So you’re expecting – congratulations! Whether you booked a trip before you found out, or you’re planning a romantic babymoon ahead of your new arrival, there’s no reason to cancel your plans because there’s a baby on board.
While there are some extra precautions you should take when travelling while pregnant, there’s no reason to alter your plans significantly. Check out our three top tricks for staying healthy while you’re pregnant and travelling:
Tailor your trip to the stage of your pregnancy
While some advice for travelling while pregnant applies across all three trimesters – it’s always a good idea to avoid very hot weather or very physical activities – travel will be different depending on your trimester.
In the first trimester, many pregnant women suffer from morning sickness, so you might want to consider destinations where the food isn’t too spicy or outside of your comfort zone.
The second trimester is often the ‘easiest’ of the three, with many expectant mothers finding they have more energy and feel less ill. It can be one of the best times to book a holiday during pregnancy, especially towards the beginning of the trimester when the bump is smaller.
During the third trimester, it’s sensible to stay relatively close to home or travel to countries known for excellent healthcare provision. Some women may be advised not to travel by their doctors during this time, and relaxed holidays are likely to be most enjoyable for mums-to-be in the final few months of their pregnancy.
Think hard about how you’re likely to feel when you’re booking your trip – a city break might be enjoyable at the beginning of your second trimester, while a cottage break might suit better during the final few months.
Consider what you eat and drink
During pregnancy, it’s more important than ever than you don’t contract food poisoning, so it’s wise to take some extra precautions. Make sure any meat that you eat is cooked all the way through: steer clear of poultry and eggs altogether, and avoid salads in countries where the tap water isn’t drinkable.
Staying hydrated is important whether you’re pregnant or not, but it may be easier to become dehydrated when you’re drinking for two. Make sure you have a ready supply of bottled water and stop for a break whenever you need. In hotter weather, it’s also a good idea to keep water by your bed, to stay hydrated through the night.
Chat to your doctor
The best person to advise on your holiday plans is your doctor, and some airlines and insurance policies will require you to have clearance from a medical professional before you fly.
Your doctor can advise on whether the destination you have in mind is suitable, any vaccinations you might need before you go and how to stay healthy on holiday – everything you need to know to keep yourself and your bundle of joy fit and healthy.
