Travel safely while pregnant

By car or by plane, you'll want to stay healthy and comfortable when traveling during pregnancy. Here's how to do that.

Get the OK
Talk to your doctor before traveling, especially if you have any complications, such as high blood pressure, or if you're at risk for premature labor. Also, if you are traveling to another country, your doctor can let you know if you need any vaccines or might need to take other special precautions.

Time it right
You'll likely be most comfortable, energetic and mobile during your second trimester, so plan any big trips during that time, if you can. If you're flying, check with the airline about its policy on flying when pregnant. Most allow flying up until the last few weeks of pregnancy, but it's best to double-check.

Fly in comfort
On longer flights, try to get up and walk around about every 30 minutes or so. See if you can sit in a bulkhead row, which will allow for the most leg room. Or opt for a seat over the wing in the midsection of the plane for the smoothest ride.

Drive safely
Wear your seat belt at all times. Try not to drive more than about five or six hours per day. And stop often to walk around and stretch your legs.

Energize and hydrate
No matter how you travel, take time for small, regular meals. That will help keep your energy up.

Have questions?
Campbell County Clinics—OB GYN Specialists encourages you to speak with your doctor if you have questions regarding pregnancy and traveling. Visit ccmh.net/OBGYN to schedule an appointment.

Sources: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention