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How late in pregnancy can you travel


Traveling While Pregnant or Breastfeeding

Special considerations for traveling while pregnant

Traveling during pregnancy is normal and a lot of women do it. But it's important to think about potential problems that could come up during international travel. Also think about how you would get quality health care in the countries you are visiting. Get all of the vaccines you need before becoming pregnant instead of waiting to get them during pregnancy.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says the safest time for a woman to travel is in the second trimester of her pregnancy, from 14 to 28 weeks. This is the time when you will feel your best. You are also at the lowest risk for spontaneous abortion or premature labor. During the third trimester (25 to 40 weeks), many healthcare providers and midwives advise staying within a 300-mile radius of home because of potential problems such as high blood pressure, phlebitis, and false or preterm labor. Generally, women are not allowed to travel by air after 36 weeks for domestic travel, and after 28 to 35 weeks for international travel. The decision on whether to travel and how far to travel at any time during pregnancy should be a joint decision between you and your healthcare provider or midwife.

According to the CDC, pregnant women with the following conditions may be advised against traveling to countries that require pre-travel vaccines. This list may be incomplete. So discuss your health history with your provider or midwife before planning travel:

  • History of miscarriage

  • Incompetent cervix

  • History of ectopic pregnancy

  • History of premature labor or premature rupture of membranes

  • History of or current placental abnormalities

  • Threatened miscarriage or vaginal bleeding during current pregnancy

  • Multiple fetuses in current pregnancy

  • History of toxemia, high blood pressure, or diabetes with any pregnancy

  • History of infertility or trouble getting pregnant

  • Pregnancy for the first time over the age of 35 years

  • Heart valve disease or congestive heart failure

  • History of blood clots

  • Severe anemia

  • Chronic organ system problems that need to be treated 

You may also be advised against traveling to places that may have hazards. The list below may be incomplete. Talk about your travel plans with your healthcare provider or midwife before planning a trip.

  • Places with high altitudes

  • Places that have outbreaks of life-threatening food- or insect-borne infections

  • Places where malaria is common

  • Places where live-virus vaccines are needed or recommended

Healthy tips for traveling while pregnant

Here are tips for traveling while pregnant:

  • Try to plan ahead for any problems or emergencies that could come up before you travel. Check that your health insurance is valid while you are abroad. Also check to see whether the plan will cover a newborn, should you deliver while away. You may want to think about getting a supplemental travel and medical evacuation insurance.

  • Research medical facilities in your destination. Women in the last trimester of pregnancy should look for places that can manage complications of pregnancy, toxemia, and cesarean sections.

  • If you will need prenatal care while you are abroad, arrange for this before you leave. Talk with your healthcare provider or midwife to figure out the best way to handle this.

  • Know your blood type and check that blood is screened for HIV and hepatitis B in the areas you will be visiting.

  • Check that safe food and beverages such as bottled water and pasteurized milk are available at your destinations.

  • If flying, ask for an aisle seat at the bulkhead. This gives you the most space and comfort. If morning sickness is a problem, try to arrange travel during a time of day when you generally feel well. Seats over the wing in the midplane region will give you the smoothest ride.

  • Try to walk every half-hour during a smooth flight. Flex and extend your ankles often to prevent blood clots in the veins (thrombophlebitis).

  • Fasten your seat belt at the pelvis level, below your hips.

  • Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Aircraft cabins have low humidity.

  • Try to rest as much as possible while away. Exercise and activity during pregnancy are important. But try not to overdo it.

Special considerations for traveling while breastfeeding

Breastfeeding gives babies the most nutritional start in life. It also gives them vital protection against certain infections. But traveling internationally while nursing can be challenging.

If you are breastfeeding only, you don't have to worry about sterilizing bottles or having clean water. You may get vaccines to protect against disease, depending on where you are traveling. But diseases such as yellow fever, measles, and meningococcal meningitis may be a threat to infants who can't be vaccinated at birth. Discuss this with both your healthcare provider or midwife and your infant's care giver before you travel.

If you are feeding your baby formula, it's best to use powdered formula made with boiled water. You may also want to carry a supply of prepared infant formula in cans or ready-to-feed bottles for emergencies.

Breastfeeding helps lower the chance of your baby getting traveler's diarrhea. If you get traveler's diarrhea, drink more fluids, and continue to nurse your baby.

Watch your eating and sleeping patterns, as well as your stress levels. This will affect your milk output. Drink more fluids. Stay away from alcohol and caffeine, as well as exposure to smoke.

Pregnancy and travel - Better Health Channel

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Summary

Read the full fact sheet
  • If you are pregnant, the safest time for you to travel is during the second trimester, provided you aren’t experiencing any complications.
  • If you are pregnant and considering travel, you must consult with your doctor, especially if your pregnancy is high risk.
  • Avoid travelling to developing nations during pregnancy.
  • Be wary of taking medications of any kind, including those commonly used to treat traveller’s diarrhoea.

If you are pregnant, the safest time for you to travel, generally speaking, is during the second trimester, provided you aren’t experiencing any complications. If you are pregnant and considering travel, you must consult with your doctor, especially if your pregnancy is high risk. Consider the standard of medical care at your chosen destination, just in case you need help.

Some countries have reciprocal healthcare arrangements with Australia – check with Medicare. Travelling to developing nations is not encouraged during pregnancy for various reasons, including the risk of disease and the lower standard of medical facilities compared to Australia.

High-risk pregnancies and travel

Pregnant women experiencing complications are advised not to travel. Some complications include:

  • cervical problems, such as 'incompetent cervix'
  • vaginal bleeding
  • multiple pregnancy
  • gestational diabetes, past or present
  • high blood pressure, past or present
  • pre-eclampsia (a toxic condition sometimes occurring in pregnancy), past or present
  • abnormalities of the placenta, past or present
  • prior miscarriage
  • prior ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that develops outside the womb)
  • prior premature labour.

If you are aged 35 years or over and pregnant for the first time, you are also advised not to travel.

Travel immunisation warnings for pregnant women

Travellers to most developing nations need to be immunised against diseases such as typhoid. Most vaccines are either dangerous to unborn babies or haven't been adequately tested for safety on pregnant women.

The important exception to this is the influenza vaccine, which can be safely given during pregnancy. It is strongly recommended for all pregnant women, as influenza in pregnancy can be a very serious illness. Generally, all live virus vaccines (such as mumps and measles) should be avoided during pregnancy.

Some vaccines, such as for yellow fever, may cautiously be given after the first trimester. Be advised by your doctor. It is recommended that pregnant women delay any travel to developing nations until after their babies are born.

Travel and the risk of malaria during pregnancy

Malaria is an infection carried by particular species of mosquito. A pregnant woman who catches malaria risks miscarriage, premature labour and stillbirth. Some antimalarial drugs (such as chloroquine) are considered safe to take during pregnancy, but others (such as doxycycline) are potentially harmful to the unborn baby. It is recommended that pregnant women avoid travelling to areas where malaria is present.

Risks of long-distance travel during pregnancy

Long periods of not moving during car, bus, rail and air travel increases the risk of clots forming in the deep veins of the leg, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). These clots can circulate and lodge in parts of the body such as the lungs.

The risk of DVT is increased in pregnancy if:

  • you had a DVT in the past
  • you weigh more than 100 kg
  • you have a multiple pregnancy
  • a family member has had a DVT.

One in 1,000 pregnant women will develop DVT. Research indicates the risk of DVT can increase by two or three times in a long-distance flight.

There is no research-based advice on travel for pregnant women. However, if you choose to travel long distances, you should:

  • Do frequent leg exercises.
  • Walk regularly (in the case of air travel, walk around the aircraft cabin if the flight is smooth).
  • Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water.
  • Minimise alcohol and caffeine intake.

If you have an increased risk of DVT, you are advised to:

  • Discuss travel plans with your doctor.
  • Wear well-fitting elastic below-knee compression stockings during the journey.
  • Receive heparin injections before and after any journey longer than four hours.

Air travel and pregnancy

Before you decide to travel by plane:

  • Discuss any potential risks particular to your pregnancy with your doctor. For example, a woman with gestational diabetes or a multiple pregnancy is generally advised not to fly.
  • Be aware that air travel in the last six weeks of pregnancy could trigger premature labour.
  • Check with the airline – some airlines won't allow a woman over 35 weeks to fly at all, or they require a doctor’s note.
  • Check the fine print of your travel insurance – some policies may not cover pregnancy.
  • Arrange with the airline for a bulkhead seat or a seat near an exit for extra leg room.
  • Consider booking an aisle seat – going to the toilet will be a little easier.

Before you leave, discuss with your doctor whether you need to travel with a medical kit. Remember to pack this kit in your carry-on luggage so you can access it during the flight.

Items your medical kit could contain:

  • preparations to help you treat common pregnancy complaints such as heartburn, thrush, constipation and haemorrhoids
  • oral rehydration preparations in case of traveller’s diarrhoea
  • multivitamins formulated for pregnant women
  • urine dipsticks to check glucose levels (if required).

During the flight:

  • Wear your seatbelt under your bump and across your lap.
  • Stretch and move your legs regularly while seated. Consider wearing support stockings for the duration of the flight. A pregnant woman's circulation is already under strain – the lower cabin pressure inside a plane can theoretically increase the risk of blood clots.
  • Drink plenty of water to reduce the risk of dehydration. Keeping up your fluid intake will also reduce the risk of DVT.
  • If the flight is smooth, walk up and down the aisles every half hour.
  • If the flight has turbulence, stay in your seat, but flex and extend your ankles frequently.
  • If you are feeling short of breath or light-headed, ask one of the flight attendants to give you breathing oxygen.

