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A Trip for Two
Traveling While Pregnant
By Gail Pirics
During her pregnancy an expectant mother takes precautions to safeguard her unborn baby. But must she forgo traveling to avoid undue risk?
According to Dr. Mark Morrison, an OB-GYN on staff at Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, Ill., traveling does not put a healthy pregnancy at risk. However, exercising caution and common sense are key during any trip. Knowing the stakes involved in certain travel and being prepared with an emergency plan can assist in a more pleasant journey.
"Every pregnancy is kind of unique and depending on where you travel is unique," Dr. Morrison says. "Travel within the U.S. is a whole lot easier and more reassuring medically than going way overseas. If you are going to travel, be very well prepared and check things out in advance. If you have to travel by emergency basis, check into what doctor you could see if you had to."
Dr. Morrison advises his patients not to travel long distances during the last six weeks of pregnancy and women with multiple pregnancies not to travel after their 28th week. "And if there are any complications during the pregnancy, we suggest you greatly limit travel," he says. "Anytime you are having any complications – bleeding, elevated blood pressure or any symptoms that are not completely normal – travel should not be entertained."
While traveling in a car, use the normal seatbelts and restraining systems. Place the belt low on the abdomen or low on the uterus to prevent a direct blow to the baby if the car is in an accident.
On long trips take frequent breaks to stretch your legs and empty your bladder and drink plenty of fluids to maintain comfort.
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