Travel Tips to Follow During The First Trimester of Your Pregnancy

Travel during the first trimester of pregnancy is usually considered safe. However, some pregnant women prefer not to travel and put too much stress on their bodies in the first trimester. Moreover, pregnancy symptoms like nausea and constant exhaustion during the early stages of the pregnancy often keep women from travelling.

It's true that travel during the first trimester causes increased discomfort to pregnant women, especially compared to travel during the second trimester. But apart from nausea, fatigue, and a general feeling of uneasiness, travel during this time shouldn't be much of a hassle.

Many consider that travel during early pregnancy can lead to an increased risk of a miscarriage, studies have shown that there is no conclusive evidence linking travel during the first trimester and miscarriage. Again, as each woman is different, we recommend that you check in with your doctor before any travel and take all personal precautions that he/she might suggest.

6 Safe Travel Tips to Follow During the First Trimester of Pregnancy

There are a number of precautions that you can take before travel to ensure that you travel risk-free, stress-free, and maximize your comfort:

1. Aisle seats to go

If you’re travelling by plane, you should go for an aisle seat, which will allow easy access to the washroom in case of nausea or vomiting, allows you to walk around, and stretch your legs, which will prevent feelings of suffocation and blood clots in your legs.

2. Road trip for two

If you are travelling by car, be sure to travel with a co-passenger who can drive as well to prevent fatigue during the travel. You should also take frequent car stops because it is important to get out of the car and get some gentle exercise like walking to promote blood flow in your body.

3. Seatbelts to the rescue

Always wear a seatbelt, regardless if you’re in a car or a plane, to lower the risk of trauma during turbulence. You and your baby are extremely vulnerable during the first trimester and a jolt or shock may cause injury or harm to either of you. So, it's best to always wear a seatbelt.

4. Eat light to travel right

Bloating, gas, acidity and heartburn are common pregnancy hormones women have to deal with during pregnancy. You should try to eat lightly before your start your journey, especially if it's a long one. Also, make sure not to consume a full meal just before or during your travel as this can help prevent the build-up of gas and acidity.

5. Stay hydrated

You may avoid drinking water during travels usually but now that you're pregnant, staying hydrated is extremely important for you. Try to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration as it causes nausea and headaches. It will also help relieve any bloating, gas or heartburn you might be feeling.

6. Contingency planning

Surely, you don't plan on vomiting during your journey. So, if you are experiencing particularly strong pregnancy-related headaches and nausea, discuss an anti-nausea medication and natural alternatives like ginger with your doctor. It's best to carry some preventive medicines with you to have a safe trip.

Closing Thoughts

Before you plan any trips or long journeys, you must consult your doctor. Your doctor may advise you to stay at home or delay your plans for a while depending on your condition. It is recommended that you get an all-clear from your medical practitioner before travelling during any stage of your pregnancy. If you're good to go, remember to keep the above-mentioned tips in your mind to keep yourself and your baby safe.