Travelling during pregnancy does not, as a rule, present any particular contraindications, as long as a few very simple precautions are taken. Here are some tips.
Travelling during pregnancy is generally not contraindicated, unless the expectant mother has particular pre-existing health problems or the pregnancy is considered at risk. Bearing in mind that it is always advisable to consult your gynaecologist or midwife for clarification and recommendations, here is what you need to know before travelling while pregnant.
The second trimester is usually the ideal period to undertake a trip or holiday. The risk of miscarriage is lower than in the early weeks and, barring any particular problems, the likelihood of premature labour is slim. For many expectant mothers, nausea and chronic fatigue are by this point a thing of the past, and the bump is not yet enormous and very heavy.
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There are no strictly off-limits destinations for women who wish to travel during pregnancy, but common sense suggests avoiding places where hygiene conditions and healthcare are not optimal. It would also be preferable to avoid altitudes above 2,000 metres, but if the expectant mother is in good physical condition and the ascent to altitude is gradual, a stay in the high mountains is also an option — provided the trusted gynaecologist is consulted first. Finally, when planning a trip during pregnancy it is important to choose a destination for which no vaccinations that are incompatible with pregnancy are required.
Despite the stubborn popular myth, when travelling by car it is important to wear a seatbelt even during pregnancy. The Italian Highway Code grants expectant mothers an exemption from wearing seatbelts only "in particular risk conditions", which must be certified by a gynaecologist. In all other cases, however, there is no reason to refrain — quite the contrary: seatbelts are an effective form of protection for the foetus too. To avoid risks and discomfort, the lap belt should be positioned below the bump, while the diagonal belt should be placed between the breasts, to the side of the abdomen. The airbag can also be left on without concern, provided the seatbelt is always fastened correctly.
Flying is not contraindicated during pregnancy, as long as a few small precautions are taken, such as stretching your legs, doing light exercises to prevent swelling of the feet and ankles, and keeping well hydrated. As a rule, it is possible to fly from the very start of pregnancy, but most airlines allow travel during pregnancy only up to the thirty-sixth week. To avoid complications, it is always a good idea to check the airline's policy before purchasing a ticket, and to carry a certificate from your gynaecologist stating the expected due date.
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The same recommendations that apply at home obviously apply here too: pregnant women who are susceptible to toxoplasmosis should avoid undercooked meat, raw cured meats and vegetables that cannot be guaranteed to have been thoroughly washed. For all pregnant women, raw eggs, unpasteurised milk and raw fish that has not previously been blast-frozen should be avoided. The absolute ban on alcohol naturally remains in force, while it is very important to maintain adequate hydration at all times, especially in hot weather or when feeling more tired than usual.
