Q: Is it ok to travel while I’m pregnant?
Answer from Dr. Larry L. Veltman, medical director of obstetrics and gynecology at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center: In general, it is safe to travel up to the beginning of the 9th month (or 36th week) of pregnancy. After that, I would recommend that it is best to stay within an hour’s drive of your hospital.
There are some risks associated with long flights. In particular, the increased activity of the blood clotting system in pregnant women puts you at an increased risk for developing blood clots in the veins of your legs. Physical activity and good hydration reduce this risk, so it’s important to drink plenty of fluids and get up and walk around every hour or so when flying.
The risk of blood clots isn’t as high when traveling by car, but sitting for uninterrupted, long periods of time is still not advised. It is a good idea to stop the car at least once an hour and get 5 minutes of moderate exercise.
Finally, it’s best to limit travel to locations where the food and drinking water is reliably safe, and to where good medical care can be found if necessary.
If you have any known problems or complications associated with your pregnancy, be sure to talk with your physician before planning any trip. Travel may not be advisable under these circumstances.
For more information:
  Browse our experts' answers to reader questions on other health topics.
Last updated: July 2003
|
