever, yellow fever, and other mosquito-borne diseases. Choose accommodation that offers comfort (e.g., a delicious in-house spa menu with massages for pregnant women) and easy access to amenities like a comfy daybed beside a pool. Consider slowly meandering through quaint cities or villages with plenty of fine dining options (this might be the only time you get to gobble up that gooey dessert without any guilt) while avoiding any raw or undercooked food. It’s the time to slow down and enjoy the present moment, to disconnect from work emails, social media, and daily stresses.
Remember that some medications, vaccinations, or health precautions required for travel may not be safe during pregnancy, which can limit options and complicate travel plans. Travel at any time is great, but pregnant women must carefully weigh the potential risks against the benefits and plan meticulously to ensure their safety and the well-being of their unborn child.
Before leaving home, do your homework about where you would go if an emergency arose, and what, if any, reciprocal medical agreements may be in place between your home country and the destination you are planning on traveling to.
Travel insurance shouldn't be a question, but a fact, in case something goes wrong with your precious cargo.
Gail Palethorpe, a self proclaimed Australian gypsy, is a freelance writer, photographer and eternal traveller. Check out her website Gail Palethorpe Photography and her Shutterstock profile.
