Traveling while pregnant.
A cruise ship vacation, with all the comforts of home, is the ideal travel choice for the healthy pregnant woman.
Cruise lines each set their own policies regarding pregnant passengers, however as a general rule they allow travel up to the 24th week of pregnancy. When it comes to enforcement, most cruise lines rely on the honor system. After all, you surely do not want to give birth on a cruise ship, which is not equipped with the medical supplies or expertise to deliver or care for newborns. We recommend getting a "permission-to-travel" letter from your doctor, stating you are fit to travel and your pregnancy is not further along than the cruise line permits. In fact, some cruise lines will require it. Be sure to speak with your travel agent or the cruise line's customer service department for details.
Here are some tips for making your cruise, and traveling to get to your departure point, a pleasant and uneventful experience:
Talk to your doctor or midwife
A cruise is the ideal vacation for a woman who has a healthy, active pregnancy. Rest and relaxation, sea air and sunshine, good food and mild activity may be just what the doctor ordered. But if you have a high risk pregnancy, if you suffer from morning sickness, are prone to seasickness, have other medical concerns, or need prenatal testing and doctor visits, then travel may not be wise before your baby is born.
Unfortunately the best time to travel while pregnant is also when mom-to-be has a full schedule of doctor visits, lab work, and ultrasound tests. Depending on the results there may be follow ups and additional procedures.
So be sure to talk to your health care professional and obtain a "permission-to-travel" letter, before booking that cruise - and remember to go over your prenatal testing needs to work that schedule around your vacation dates.
Bring your medical records
We hope for the best and prepare for the worst. There are several health care forms available online that you can fill out with all of your general medical information, such as this free printable form from emedtools.com. Ask your obstetrician or midwife for a copy of your medical records, especially your due date, date of last menstrual period, blood type, the results of any tests you have had, and information about prior pregnancies. Be sure to bring emergency contact numbers for relatives in case of emergency, and a copy of your living will or health care surrogate form. If you are planning on an extended visit, have your healthcare provider supply you with a list for check-ups or emergencies in your vacation destination.
Review your health insurance policy
Many health insurance policies only cover you in your home area. If you travel outside of that area and experience complications due to your pregnancy, you may not be covered. So be sure to review your policy and if necessary call your HR department at work or call the insurance company directly to inquire about travel coverage. If you are not covered there are additional policies available that cover health care for existing conditions while traveling.
Bring your medications and prenatal vitamins
You'll want to be sure to bring along a full supply of any prescription and over the counter medications you take regularly, including pre-natal vitamins. In fact, take a few extra, you never know when a pill will fall into the sink or roll away on the floor. Keep your medications in their original container with the prescription information, dosage, prescribing doctor and pharmacy information on the label, and pack them away in your purse or a bag that you carry on with you. That way, in the rare chance your luggage is lost, you will not suffer the loss of your medications during this delicate time as well.
Purchase travel insurance
Be sure to purchase travel insurance for yourself and your traveling companions. Travel insurance covers expenses if you need emergency care or miss all or part of your trip. Get a policy that coveres pregnancy and delivery and neonatal care if necessary, and will cover the costs of emergency transport home for yourself and those traveling with you.
If parts of your vacation include air travel, or you are traveling by car, make sure you purchase whatever additional coverage you need. Joining AAA or another road service prior to a trip is a good idea as they will cover automotive breakdowns and repairs and emergency lodging.
Be prepared for emergencies
Air Travel
First, consult your health care professional if you plan to travel by air. Short trips are usually not a problem but international and cross country flights where your movement is restricted for many hours may not be advisable. Sitting for long periods can make your feet and ankles swell and your legs cramp.
Commercial airlines do not restrict pregnant passengers until the 36th week. Like cruise lines, airlines rely on an "honor policy". The documentation you are carrying for the cruise line will fall well within the guidelines for air travel as well.
Tell the ticket agent that you are expecting, and how far along you are, when you book your seat. Be sure to request an aisle seat so those frequent trips to the bathroom are easy to navigate.
Traveling by Car
Sitting for long periods can be uncomfortable when you are pregnant, especially in hot weather when fluids tend to build up and circulation slows. Swollen ankles and feet, puffy hands and face, leg cramps, general stiffness, and discomfort from seat belts is common.
Wear non-binding, comfortable clothes. Dress in layers so you can remove items and keep cool. Do not wear stockings or socks. Bring slippers and wear them or go barefoot instead of shoes when you are not driving. Push your seat back as far as possible, and flex your legs and ankles often to improve the circulation. Stretch out, rotate your ankles, and flex your toes. Take frequent potty breaks and walk around for a few minutes.
Keep yourself well hydrated while in the car. Bottled water and healthy snacks will keep away hunger pangs. Nap if possible. Keep a neck pillow and light wrap in the car, and bring along some ear plugs. Waterproof bags and premoistened towelettes are a wise idea. Even women who have not experienced morning sickness may find the motion of the car upsetting. Don't forget a light body lotion. Cars and planes can dry the skin.