Car travel and pregnancy

If travelling by car:

  • Make frequent breaks to stretch your legs and visit the toilet.
  • Always wear a seatbelt. Fasten the lap sash across your lap and under your bump, fit the shoulder sash above your bump and between your breasts.
  • Avoid wearing the lap sash across your bump as a sudden jolt could cause your placenta to separate from your uterus.
  • If you are sitting in the front passenger seat, move your seat well back from the dashboard to reduce airbag impact in case of a collision.
  • If you are driving, have your seat as far back from the steering wheel as possible, while still being able to drive safely and comfortably. It may help to tilt the steering wheel downwards, away from your belly.
  • If you are involved in a collision, however minor, see your doctor.
  • If you have contractions, pain or bleeding after an accident, see a doctor as soon as possible. Let them know if you have a rhesus negative blood group, as you may need to have an anti-D injection.
  • Consider joining a roadside assistance program that can help you in case of a breakdown, and always carry a mobile phone.

Heat and sun exposure and pregnancy

If travelling in hot weather:

  • Carry a water bottle with you and drink water frequently.
  • Stay in the shade or inside during the hottest part of the day.
  • Protect your skin by wearing loose-fitting clothing, a hat and sunscreen.
  • Avoid rushing or overexertion – plan your activities and give yourself plenty of time.

Overheating during pregnancy

If you feel weak and dizzy, light-headed or even slightly nauseous, it may be a sign that you are overheating and dehydrated. Remember:

  • to seek shade or go inside, drink a glass of cool water and lie down
  • to bring down your temperature by using a fan, placing a cool, wet cloth on your forehead and the back of your neck, or running cool water over your wrists.
  • that dizziness may also indicate a drop in blood sugar, so have a light snack such as a banana or a piece of toast.

Sporting activities and pregnancy

Certain sporting activities carry an increased risk to your unborn baby. Activities to avoid include:

  • Water-skiing – coming off the skis could force water into the vagina.
  • Scuba diving – the changes in blood gases may harm your baby. Snorkelling is fine and scuba diving to depths of less than 18 metres (60 feet) is reasonably safe, but check with your doctor first.
  • Saunas and hot tubs – raising your body temperature can harm your baby.
  • Horseback riding – the motion of horseback riding carries a risk of placental abruption (separating the placenta from the uterus). Falling from or being kicked by a horse carries a high risk of trauma to your baby, or even death.
  • High-altitude activities such as mountain climbing – at heights over 3,000 metres, the oxygen level in the air is low. This reduces the oxygen available to your baby. Pregnant women are also more vulnerable to developing altitude sickness.

Traveller’s diarrhoea and pregnancy

Be careful to avoid food poisoning, as certain infections can harm the baby or trigger miscarriage. Remember to:

  • Avoid food buffets, seafood, undercooked meats, soft cheeses and pâtés.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly after going to the toilet, before preparing food and before eating.
  • In developing nations, only eat fruit that you have peeled yourself. Avoid leafy greens and salads because they could have been washed in contaminated water.
  • Drink bottled water if you are unsure of the water supply. Use bottled water when brushing your teeth. Make sure that all eating utensils are thoroughly dried after washing.
  • Avoid ice.
  • If you must use the local water, boil the water thoroughly for five minutes before using.
  • Avoid treating unsafe water with iodine. If consumed over a few weeks, iodine can cause your unborn baby to develop a goitre (enlarged thyroid gland).

Medications to avoid during pregnancy

Pregnant women should be wary of taking medications of any kind. Some medications can pass to the baby through the placenta and cause birth defects or miscarriage.

  • Avoid taking any over-the-counter medication unless advised by your doctor, who knows you are pregnant.
  • Medications that are commonly used to treat traveller’s diarrhoea are dangerous during pregnancy.
  • Avoid alcohol.
  • Avoid using 'social' or 'recreational' drugs.

Where to get help

  • Your doctor
  • NURSE-ON-CALL Tel. 1300 60 60 24 – for expert health information and advice (24 hours, 7 days)

Things to remember

  • If you are pregnant, the safest time for you to travel is during the second trimester, provided you aren’t experiencing any complications.
  • If you are pregnant and considering travel, you must consult with your doctor, especially if your pregnancy is high risk.
  • Avoid travelling to developing nations during pregnancy.
  • Be wary of taking medications of any kind, including those commonly used to treat traveller’s diarrhoea.

  • Getting there by car, babycenter.com.au. More information here.
  • Pregnancy and overheating, 2011, netdoctor, More information here.
  • ‘Influenza’, 2013, The Australian Immunisation Handbook 10th Edition 2013, Australian Government Department of Health. More information here.
  • Reyes N, Grosse S, Grant A, Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More information here.

This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:

This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:

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Content disclaimer

Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 31-03-2015

Holidays and travel during pregnancy

Before planning a trip, be sure to consult a gynecologist whom you trust to manage your pregnancy. He will prescribe tests and ultrasound to exclude placental pathologies, anemia, gestosis and many other problems in which long-distance travel is not recommended. Bleeding and miscarriages in history are also on the list of contraindications. In addition, safety and comfort also depend on the gestational age.

