Traveling while pregnant: what precautions should you take?

Traveling during the third trimester can be riskier, especially in the last two months when labor can occur at any time. It all depends on the destination and the mode of transportation chosen to get there.

In an uncomplicated pregnancy, pregnant women can travel up to the 36th week. "Most airlines refuse to accept women in the last month of their pregnancy (the last two months in the case of a multiple pregnancy)," explains Vidal. While some airlines, such as Air France, do not require a medical certificate, others request one before boarding. It is therefore prudent to consult your doctor to ensure you can board the plane on the day of departure.

For cruises, the companies are even stricter. According to Vidal, "cruises refuse pregnant women beyond the sixth month." The number of weeks can vary depending on the company, however; it's best to check before departure and have a recent medical certificate on the day.

If there are no contraindications for a long car journey, it's probably best not to drive alone. This way, the pregnant woman can take long breaks to rest and won't be alone if contractions occur. "If you drive, limit yourself to a five- or six-hour journey with frequent stops," Vidal recommends. Note that in the first trimester, nausea and fatigue can be particularly detrimental to a peaceful drive.

The train is a good option for traveling while pregnant. If you're traveling alone, get help carrying your luggage.

What precautions should be taken?

When driving, wearing a seat belt is obviously mandatory. In the event of direct trauma—such as sudden braking—there may be a risk of placental abruption. Remember to position the seat belt securely under your belly. During the third trimester, be sure to drive as smoothly as possible to avoid jolts.

During pregnancy, the risk of venous thrombosis increases. On trains, boats, and especially planes, don't hesitate to get up and walk for a few minutes at least every two hours. Move around and change positions regularly. In cars, stop and stretch your legs regularly.

Wear loose-fitting clothing and support stockings if necessary. Hydrate yourself regularly with water and avoid diuretics such as tea or coffee.

"It's best to avoid countries abroad that may be hotbeds of dangerous infections, those where hygiene conditions are suboptimal, or those where medical facilities are scarce," Tiphaine Beillat, a gynecologist at the Mathilde Clinic in Rouen, explained to the CAF website. Furthermore, in the event of infection, many treatments are contraindicated during pregnancy.

The Geneva University Hospitals recommend avoiding high mountains, above 2,000 to 2,500 meters above sea level. Pregnant women are at increased risk of hypoxia—lack of oxygen.

Sports vacations should also be considered with caution. Activities involving jolts, such as canyoning, should be avoided. Scuba diving is also contraindicated, again due to the risk of hypoxia.

Before embarking on a trip, it is recommended to speak to your doctor, gynecologist or midwife.

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