Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful phases for any woman. As a woman you are lucky to be blessed by nature to nurture life. Motherhood is a fulfilling feeling for any woman no matter what position a woman holds in society.

The idea of travelling when you’re pregnant may seem to be a daunting task. When it’s hard to get comfortable in your own bed, you might think there’s no way you will manage it on a plane or train or some strange place. But there could be any urgency and you may need to travel or it just could be a leisure trip with your partner for that much-needed time together.

Any decision to travel during pregnancy should be made in consultation with your gynaecologist as he or she will be completely aware about how much at risk you and your baby are and what mode of travel during pregnancy will suit you the best. The best time to travel is probably the middle of your pregnancy – between 14 and 28 weeks, that is during your second trimester. This is when the risks of common pregnancy emergencies are the lowest. If you have any medical or obstetric complications, such as poorly controlled diabetes, or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure, or bleeding due to an abnormally located placenta, your doctor may recommend you not to travel at any time during your pregnancy.

When you are travelling while pregnant, no matter what mode of travel you take or where your destination is, these tips will make your trip easy, comfortable, safe, and relaxing:

1. Choosing your destination wisely is important. Try to choose destinations closer to home and where you know that there are good medical facilities available in the vicinity.
2. It’s best to avoid travelling to areas where vaccinations are required during pregnancy. You should also avoid travelling to areas where there is a risk of mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria, dengue and now the Zika Virus!
3. Whether you travel by car, bus, plane or train, try to do some simple stretches every hour or so to help minimise swelling, stiffness and leg cramps.
4. Buses tend to have narrow aisles and small restrooms making it more challenging to move around.  The safest thing is to remain seated while the bus is moving. If you must use the restroom, make sure to hold on to the rail or any other fixed structure like a seat to keep your balance.
5. Trains usually have more room to navigate and walk, but since the restrooms are usually small, it is essential to hold on to rails or seat backs while the train is moving.
6. Having good, hygienic food and water during travel is a must. Include a lot of roughage and fruits. Drink plenty of bottled water and packed fruits juices for smooth bowel movements and keep the body hydrated. Avoid salty, spicy and fried food.
7. Aim to travel light and pack comfortable clothing, and low heeled or flat supportive shoes.
8. Proper sleeping posture is necessary whilst travelling by train, bus or plane. Make sure your lower back is well supported. Sleeping on your left is always preferred.

Apart from regular work schedules and meetings it is also possible that your work may involve some travel to outstation or overseas destinations. Pregnancy certainly restricts your movements to some extent, but it doesn’t have to put a damper on your work-related travel, or travel with your family. Getting away is the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy some time with your partner, family or friends before your baby arrives.

Travelling has become a part and parcel of today’s hectic urban life. Even though you are pregnant you too can enjoy vacations, like anybody else, by adhering to simple care!

With over 3 decades of experience, we at Gynaecworld completely understand a woman’s world and are here to look after the medical hurdles that come your way. You are the center of all our efforts!!!

Book your appointment today at Gynaecworld, Kemps corner, Mumbai

Call: 02223802584

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