Pregnancy and vacation can mix easily, and even travel by air shouldn't be a problem, as long as you follow a few tips from Doc Holiday.

Most women can safely travel during pregnancy. With a little extra planning and precaution you should not encounter any problems. Just make sure your caregiver is aware of your travel plans beforehand.

Tips for Safe Vacationing When You Are Pregnant

If possible, you should not travel alone.

The most common obstetrical emergencies happen in the first and third trimesters, so the second trimester is the best time to travel.

Enjoy yourself, but be careful when doing new types of physical activities. Pregnancy changes a woman’s balance and her coordination is not as good. Walking and low-risk physical activities are usually fine to participate in and enjoy.

Always keep yourself well hydrated during the day, but avoid tap water and ice cubes in foreign countries, and drink only bottled water. Increased activities can cause dehydration which can cause your uterus to contract and may mean a trip to a hospital far from home.

Do not go into the ocean, as this can increase your risk for both vaginal and womb infection which could result in a premature delivery.

Always locate a hospital or medical center that cares for pregnant women near where you are staying.

Check with your health insurance company to make sure you are covered if you should need care at your destination.

Remember to bring along all the medications you are taking and a copy of your medical records in case you require any care.

Wear flat, comfortable shoes.

Get plenty of rest.

Tips for Travel During Pregnancy

Air travel is safe for most women up to 34 weeks of pregnancy.

Each airline has specific rules as it relates to air travel during pregnancy, so check with the carrier beforehand. Some airlines require a letter from your doctor stating how many weeks pregnant you are at the time of your trip. Second or third trimester vaginal bleeding, premature labor, pregnancy-induced high blood pressure, type 1 or type 2 diabetes, sickle cell anemia (or trait), and multiple gestation are some reasons that air flight might not be permitted.

Always use your seat belt below your belly when seated.

If you get nauseous when flying, driving or at sea, anti-nausea medications are suggested. They are safe to take during pregnancy.

Drink plenty of fluids before you leave, and throughout your trip. Do not drink lots of carbonated beverages, as this can increase the chance of nausea.

Wear thigh-high support stockings. This will reduce the risk of fluid accumulation in your legs and feet, and reduce the risk of blood clots forming in the legs.

Get up and walk around once every hour.

Relax and enjoy yourself.

Dr. Charles Hux completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology and a fellowship in maternal-fetal medicine at Thomas Jefferson University. He received a master’s degree in genetics from Rutgers University. He maintains a private practice and is primarily affiliated with Monmouth Medical Center. His articles have appeared in American Journal of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Prenatal Diagnosis, New England Journal of Medicine and Genetics. He is the author of the new book, Nine Healthy Months.