IMPORTANT: CORONAVIRUS AND PREGNANCY

At the moment, there is no confirmed information that pregnant women are more or less susceptible to infection with COVID-19 coronavirus infection than others. However, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention* reminds that due to changes in the immune system and emotional state, pregnant women are generally more prone to viral respiratory diseases, so be sure to take all measures to protect yourself. First of all, avoid traveling to high-risk countries. So, for example, by decree of the Mayor of Moscow "On high alert mode", citizens arriving from Italy, Iran, Spain, France, Germany, South Korea and China must ensure home quarantine (self-isolation at home) for a period of 14 days and provide their contact information to hotline of the city of Moscow. In fact, the list of countries with coronavirus is longer. Recently, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Great Britain, Switzerland got into it - before making a decision on a trip, look for information about in which countries the coronavirus was found in reliable sources on the Internet, for example, on the WHO website or the official website of the Mayor of Moscow.

To prevent infection, pregnant women should take the same measures as everyone else: wash their hands more often and treat them with disinfectants, avoid crowded places, try not to touch your face, wear a mask or respirator in public places, minimize contacts, etc. ** There is not enough data yet to say for sure whether COVID-19 is transmitted from a pregnant woman to her child. But it is reported that at the moment there are no cases of transmission of the virus from an infected mother to the fetus during pregnancy, during or immediately after childbirth.

What is the best trimester to travel?

Traveling in the first trimester will not be a pleasant memory for every pregnant woman. Many are tormented by toxicosis, an acute reaction to stuffiness and odors, and increased fatigue. Any discomfort can be annoying - if you encounter this during the planning stage of your trip, consider alternative options. Also at an early stage, when the main organs and systems of the fetus are formed, pregnancy is most vulnerable. But it is important to understand that many women travel without problems in the early stages of pregnancy (in fact, some do not know about their situation), go on business trips, go to new places and have a great time there.

Weeks 14 to 27 are considered the safest and most comfortable time to travel if the mother-to-be is well. It is only important not to stay in the sun for a long time, not to abuse exotic food (especially those prepared from animal products without heat treatment), to avoid crowded resorts , on the territory of which intestinal and other infections are raging.

In the third trimester (from the 28th week) there are restrictions related to flights: Many airlines do not allow women on board if their pregnancy is 36 weeks or more, and even earlier in case of multiple pregnancies. Sometimes airlines even ask expectant mothers to provide certificates indicating the current gestational age. Starting from the 28th week, airline representatives have the right to ask you to present certificate that you are allowed to fly.

Another nuance is that childbirth on the territory of a foreign state can turn into difficulties when returning to your homeland. For example, a baby born in Greece automatically becomes a citizen of this country, and in order to travel with him, you will have to overcome many legal delays.

Choosing a place to rest

Good rest during pregnancy includes sleep, outdoor activities and good nutrition. So you can have a good and calm time in the nearest holiday homes, boarding houses, park hotels and eco-camps. Now many hotels offer special vacation programs for expectant mothers.

If you want not only to relax, but also to gain new impressions, you should choose the direction of travel according to its ecological and epidemiological situation, as well as the level of medicine. Don't forget to take out good travel insurance - take one that includes services for pregnant women (if you take out a policy online, make sure that it is designed for expectant mothers).

If you are purchasing a packaged tour, please note that the standard package does not usually cover maternity cases. Contact the tour operator to clarify the possibility of changing the terms of insurance.

Be sure to read the reviews on the Internet about medical care in the selected country - how quickly you can get help, how childbirth is in local maternity hospitals.

Which transport is preferable?

The main condition for traveling during pregnancy is the ability to get up and walk a little at any time. All types of transport (sometimes even tourist buses, but this is not for everybody) meet this criterion. But the train, and the plane, and the car have features that need to be taken into account.

  • Vehicle

The main convenience of this method of transportation is that you can stop at any time to warm up and quickly get to the nearest hospital or maternity hospital in case of unforeseen circumstances.

But there are also disadvantages - in the later stages it can be uncomfortable to sit in a chair even for half an hour in a row, besides, some pregnant women can get motion sickness in a car. Special pillows for the back and neck, comfortable air conditioning, as well as a seat belt adapter for pregnant women will facilitate the journey. It removes the load from the abdomen, does not press, does not rub and fixes firmly, ensuring safety.

  • Train

The train makes it possible to change position at least every five minutes - to sit, lie down, walk around. It is better to sit on the bottom shelf and take care of your personal hygiene to the maximum - take antibacterial gel and wipes, toilet pads, slippers, and a toothbrush with you. The negative aspects of traveling by rail are obvious - it is much slower than an airplane, and changing the route or making an unplanned situation, like by car, simply will not work.

  • Aircraft

The main advantages of traveling by plane are speed and safety. The cons relate mainly to health hazards and airline regulations.

If the doctor has approved the flight, this is only the first step to a successful trip. Although there is no scientific evidence that air travel increases the risk of preterm birth or has a negative effect on the fetus, airlines play it safe to avoid emergency landings and additional costs. As mentioned above, many airlines have strict rules for flying while pregnant. It is better to consult about the prohibitions on the carriage of pregnant women before buying a ticket from a tour operator or directly from the air carrier.

What should be considered before the holiday?

Make an appointment with your doctor one week before your holiday. Be sure to let us know where and how you want to go: doctors have life hacks in stock that you didn’t know about.

