The safety and security of your precious cargo is an important concern when you are pregnant. While it is generally safe to travel while pregnant, there are some basic safety precautions you should take to make you more comfortable and secure during your trip. This page provides information on how to travel while pregnant.

Planning is key to having a comfortable and safe travel experience while you are pregnant. From scheduling your travel around important medical tests to proper hygiene precautions, travel during pregnancy requires more preparation than standard travel. The second trimester is the generally the best time to schedule travel because you have less pregnancy symptoms like morning sickness and have more energy than in your third trimester.

Always consult your doctor before any extensive travel plans for any precautions specific to your pregnancy. Your doctor may limit the extent or type of travel, especially if you have any high-risk complications. For delicate conditions, your doctor may prohibit any travel. Ask your doctor for references of medical professionals where you will be traveling to use in an emergency situation.

Check with your health insurance company to know your coverage options during your travels. You may need to purchase supplemental insurance, especially if you will be traveling internationally. Consider buying travel insurance that will cover unexpected medical emergencies, cancellation expenses and medical transportation if you will be traveling in more remote or foreign destinations.

Schedule your travel around prenatal tests and travel restrictions. The timing of certain prenatal tests can be critical to receiving accurate results. Contact your doctor for an exact schedule if necessary. Here is a list of common tests and procedures along with the time frame when they are generally needed:

1. Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): 10-12 Weeks
2. Amniocentesis: 15-18 Weeks
3. Multiple Marker Screening: 15-20 Weeks
4. Ultrasound: 16-20 Weeks
5. Glucose Screening Test (GCT): 24-28 Weeks
6. Group B Strep Screening: 35-37 Weeks
7. Rh-Negative Shot: 28 Weeks http://www.babycenter.com/-_eight-steps-for-safe-travel-during-pregnancy_1339353.bc<ref/>

During your third trimester, some airlines restrict travel for pregnant women, so check with your airline for their pregnancy flight policies.

Create a vital information packet to take with you on your travels. Include emergency contact information, your doctor’s contact information, a copy of your pregnancy record from your doctor including test results and your general medical history. Place these records in your carry-on luggage or in your purse for easy access in case of emergency.

Be prepared for unexpected delays and long stretches between meals by keeping a handy stash of snacks with you at all times. Consider nuts, dried fruit and other healthy, nutritious snacks. These snacks can also come in handy if you are served food that you cannot or prefer not to eat during your pregnancy.

Observe basic hygiene and health precautions seriously while you are traveling. Wash your hands frequently, drink only bottled water in international destinations and avoid eating foods that have not been thoroughly cooked. Being sick while traveling is never fun, but it can be dangerous when you are pregnant.

Take items that will make you more comfortable along your journey. Back pillows can be used to ease pain on long flights or discomfort on a car trip. Remember to use your safety belt, not matter what mode of transportation you take. A small blanket can be placed between the belt and your pregnant belly for added comfort. Try to place the belt under your belly for safety.

Take frequent breaks to walk around and go to the bathroom. Wherever possible, try to prop up your legs to prevent your feet from swelling. Overall, listen to your body and keep a balanced pace so you can enjoy your trip and avoid pregnancy travel discomfort.

Medicines

Make sure to pack your medications and prenatal vitamins. If you have a long journey, keep your medications within reach so you do not miss a dose in route. Pack medications for common aliments such as headaches, heartburn, upset stomach and diarrhea that are approved by your doctor because you may not have easy access to purchase medications during your travels.