Staying at home for 9 months and 10 days may not necessarily be good and can even be a source of stress for pregnant women. Moreover, the impact of long-distance travel on pregnancy depends on the choice of transportation and the precautions taken by the expectant mother.
Traveling by Motorcycle
Even for healthy individuals, riding a motorcycle poses more risks than biking or driving a car. For pregnant women, riding a motorcycle is even more hazardous due to the growing belly, which can make it difficult to maintain balance. It is important to remember that on a motorcycle, you are not just responsible for yourself but also for the unborn child; if an accident occurs, both could be harmed.
Traveling by Airplane
Today, after millions of commercial flights, it is well understood that flying does not pose risks for healthy pregnant women. The cabin pressure in airplanes (maintained at an altitude equivalent to 5,000-8,000 feet or 1,524-2,438 meters) minimally affects the baby’s oxygen utilization.
Pregnant women with severe anemia (hemoglobin below 0.5 g/dL), those with sickle cell disease, a history of deep vein thrombosis, or placental issues are relatively contraindicated from flying. However, oxygen may only need to be supplemented prior to travel, or flight attendants can be notified in advance to provide an oxygen tank.
Domestic flights typically allow pregnant women to fly up to 36 weeks; however, international flights may not permit pregnant women beyond 32 weeks. It is also advisable to avoid flying within a few weeks of the expected delivery date and within 7 days postpartum. Always carry relevant documentation regarding pregnancy and medical history and remember the due date.
Venous thrombosis (blood clots) is a real risk during pregnancy, especially on long-haul flights. Therefore, healthcare providers often advise pregnant women to stand and walk occasionally (every 30 minutes to 2 hours) if the flight is stable and to perform ankle exercises to prevent venous inflammation and avoid lower limb swelling.
Traveling by Car
If traveling by car, the seatbelt should always be placed across the lower abdomen, meaning it should go over the hips and not the belly. Ideally, the thighs and shoulders should not move during a collision. In most accidents, the fetus recovers quickly after being subjected to the pressure of the seatbelt. However, even after seemingly minor injuries, it is recommended to have the pregnancy checked by an obstetrician.
It is advisable to stop every 2 hours to relax or use the restroom to avoid bladder pressure and prevent urinary tract infections. Wear low-heeled shoes, loose-fitting clothing, especially in summer, stay hydrated, and bring a cushion for back support.
Traveling by Train
Today, trains are likely as safe as cars or airplanes, and the health precautions for pregnant women are similar to those for the above transportation methods.
Things to Keep in Mind for Pregnant Women Before Traveling
– Weeks 14-24 are considered the best time for travel as symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and fatigue have diminished or disappeared, the risk of miscarriage is lower, and preterm labor has not yet become a concern. Furthermore, during this time, expectant mothers generally feel their best.
– Pregnant women between 25-36 weeks should not travel more than 500 km, as they may encounter difficulties accessing medical care in case of complications such as hypertension, venous inflammation, or preterm labor. However, in specific cases, healthcare providers will make the final decision.
– Research the health insurance and medical services available at your destination. Common issues include fatigue, heartburn, indigestion, constipation, vaginal discharge, leg cramps, frequent urination, and hemorrhoids. Emergency signs requiring immediate care include vaginal bleeding, blood clots, abdominal pain or contractions, rupture of membranes, severe swelling in the lower limbs, headaches, and vision disturbances.
– Diarrhea is a condition to be cautious about as it can lead to dehydration and reduced blood flow to the placenta, thus affecting the fetus. Drink boiled water and avoid long-term use of water filters containing iodine. Iodine tablets can be used for short trips lasting a few weeks.
– Only consume thoroughly cooked meat and pasteurized milk, and avoid raw vegetables to prevent infections from Toxoplasma and Listeria – diseases that can severely impact pregnancy. Drink plenty of water.
– When traveling, it may be necessary to supplement or replace certain regular medications. It is advisable to bring talcum powder, a body thermometer, bottled water, multivitamins, antifungal medications for vaginal yeast infections, and high SPF sunscreen.
– It is also wise to carry a blood pressure monitor and urine test strips to check for protein and glucose in urine; these tools help prevent severe complications during the later months of pregnancy.