Specify which of the medicines can be taken during pregnancy if you become ill in transport, in the heat, in case of poisoning, cystitis, candidiasis or a cold; what first aid may be needed for standard ailments during pregnancy - swelling, pulling pains in the abdomen, headache, heartburn.

In addition to the basic documents, ask the doctor for your exchange card with the results of tests and examinations (if you are seen in a private clinic, you will most likely have a duplicate in your hands). If you are flying abroad and understand that at some point you may need to consult local doctors, take translations of your most important medical documents with you.

Take snacks and plenty of water on the transport, and do not go out into the sun without sunscreen - this rule applies not only to pregnant women, but also to their relatives! It is better to relax on the beach before 11 am and after 5 pm, when the heat begins to subside. Choose clothes made from natural fabrics and comfortable shoes. Minimize the risks and enjoy your vacation!

*US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Frequently Asked Questions: COVID-19 and pregnancy.
** Rospotrebnadzor in the mountains. Moscow. On recommendations to citizens on the prevention of a new coronavirus infection

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© Nutriclub, 2020

Flying on vacation while pregnant.

Rules, recommendations, tips

ATOR Bulletin, with the help of gynecologists and insurers, has compiled a set of the most important tips and recommendations that pregnant women will need when planning, preparing, flying and staying on a summer beach holiday - from choosing insurance to safe tanning rules and nutrition.

Details and nuances of organizing a summer vacation during pregnancy were told to Vestnik ATOR by:

Natalya Badikova , obstetrician-gynecologist with 13 years of experience, urogynecologist, candidate of medical sciences

Yulia Alcheeva , Executive Director of ERV insurance company, the largest player in the monotourism insurance market in Russia.

From our review you will find out:

  • At what period of pregnancy can you fly on vacation, and when is it better to stay at home
  • Until what week of pregnancy can you fly on vacation abroad
  • Which insurance to choose for pregnant women
  • What a pregnant woman needs to do before her vacation and what documents to take
  • What are the symptoms of a pregnant woman better to postpone the trip
  • Plane, car, train - which is safer for pregnant women?
  • Is it possible for pregnant women to pass the scanner during security screening at the airport
  • Air travel during pregnancy: how to behave and what to take with you
  • Which country to choose for a beach holiday during pregnancy
  • How to sunbathe during pregnancy
  • Where it is safe to swim while pregnant - sea or swimming pool
  • How to eat while pregnant on vacation
  • What to do if you find out you are pregnant while on vacation

I.

PLANNING A PREGNANCY HOLIDAY

WHEN PREGNANT WOMAN CAN GO ON HOLIDAY AND WHEN IT IS BETTER TO STAY AT HOME

during pregnancy, exclude pathological conditions.

To eliminate the risks of early booking, pregnant women should always take extended insurance when buying a tour - with the trip cancellation insurance option included. If you found out about pregnancy after buying the tour, you should purchase such insurance separately, as well as special medical insurance (but more on that later).

According to doctors and insurers, if there are no medical contraindications, it is best to go on a beach vacation with air travel in the second trimester of pregnancy, with some restrictions - in the first and first half of the third trimester (up to 31 weeks)

“The gestation period is from 14 weeks to 23 weeks, according to medical practice, the most “calm” and relatively safe period for flights and any travel,” says Natalya Badikova, obstetrician-gynecologist.

Pregnancy from 14 weeks to 23 weeks, according to medical practice, the most "calm" and relatively safe period for flights and any travel

According to doctors, it's not just that before the 12th week, pregnant women often experience toxicosis, which manifests itself in fatigue, nausea, poor health, changes in taste preferences, etc., which, of course, does not contribute to a peaceful rest. But also in the fact that until the 14th week inclusive, in the body of a woman there is an intensive main "laying" of all the systems and organs of the baby - and it is important not to interfere with her. In addition, in Russia, the most important screening during pregnancy is performed just at the end of the first trimester - from 11 to 14 weeks. This screening includes specialized ultrasound diagnostics, calculation of the individual risk of having a child with a chromosomal pathology, and a number of other complex studies. It is highly undesirable to miss it, so traveling far from the place of medical observation from the 11th to the 14th week of pregnancy is best excluded altogether.

The same rule applies to 18-21 weeks - at this time, pregnant women undergo a second screening (perinatal diagnosis of fetal anomalies, a very important study), so you need to be within reach of the clinic where it is carried out and plan the start and end dates correctly tour so as to have time to pass this examination.

TILL WHAT WEEKS OF PREGNANCY CAN YOU GO ON A VACATION ABROAD PREGNANCY

Note that the third trimester of pregnancy is generally not recommended for travel with air travel and climate change. In particular, doctors consider it highly undesirable to fly on vacation from the 28th week of pregnancy until childbirth if:

  • aggravated obstetric and gynecological history (earlier termination of pregnancy, miscarriages, miscarriages, serious gynecological diseases, etc.)
  • there are serious somatic comorbidities, including autoimmune diseases
  • we are talking about a multiple pregnancy (twins or triplets).

