Contents
Traveling pregnant: all you need to know
What is the most suitable period?
“The closer you get to the term, the more there is a risk of sudden labor”, underlines Benoît Le Goëdec, liberal midwife in Paris. Also, from 37 weeks of pregnancy, it is advisable to limit yourself to short trips, not very far. The best period is when the pregnancy is well established, that is to say during the 2nd trimester. Because the fatigue and nausea at the beginning are gone, and the fears of miscarriage have gradually dissipated. And we are still far from the mobility difficulties of the 3rd quarter!
Until when can I fly? What are the precautions?
There is no precise limit identical to all companies. These can set their own limit for pregnancy, often the last month. They require at least a medical certificate, which states that the pregnancy does not present any contraindication. Wearing compression stockings is imperative, especially over medium and long haul, to limit the risk of thromboembolism. Move, walk and hydrate!
I’m leaving by car: how can I avoid suffering too much?
A car trip during pregnancy requires regular stops. The pelvis considerably absorbs the vibrations of the car, which can cause small contractions. And prolonged sitting is not ideal for the back. We recommend stopping every 2 hours for at least 20 minutes. It’s about taking a real break, relaxing, walking, stretching. And of course, we hand the wheel over to someone else!
I plan to go to an endemic area where viruses are circulating. What are the risks ?
Overall, it is advisable to postpone your trip if you have to go to an area where viruses such as Zika, dengue, chikungunya or malaria are present. Before embarking on a trip to an endemic area, check with your doctor and the, who can tell you how the virus is rampant in the country. Because if a vaccine is recommended but not mandatory, and the endemic is very low, it is not necessarily a problem, especially if you plan to stay at a hotel.
What should I take in my suitcase?
If you are going to Europe, ask for a European Health Insurance Card, at least 15 days before departure. It will allow you to assert your rights to health insurance and simplify your on-site care in the event of hospitalization. Also plan repatriation insurance, especially for a long stay. And don’t forget your pregnancy medical record.