Pregnant on holiday: what should you consider?
Going on holiday while pregnant is usually perfectly possible, but it requires a little more preparation than a regular trip. The question is not only whether you can travel, but also what is needed if something does go wrong along the way. Bryan Morgan Care deals with medical situations abroad on a daily basis, including during pregnancy, and finds that a little preparation in advance can prevent a great deal of stress later on.
When is travelling during pregnancy not a problem?
With an uncomplicated pregnancy, travelling is generally trouble-free, especially during the second trimester. Many doctors and midwives consider the period between approximately week 14 and week 28 the most comfortable time to travel, with less nausea and still sufficient freedom of movement.
Nevertheless, it is advisable to consult your midwife or gynaecologist beforehand, especially in the event of a previous miscarriage, premature birth, multiple pregnancy, or a medical history requiring additional attention.
Some airlines require a medical certificate from a certain stage of pregnancy before allowing you to fly; this limit varies by airline, so check in advance.
Travel insurance and pregnancy
Not every travel insurance policy covers pregnancy-related care abroad in the same way. Some policies exclude complications from a certain stage of pregnancy, or require separate medical approval in advance.
It is worth checking before departure exactly what is covered: consultations, emergency admission, a possible premature birth, and — in the worst-case scenario — medical repatriation of mother and child.
If in doubt, it is better to clarify this before departure than to find out during an emergency at your destination.
Destination and medical infrastructure
Your choice of destination is also a factor. In countries with well-developed hospital care, assistance in the event of an unexpected complication can generally be arranged more quickly than in remote or less accessible areas.
The distance to a suitable hospital is also relevant, especially later in the pregnancy. Staying on an island or in a rural region without a maternity unit nearby deserves extra consideration.
This does not mean that such destinations are impossible, but it is important to know in advance where the nearest suitable care is available.
What if something does go wrong along the way?
Symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, bleeding, premature contractions, high blood pressure or reduced fetal movements always require prompt medical assessment, including when travelling.
In most cases, local healthcare can manage this perfectly well. Sometimes, however, further follow-up, transfer to a specialised centre, or even a return home may be necessary if this is medically responsible and feasible.
In such situations, Bryan Morgan Care can help consider a safe solution, in consultation with the treating doctor at the destination.
Practical preparation before departure
Bring your pregnancy records or the most important medical information, together with the contact details of your own midwife or gynaecologist.
Find out in advance how accessible medical care is at your destination, and make a note of the address of the nearest hospital with a maternity unit.
Allow some extra margin in your planning: where possible, avoid a very tight travel schedule shortly before your due date.
When specialised advice is worthwhile
In the case of a multiple pregnancy, a history of premature birth, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure or other risk factors, targeted advice in advance is especially valuable.
A destination with limited medical infrastructure, or travelling late in pregnancy, is also a reason to discuss this specifically with your treating healthcare provider.
This way, you will know in advance what is and is not feasible, rather than discovering it only once you are there.