However, if the pregnancy proceeds normally, without complications, then the tourist can go on a beach holiday abroad, but so that it ends no later than 31 weeks of pregnancy.

Why this period? The point is not only the increased risk at this stage, but also the fact that all special insurance products existing in Russia with options for pregnant women provide insurance coverage for medical expenses for pregnant women only up to 31 weeks as a maximum. Therefore, all trips of pregnant women, starting from the 32nd week, will not be insured by any insurance company. There are simply no such policies - which means that complications or premature births abroad threaten with huge amounts billed for treatment.

After 32 weeks, both doctors and insurers give good advice to everyone: do not travel abroad, unless it is about some difficult life situations. This advice should be taken very seriously. The statistics of the largest travel insurer, ERV, are disappointing: 9 out of 10 women who seek medical assistance abroad for pregnancy complications lose a child.

Finally, let's recall one more factor. At a gestational age of 30-34 weeks, ultrasound is performed at the place of observation of a pregnant woman. That is, during this period it is also better to be within the reach of the health facility, where pregnancy monitoring takes place.

WHICH INSURANCE TO CHOOSE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN

“The first thing tourists should understand is that pregnant women traveling abroad need special and separate insurance with options specifically for pregnant women. No basic insurance policy on the market that comes "by default" in a regular tour package covers any risks of pregnancy complications at 12-31 weeks. In this case, the tourist must ask a travel agent or take out additional insurance under a special program himself, ”says the executive director of the ERV insurance company.

Pregnant women traveling abroad need special and separate insurance with options specifically for pregnant women - this is not the same insurance that is already included in the tour package

The vast majority of Russian insurance companies do not include the risks of pregnancy complications up to 12 weeks into their basic programs. The only exception on the market is ERV insurance, which even in the “basic” version recognizes pregnancy complications for up to 12 weeks as an insured event, since there is a possibility that the insured might not have known about her pregnancy in the early stages.

Insurance products for pregnant women, starting from 12-13 weeks, are available in the range of all major players in the insurance market, the tourist can choose such insurance according to the set of options, the amount of insurance coverage or price.

As for insurances that cover risks up to 31 weeks of pregnancy (this is the maximum period), there are relatively few of them. The most “complete” insurance is again with ERV (Optima tariff): in addition to the period up to 31 weeks inclusive, the coverage here includes medical expenses not only for women, but also 10 thousand euros for nursing a child in a medical institution in case of premature birth (other companies cover mother's medical expenses only). This amount is enough for long-term care of the baby using special equipment in Europe or Turkey.

And of course, the insurance must necessarily include the option “cancellation of the trip” (in everyday life this is also called “non-departure insurance”). The condition of a pregnant woman changes, and it may happen that right before the trip she will have contraindications to the flight. It is important to remember that if a tourist flies with her husband, children, or other relatives, then they will all receive the full amount of the entire tour only if the “insurance against non-departure” is issued for all of them (and not just for the pregnant woman herself).

WHAT SHOULD A PREGNANT WOMAN NEED TO DO BEFORE HOLIDAY AND WHAT DOCUMENTS TO TAKE

Before the trip (3-7 days in advance) it is necessary to visit a general practitioner and the attending gynecologist, get a consultation and, if necessary, undergo the prescribed tests and procedures.

You need to ask the doctor to issue a certificate for the airline about the duration of pregnancy and the absence of medical contraindications (without it, if there are external signs of pregnancy, some air carriers may not allow you to board the aircraft).

“In addition to insurance, travel documents and passports, you should also take an exchange card - especially if you are going to Russia. For the convenience and peace of mind of the vacationer, you can also take an extract from the attending physician with your medical history, appointments, the results of the last ultrasound, screening, etc., and translate them, if not into the language of the host country, then at least into English, ”advises the doctor gynecologist Natalya Badikova.

It would also be nice if the attending physician could be in touch with the tourist during the holidays. Modern telemedicine services allow this. For example, before traveling, you can check with your doctor if he consults remotely in a special application, or purchase a subscription to several telemedicine consultations from a trusted telemedicine operator. By the way, gynecologists also consult remotely.

WHAT SYMPTOMS OF A PREGNANT WOMEN IT IS BETTER TO POSTPONE A TRIP

“Drawing pains in the lower abdomen in the first trimester of pregnancy, pulling, cramping pains or tension (false and true contractions) – in the second and third trimester of pregnancy before a trip – an alarm call. These are unconditional reasons for immediate medical attention. Brownish spotting or, moreover, scarlet spotting at any stage of pregnancy, watery - in the second and third trimester - is also a reason to immediately consult a doctor, and not go to the airport, ”says Natalya Badikova.

Among other "bad" signs that indicate the need for prompt consultation of a tourist with a doctor is a sharp headache accompanied by tinnitus. This may be the first signs of preeclampsia or preeclampsia. Reasons to postpone a trip for a pregnant woman are vomiting, diarrhea, as well as exacerbation of concomitant diseases.

