Is it Safe to Travel During the Third Trimester of Pregnancy?

The safest period to travel when pregnant is considered to be the second trimester. The mother is at lowest risk of miscarriage and morning sickness has vanished. The third trimester does not pose many problems either. Women should keep in mind that they can travel upto 36 weeks into pregnancy but certain cautions are necessary.

Mode of Travel

If you are on a bus make sure there are seat belts available. The same applies for cars. The idea is to minimise constant shaking. If you are in a train it is best carry extra blankets to sit under. These will work as shock absorbers. Airplanes are safe so long you keep the seat belt on during turbulence. Even when inside the washroom hold onto the handle bars to keep yourself steady.

Premature Labour

If you are under observation for premature labour the obstetrician is unlikely to let you travel. Being in premature labour does not mean that premature caesareans cannot be planned in advance. However, since your cervix is at risk of opening without contractions as well you should not travel.

Placenta Previa

Unusually low lying placenta can cause bleeding in the third trimester. If placenta previa has taken place early it does not pose a risk to the mother. Regular ultrasounds are recommended in this case and the mother is kept under observation.

Multiples

If you are carrying twins or more you should not travel close to your due date. You will be more vulnerable to complications in the case of multiple births and professional help is vital during labour.

Other health risks

Diabetic pregnant women and those with high blood pressure are usually advised against sitting in pressurised airplanes. Also, if during your previous pregnancies you were prone to blood clots check with the obstetrician before making travel plans.

Plan Ahead

Keep a list of all the emergency numbers handy. If possible arrange for delivery in your destination city even if you do not intend to stay there for long. Being accompanied with a prenatal chart that lists your medical history and important information may prove to be useful.

Emergency

If you happen to go into labour while travelling it is best to be not shy and ask for all the available help one can get. Your escort should be responsible enough to take you to the nearest hospital at the next destination. It also helps to know the distance between each stop in your travel. A simple search on the internet can provide you local emergency numbers of every town or village you intend to cross.

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