Is Travel During Pregnancy Safe?

Prenatal

oi-Anwesha

By Anwesha Barari

Friday, September 16, 2011, 15:49

Travel during pregnancy was considered prohibited until the last century but now there are no such qualms. There is general consensus among gynecologists that travel during pregnancy is safe under normal prenatal health conditions which means that you are not having a high risk pregnancy or don't have a history of miscarriages. This permissibility has also come in partly out of necessity as our social set up has changed. Women have to most often go to work even if they are pregnant and what about single mothers who have to manage everything on their own?

To say travel during pregnancy is safe is like saying that air travel is safe. It is generally safe but not totally risk free. There are certain 'conditions apply' to it.

When Is Travel During Pregnancy Safe?

• The second trimester starting from the 17th to the 28th week is considered the best time to travel. It is less uncomfortable as the nausea of morning sickness is gone and your hormones are more or less stable.
• The first trimester is steeped in danger because maximum number of miscarriages happen during this time. It is better to avoid strenuous travel like long car drives or driving on uneven terrain.
• The third trimester is not as dangerous as the first but less safe than the second. Air travel during pregnancy is allowed only till the 32nd week but otherwise car rides and train journeys are alright as long as you keep some emergency measures for premature labour.

Which Mode Of Travel During Pregnancy Is Safe?

• Travel during pregnancy is relatively risk free in all modes depending on the time period during which you are traveling. In the second trimester all modes of travel be it car, air, travel or cruise are more or less safe.
• It is best not to keep air travel during pregnancy for the last trimester. If you are going to shift base or going to your mother's place for delivery then do it before the 30th week.
• Car travel is safe for small distances in the first trimester because it also unavoidable in a way. But it is better not to use modes of public transport like auto rickshaws or jeeps because they are a rough ride which might increase chances of miscarriage.

Special Conditions For Travel During Pregnancy:

All this talk about how or when travel during pregnancy is safe is subject to one thing and that is your personal health conditions. Prenatal care for every pregnant women varies in degree and type. What category you fall under is the most important factor to determine travel safety. If you;

• Have a history of miscarriages
• Pregnancy at an advanced age, post 35 or 40
• Diabetic or high blood pressure
• Multiple pregnancy
• High risk pregnancy due to any reason

Then no mode of travel during pregnancy is safe for you. Consult your gynecologist and only then make travel plans.