In order for a pregnant woman to painlessly cancel a trip for health reasons and not lose money, when buying a tour or separately (but maximum 5 days before departure), you need to take out travel insurance for all tour participants, which we have already talked about. As a rule, its cost is 5% of the total tour.

II. AIR TRAVELING IN PREGNANCY

PLANE, CAR, TRAIN – WHICH IS SAFE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN?

Contrary to popular belief, the plane is not the most "risky" mode of transport for pregnant women.

“Many people think that the safest way for pregnant women to travel is by car because you can stop wherever you want. But it's not. The way it shakes in a car, it doesn't shake anywhere, even on a train. Bumps, sudden braking, emergency situations on the road - all this has a very negative effect on the state of pregnancy. Plus, prolonged physical inactivity, motion sickness, the smell of gasoline - this can trigger a cascade of pathological reactions, ”says Dr. Badikova.

As for the train, if it is a comfortable express, and especially if the journey is not long (3-4 hours, "Sapsan"), then it is quite possible to consider it. You can also consider the new double-decker express trains "Moscow-Sochi". In other cases, especially if the train is old, with age-appropriate bathrooms, doctors recommend considering an airplane instead of a train.

IS IT POSSIBLE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN TO PASS THE SCANNER WHEN INSPECTION AT THE AIRPORT

Only X-ray devices are dangerous - therefore, you should find out what type of scanner is at the airport. If there is a corresponding icon on the device, then you should present a certificate of pregnancy to the airport employee and go through other screening procedures.

However, modern devices at airports are not dangerous for pregnant women. “Modern airport scanners use a low-frequency electromagnetic field. This is not ionizing radiation, there is no harm to the body of the pregnant woman and the baby from him, as well as from ultrasound, ”says Natalya Badikova.

AIR FLIGHT IN PREGNANCY: HOW TO BE AND WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU

Air travel also has its own factors that can negatively affect the health of pregnant women. There are risks, but if the pregnant woman feels well, and the doctors have no objection to the vacation, you can fly.

Firstly, these are changes in blood pressure during takeoff and landing. This is usually fought by creating a state of rest (you need to take a special pillow with an adjustable boost, disposable ear plugs, an eye mask for the flight), and drinking plenty of water (plain water without gas). You can easily buy water at the airport after crossing the border. It is also a good idea to take a bar of dark chocolate with you on a flight (in case of pressure drops and just for a snack).

Secondly, this is hypodynamia and a long stay in a sitting position, so pregnant women should, if possible, choose destinations for recreation with a short flight (3-5 hours) during this period of their lives

Pregnant women should, if possible, choose holiday destinations during this period of their lives with a short flight (3-5 hours)

Why? “Long stay in a sitting position leads to congestion in the pelvis. This can disrupt blood flow in the pelvic organs, including the uterus, and cause changes in bowel function. Swollen intestinal loops can put pressure on the uterus, this can cause hypertonicity, which, in some cases, can cause abortion, ”explains Natalia Badikova. How to deal with this risk? It's simple: during the flight, you should try to walk around the cabin more often, get up, change the position of the body, do light gymnastics for the legs and arms.

A pregnant woman should not forget to take hygiene products (wet wipes, disposable pads, etc.), micellar water (no more than 100 ml to be allowed on the plane) with her on the flight (in hand luggage) - to moisturize the skin during the flight, a set of drugs (if the drugs are rare and prescription, it is better to take a prescription for them, sometimes with a notarized translation - in order to avoid difficulties at the border).

Pregnant women should also take care of compression stockings during the flight. These must be stockings or stockings (compression class must be determined by the attending physician). In the second and third trimester, a prenatal bandage should be worn for flying. During the flight, a woman should wear cotton underwear and a bra with wide straps.

During the flight, it is better for pregnant women to wear comfortable shoes - light, breathable moccasins or slippers.

III. PREGNANCY BEACH HOLIDAY

WHICH COUNTRY TO CHOOSE FOR A PREGNANCY BEACH HOLIDAY

The list of such countries is determined by a combination of three main factors. Firstly, as we have already said, these should be destinations with a short flight (up to 5 hours as a maximum).

Secondly, it should be Russia or foreign non-exotic countries with a relatively temperate climate and a diet adapted to our cuisine. Countries with excessively hot climates and exotic cuisine should be avoided.

“Water and food that is not typical for our diet, for example, in the countries of South and Central America, Southeast Asia, can provoke toxicosis of pregnant women in the first trimester, even if you do not have it. It is also provoked by heat. The fact is that hypoglycemia (lack of glucose) can serve as an impetus for the development of toxicosis in pregnant women. And it occurs in hot climates due to increased evaporation of moisture from the skin, heavy drinking and, as a result, lack of appetite and long intervals in eating,” says Dr. Badikova.

Doctors advise pregnant women to choose for a beach vacation those countries where the average daily (attention - not daily, but average daily) temperature in the place and during the rest period does not exceed 30. 5 degrees Celsius.

