Pregnancy is a wonderful and exciting time. But at the same time, you have to think about the little things more than anything else, right? Maybe you and your husband are thinking of taking a vacation or going on a trip. That's a great idea. But we definitely need to be aware of how to make this trip safe and comfortable for both you and the baby in your womb. So let's talk about that today.
What is the best and most appropriate time to travel?
This is a question that many people have. According to medical experts, up until 24 weeks of pregnancy , which is about 6 months, if you have no complications and are in good health, you can travel in any way. During that time, the discomforts on the body are also a little less.
However, as you get closer to the baby's arrival, that is, in the third trimester, it is not advisable to travel long distances. This is because labor pains can start at any time during that period. Also, if you have any complications, you should definitely consult your doctor before planning a trip.
Simply put, the first and second trimesters are the best times to travel. But no matter when you go, it's always wise to talk to your doctor first and get permission.
In such cases, avoid traveling altogether.
Your safety and that of your child is paramount. Therefore, if you experience any of the following symptoms, please refrain from traveling and seek medical advice immediately.
- If you have frequent stomach pain (contractions) .
- If there is bleeding or any fluid coming out of the vagina.
- If your doctor has advised you to rest.
Traveling in such a situation is taking unnecessary risks. So think about your health more than the trip.
Things to be especially careful about when traveling by car
We often go on vacation by car. But when a pregnant mother travels by car, we need to be more careful than we think. Considering the number of car accidents that occur in Sri Lanka, we should think twice about traveling with a baby in the womb.
According to expert opinion, in any car accident involving a pregnant mother, no matter how minor, she should see a doctor without delay. Sometimes, even if there is no visible damage from the outside, the baby or placenta may have been affected from the inside. So, don't take that risk.
The importance of seat belts and air bags
This is a question that many mothers ask. "Is wearing a seat belt while pregnant dangerous for the baby?"
No. Not at all. In fact, it's the other way around. When used correctly, a seat belt protects you as well as your baby. Imagine two accidents at the same speed, with the same type of accident. In one, the mother was wearing a seat belt, and in the other, she wasn't. The baby of the mother who was wearing a seat belt is much more likely to have a good outcome.
The same goes for airbags. In the event of a crash where an airbag deploys, it has not been found to cause additional harm to the child. In fact, it provides additional protection.
But to get maximum protection from both of these, they must be used correctly.
| Device | How to use correctly |
|---|---|
| Seat Belt - Lap Belt | This is the most important part. Never let the lap belt ride up over your stomach . Always adjust it so that it is completely under your stomach, across the top of your thighs , and snugly against your body. |
| Seat belt - Shoulder belt | Adjust the shoulder strap so that it goes across your shoulders, between your breasts . Never place the strap under your arms or behind your back. |
| Air Bag | If you are in the driver's seat, adjust the steering wheel so that it is aimed as much as possible towards your chest. This will ensure that the airbag will not hit your stomach directly, but rather the chest area, providing maximum protection. |
Follow these tips to stay comfortable on a long journey
Sitting for hours on end, whether in a car or on a plane, is very tiring for a pregnant mother. Also, sitting for long periods of time increases the risk of blood clots in the blood vessels of the legs ( Deep Vein Thrombosis ). So think about these things too.
- Move frequently: If you're traveling by car, stop the vehicle at least once every hour and a half and walk around for a few minutes . If you're traveling by plane, get up from your seat and walk down the aisle at least once an hour.
- Give your legs a break: When traveling in a car or plane, place something like a small box under your legs and keep your legs slightly off the ground . This will prevent the bottom of your legs from getting constantly tight and restricting blood flow.
- Comfortable clothes and shoes: Wear loose-fitting clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton. They are comfortable on the body because they absorb sweat. Wear comfortable shoes. If necessary, you can ask your doctor to wear special support stockings for your legs.
- Water and snacks: Keep snacks like crackers and fruit juice handy to prevent nausea during the journey. Also, drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. It is especially important to drink plenty of water when traveling on a plane, as the air inside is dry.
- Do not take medication without medical advice: Do not take any medication for motion sickness or constipation without consulting your doctor.
If you are getting ready for a flight...
- If possible, reserve an aisle seat. This will make it easier to get up, walk around, and go to the bathroom.
- Sometimes it can get cold and hot inside the plane all at once. So wear several layers of clothing. That way, you can add or subtract as needed.
Take-Home Message
- Traveling during pregnancy is generally safe, especially during the first 24 weeks. But talk to your doctor before planning any trip.
- If you experience stomach pain, bleeding, or other unusual symptoms, cancel travel plans immediately and seek medical advice.
- Always wear your seat belt correctly when riding in a car. The lap belt should be worn across your stomach and the shoulder belt should be worn between your breasts. This will protect you and your child.
- On long journeys, ensure comfort and safety by getting up and walking around every hour or two and drinking plenty of water.
- If you are involved in any type of accident, no matter how minor, go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately or see your doctor for an examination.
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