Travel

 

When to travel?

If you can choose when to travel during pregnancy, then the second trimester (weeks 14 to 27) is the best time. Morning sickness will be behind you and the chance of miscarriage is lower at this stage. If possible, avoid travelling abroad in early pregnancy until routine blood tests, scans and other screening tests are completed.

Vaccinations during Pregnancy

If you're pregnant, you're advised not to travel to countries requiring vaccinations. If this can't be avoided, consult your doctor because as a rule, live vaccines are not given during pregnancy. If you have to visit a country that insists on yellow fever vaccine, check with your travel agent to see if you'll need a certificate of exemption from your GP. The immigration authorities may demand this before they let you in.

Flying

Up until the seventh month, you can continue to fly. After that, it is not recommended since a drop in cabin pressure can cause contractions. Find out about the rules in force for your airline company. If your stomach is bigger than average, it is possible they won’t believe you when you say you are five months pregnant. You will be asked to show a medical certificate from your doctor certifying your pregnancy. It is advisable to take this certificate when travelling, starting from the 30th week, and to make sure you have it on you when you check in.