Pregnant women should choose for a beach holiday those countries where the average daily (not daily, but average daily) temperature during the holidays does not exceed 30.5 degrees Celsius

Definitely, pregnant women should not choose countries where there is a risk of infection with giardiasis infections, and in general with infectious diseases (Japanese encephalitis, Dengue fever, Zika, etc.). It should be clearly excluded from visiting countries in which it is recommended to be vaccinated in advance (the list can be found on the website of Rospotrebnadzor). Doctors strongly recommend that pregnant women not be vaccinated against any diseases - this can be fatal for the child, since any vaccine passes through the placental barrier.

Thirdly, besides the climate and food, pregnant women should take into account one more factor when choosing a vacation destination: the availability and level of medicine in the country and in the hotel. Preference during pregnancy should be given to countries with developed medicine (at least in resorts), and when choosing a hotel, you should ask the travel agent if there is a doctor in the hotel (as a rule, he happens in high-level hotels).

The choice of a pregnant woman in the first and second trimester, therefore, comes down to the following list of destinations: Russia, worthy hotels in Turkey, Spain, Italy, Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Slovenia, Czech Republic. You can also go to the countries of the Persian Gulf (preferably to the developed emirates of the UAE - Dubai and Abu Dhabi, or to Qatar), and carefully choosing a hotel, preferring high-level ones.

The countries of Equatorial Africa, South-East Asia and the Americas should be excluded from your list during pregnancy due to the long flight, hot climate, unusual cuisine, the risk of infectious diseases, and in some cases the need for vaccinations.

HOW TO BATH WHEN PREGNANT

All is well, and the pregnant tourist is at a beach resort. Summer and the beach mean the sun, and here the doctors also have their advice. The sun, of course, brings positive to the pregnant woman (more endorphins are released), replenishes the vitamin D deficiency, which is typical for residents of northern countries.

Firstly, exposure to the sun and even swimming in the sea (due to the reflection of the sun's rays from the water surface) should be avoided by pregnant women from 12.00 to 16.00.

Secondly, and the rest of the time you need to be careful about protection from sunlight. “During pregnancy, a woman often has hyperpigmentation. Taking into account being in the sun during the holidays, there is a very high probability that age spots, freckles that appeared during pregnancy on exposed parts of the body will not disappear. Therefore, a pregnant woman needs to take sun protection with her on vacation, with a protection factor of at least 50 - more is better. It is desirable that such a product contains vitamin E. And immediately after exposure to the sun, you need to apply a special after-sun product, it will additionally moisturize the skin, ”says Natalya Badikova.

Pregnant women should take sun protection with a protection factor of at least 50, preferably more. It is desirable that the composition contains vitamin E

In particular, physicians consider such lines of protective equipment as Sanosan, Lierak, Uriage, from budget ones, for example, Garnier, to be well-established means. But everything is individual, and in choosing the brand and, most importantly, the composition of the product, it is better to follow the advice of the attending gynecologist.

Gynecologists strongly recommend tourists to take a closed swimsuit to the beach, excluding direct sunlight on the abdomen. “It will also be very good to take a cap with a large visor or a hat with a brim - to exclude sun exposure on the face, since the risks of age spots in pregnant women are very high,” advises Dr. Natalya Badikova.

WHERE IT IS SAFE TO BATH FOR A PREGNANT WOMAN - SEA OR POOL

Pregnant women can safely swim in the sea if it is warm and comfortable for the woman. The duration of stay in it is until the first moment when the pregnant woman feels “chillness”. Another tip - pregnant women should not stay in a wet bathing suit for a long time. At the first uncomfortable sensations, it is better to change clothes, and therefore take more than one set with you.

At the same time, experts say, the sea for pregnant women is definitely preferable to the pool.

“Excessively chlorinated water in some pools can lead to changes in the microflora of the vagina, and eventually to bacterial vaginosis or inflammation of this area,” says Natalya Badikova. After the pool, it is also better for a pregnant woman to make an external (only external!) Treatment of intimate places with Miramistin or similar means.

HOW TO EAT FOR A PREGNANT WOMAN ON HOLIDAY

It is better to leave the diet in the hotel the same, close to the set of products that a woman eats at home, doctors say. The advice is feasible, especially with the all-inclusive system - the buffet at the hotel allows you to choose almost any type of food.

However, there are restrictions: for example, any carbonated drinks should be excluded, it is better to drink black tea instead of green tea. And any exotic products for us, including southern fruits and vegetables, should be added to the diet gradually, in small portions, starting from 3-4 days of vacation.

“You shouldn't eat more than two unusual fruits a day (for example, mango). If we are talking about freshly squeezed juices, then this is a replacement for fruits (or fruits - or juices from them). Such juices should be drunk strictly after meals, not on an empty stomach, in order to avoid increased secretion of hydrochloric acid and heartburn, ”explains doctor Badikova.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND OUT YOUR PREGNANCY DURING VACATION

A tourist found out about her pregnancy while on vacation and she has to fly back. It happens. If there are no disturbing moments (bleeding, pain, etc.) - you do not need to contact a local doctor. What should be done during this period?

Doctors advise in this case to immediately change the diet to a more fractional one, exclude alcohol, coffee, smoking (if there is such a habit), include more meat, fish, chicken in the diet.

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