When you decide to start a family, does that mean an end to traveling adventures? Not necessarily, but it does mean you have a new, very important consideration. Doing what’s best for the baby is bound to be your primary concern, which means looking after yourself and not taking unnecessary risks. Having said that, sometimes what’s best for baby is for you to be happy and fulfilled, and if traveling is one of the most important aspects of your life, you shouldn’t feel that you can’t continue to enjoy your passion.
Is it safe to travel when you’re pregnant?
It depends very much on you and the baby’s health. If you are having a normal pregnancy with no health complications, there’s no reason not to take a vacation or go on a trip. However, you need to listen to the advice of your healthcare practitioners if you have any health issues, or there is concern regarding the fetus. You need to plan your trips away so that you don’t miss any of your routine check-ups, as these are important for making sure everything is progressing as it should. You may feel fine, but not be aware of certain conditions such as gestational diabetes that can affect the growth rate of the baby. If picked up promptly, conditions such as these can be treated and monitored, but could be serious if left unchecked.
Risks of traveling
There are always risks in life, and as is often said, you could get run over by a bus outside your front door, but go to another country and be perfectly safe. So don’t get over-stressed about what could go wrong. You’ll need to think about the mode of transport you’ll be using and how far along you are, and check the airline regulations in particular as there will be restrictions on flying while pregnant. The closer you are to your due date, the more advisable it is to stick closer to home. Giving birth when you’re away needn’t be a major issue, but it’s always nice to be in familiar surroundings. If you do find yourself in labor when you’re away, don’t panic, as the chances are everything will go smoothly. If for some reason they don’t, and you believe the doctors or hospitals are to be at fault, make sure you contact someone like Diane Rostron for advice on your entitlement to compensation.
Looking after yourself on your travels
Being pregnant isn’t an illness, and you don’t need to behave as though you are an invalid! You just need to be mindful of what you do and where you are. For example, there’s nothing wrong with going for a hike, but how far away are you from assistance if you start to feel unwell or in pain? The bigger you get, the less physical activity you’ll feel like being. This is the time to listen to your body, and enjoy the more tranquil aspects of traveling. Avoiding extreme sports and potentially dangerous activities is wise. There will always be stories about elite athletes who have climbed a mountain or completed an arduous feat of endurance while pregnant, but you probably aren’t an elite athlete, and to be frank, why take a chance when you don’t have to?
