
Travelling while pregnant
November 4, 2014
Why travellers prefer Blue Cross
November 4, 2014
Whether you are travelling as part of your job or are trying to sneak in one last getaway before the baby arrives, it’s important to do everything you can to make your trip safe, fun and comfortable.
The timing of travel when you are pregnant is important. While most people are aware that you should try to avoid travel after the 8-month mark, the safest time to travel is between the 18th and 24th weeks of pregnancy, during the second trimester. Most common issues and emergencies occur during the first and third trimesters.
You should consult your family doctor before you decide to travel. Tell your doctor when you plan on travelling, where you will be going and how long you will be away. Being aware of the potential medical issues that could arise will set your mind at ease. Depending on your current health, your doctor may recommend that you refrain from travelling, regardless of how far you are in your pregnancy.
If you are travelling by air, you can safely fly up to 36 weeks. Most airlines have travel restrictions for travellers who are pregnant, and you may need to provide a doctor’s note stating that you are healthy enough to travel by air. Check with the airline to ensure you meet their requirements.
If you travel when you’re pregnant, you are exposed to additional risks that you might not usually think twice about, which is why talking with your doctor is important. The Government of Canada outlines a number of risks and things to consider before travelling, including:
Staying comfortable is paramount when travelling while pregnant. Here are some ways to make your next trip more comfortable:
Travel insurance is intended for unexpected medical emergencies. If you’ve had no complications during your pregnancy and your doctor provides written confirmation that your pregnancy is stable, go ahead and make your travel plans, and be sure to purchase travel insurance in case an unexpected emergency occurs. If you’ve had any issues during your pregnancy or your doctor advises you not to travel for any reason, you should stay home.
For information on travel insurance for pregnancy, to get a free travel insurance quote on-line or for information on emergency medical assistance contact us today.