Travelling During the First Trimester
By: Tsou JinyeuTotal Views: 918, Word Count: 577,
The first trimester of your pregnancy is a very sensitive stage because there are risks of a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. Hence, most women prefer to avoid travelling during their first trimester. However, it is always advisable to discuss your travel plans if any, with your doctor or midwife. Only if she has given you the green signal then you can go ahead with your travel plans.
During the first trimester, most women experience nausea and fatigue hence, making it difficult to travel. If possible try to postpone your travel plans to some other time. If you cannot then here are some tips to keep in mind while travelling during the first trimester.
Travel by Air
Air travel is a bit risky, if the air pressure on the flight is not adjusted. As the altitude increases the amount of the oxygen in the air decreases, which may leave you with a shortage of oxygen supply. These days commercial airlines have the air pressure adjusted and hence there is no need to worry.
Take an aisle seat if travelling by air as you can have a clear access to the bathroom. Also keep a sick bag with you in case you feel like throwing up. It is better to take your own food or snacks for the flight journey in case you are badly suffering from nausea and if you do not have an appetite for airline food. It is also important to keep yourself hydrated and hence drink lots of water and juices. Take small walks during the flight to avoid swelling of the feet.
Travel by car
It is advisable to avoid long-distance journeys by car during the first trimester, because you may feel tired and dizzy. Also if you are suffering from nausea, the road journey may seem an ordeal.
Go with a companion if travelling by car. Keep hydrated and snacking on healthy, energy boosting snacks such as nuts and fruits. If you feel very tired or dizzy take a break and breathe in some fresh air.
Keep the car ventilated with fresh air by drawing down the windows - this will help reduce nausea. Take out any air fresheners if in the car, as this can make nausea worse.
Wear a seatbelt at all time, this will protect you and the baby lest there is a car crash.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations that are given to immunize a person from dangerous diseases are usually not recommended for a pregnant woman, as there is a risk of harming the baby. Therefore, avoid travelling to countries where there is a high risk of contracting a dangerous disease.
If you still decide to travel to a country where you would require immunization, then you will need to discuss your options with your health care provider.
Food and drink while travelling
While travelling, make sure you drink clean water or bottled water to be on the safe side. Avoid drinking tap water. This is important because most of treatments for stomach pain, gastroenteritis and diarrhea are not good to consume during pregnancy.
Avoid drinking drinks that contain ice cubes, because the ice cubes may not be made from clean and purified water. Try avoiding foods that are raw such as salads, unpeeled fruits and vegetables. Also be careful while eating meat, it shouldn’t be undercooked.
These are some tips which you can follow while travelling during your first trimester.
About the Author
Dr Tsou Jinyeu is a well known gynecologist and has been in this field since 1995. His special interests are – genetic and birth defects, high risk obstetrics, lupus in pregnancy, premature labour, premature delivery, triplets and ultrasound diagnosis. He is graduated from the University Of Illinois College Of Medicine. Nowdays he is working as a medical doctor at Elmhurst Loyola Center for Health.
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