Pregnancy is a roller coaster ride and even thinking about travelling during pregnancy is next to impossible but celebrities like Kareena Kapoor Khan travel and work in movies during pregnancy while flaunting their baby bump.
We have heard these myths from our family or our friends also, like:
“It is not safe to travel during pregnancy or travelling during pregnancy is dangerous.”
“Pregnant women should not wear a seat belt as it will harm the baby.”
“You should be under complete bed rest in the first three months of pregnancy.“
“Travelling on a bumpy road can lead to a miscarriage.”
Before believing in these myths, have you ever wondered whether all these are true? Is travelling by car during pregnancy harmful for the baby? Does Kareena Kapoor Khan have supernatural powers that she was travelling worry free?
The one answer to all these above myths is that none of them is true. Pregnancy is not that fragile or sensitive. In our country, women are ready for all types of household chores during pregnancy but for travelling, it is a big NO.
Let’s bust these myths so that you can travel freely…
It has been scientifically proven that it is absolutely safe to travel in pregnancy unless you have complications associated with it. That is why following the right safety precautions for safe car travel during pregnancy is important.
Why is travelling considered safe during pregnancy?
- Gravity has no effect on the pregnancy and your baby is safe inside the womb.
- There is one hormone progesterone, which is produced in high amounts by our body during pregnancy. It keeps the baby safe inside the uterus by tightening the mouth of the uterus.
- Your baby is well cushioned by the pelvis, tummy muscles and amniotic fluid that surrounds the baby.
- Our body changes during the whole journey as per the needs of the baby, so these bumpy roads will not harm the baby.
- If you follow all the necessary precautions, there is no harm to the baby or mother during pregnancy.
So, if you want to take a short break from this glorious but exhausting journey at the same time, just go, pack your essentials and you will be all set for travelling.
Remember to always talk to your health care provider before travelling. If you have any health problems like heart diseases, gestational diabetes, or any problems related to pregnancy, your doctor may advise you to limit travel.
In case you have any such medical condition(s) and you’re looking for the right treatment for a smooth pregnancy, you can download the Zyla app or visit our website Zyla.in and get personalised guidance.
We have discussed that travelling is safe during pregnancy, but what is the best time for safe car travel during pregnancy? Let’s discuss this in detail….
What is the best time for safe car travel during pregnancy?
The best time depends on how you feel. So before jumping into the facts make sure that your comfort level is the first priority.
It is mostly recommended that the second trimester is the best time for a safe trip because:
- In this stage, you may not experience morning sickness that much as compared to that in the first trimester.
- It is quite comfortable for you to move around as compared to the third trimester, when you have a big baby bump.
- You are less likely to have pregnancy emergencies during this stage.
- You usually become habitual to the body changes at this trimester.
- During the third trimester, it can be difficult for you to sit for long periods of time.
We discussed that the second trimester is the best time, besides that sometimes you might have to travel in the first or the third trimester. So, we will now take a look at the things we need to keep in mind while travelling in various stages of pregnancy.
Travelling during various stages of pregnancy
1. During the first trimester
Travelling during this period can lead to certain challenges, as you will be new to pregnancy. During this time, women usually observe the changes in their body such as nausea and fatigue for instance. Read and learn how to manage nausea in the first trimester of pregnancy.
The risk of bleeding and miscarriage is also high during the first three months. Hence, always ask your healthcare professional first before making any travel plans.
2. During the second trimester
As we saw earlier, the second trimester is the best time to travel. At that time, you will feel the best and most energetic. Mostly, couples prefer to “babymoon” at this stage. This means that couples plan to spend some time alone together before they welcome the baby.
Obviously, with hormones running wild and emotions running high besides the physical changes, everyone needs a short vacation. Before getting mesmerised with this word, ensure your safety first for safe car travel during pregnancy.
3. During the third trimester
The third trimester is quite uncomfortable and difficult, especially if it is your first pregnancy. Since you could go into labour any time in these months. It is preferred to stay safe at home.
Sleep can also be an issue during this trimester as the little one starts moving around in the womb just when you want to sleep. Understand the right sleeping posture for the 3rd trimester by reading this blog.
In case you have to go somewhere, always consult your doctor first. It is advisable to take rest and wait for your tiny munchkin to enter this world and bring happiness during the last few months.
We have now seen all the myths related to travelling in pregnancy and have also considered the best time to travel during this journey. Hold on to your seats and let’s now jump to our main topic which is….
What are the tips for a safe car travelling during pregnancy?
1. Always wear your seat belt
It is necessary for everyone to wear a seat belt whether you are pregnant or not. In the case of pregnancy, the rule becomes even more important. Whether you are sitting in the back seat or front seat, never forget to wear your seat belt as soon as you step inside the car.
2. Talk to your healthcare provider
Before planning any trip whether short or long, make sure to talk to your doctor first. He will give you the best advice and will also guide you on medical precautions.
Most of the women experience nausea. So he/ she can also guide with the medicines that have to be carried while travelling, for a safe car travel during pregnancy.
And if you require care and treatment that is customised to your needs, then download the Zyla app or visit our website Zyla.in.
3. Travel distance
You might wonder how to stay safe on long road trips. Always prefer short travel journeys. Long travel plans can make you uncomfortable. In case of an emergency, then consult your doctor and make sure that you have a good source of medical care at your destination.
Take proper rest after reaching your destination. If you are going out of town, carry your essential reports and prescriptions with you that can be reached out to in case of emergency.
4. Take a break
Sitting in one position for long hours can lead to swelling of your feet and ankles and sometimes can lead to leg cramps as well. Try to take a break after every 60–90 minutes. You can walk around for a while and do simple stretches.
While sitting or standing, start with extending your leg and stretching the heel first to stretch your calf muscles. It helps improve the blood flow and will reduce leg cramps and swelling in the feet and ankles. Hence, prefer taking short breaks while travelling.
5. Stay comfortable
Wear comfortable clothes and skip tight clothes. Prefer wearing loose-fitting clothes and comfortable shoes. In summer, opt for soft cotton clothes. As you can see, comfort level is of utmost priority and style must take a back seat in pregnancy.
6. Adjust your seat accordingly
Prefer tilting the seat and moving it as far as possible from the steering wheel if you are driving. If sitting in a car gives you backaches, use a small cushion or a rolled piece of cloth and place it behind your back.
In order to keep your bones strong, keeping vitamin D levels under check for a healthy conception becomes necessary.
While sitting, stretch your feet toward your face and make circles with your feet to improve blood circulation.
7. Prefer a car with airbags
Opt for cars with airbags that will keep the baby safe if any mishappening happens. Do keep in mind that airbags work with a seatbelt so you should wear a seat belt properly and always ensure your safety first.
It is a common saying, “ Prepare for the worst and hope for the best”, so one should always prepare accordingly.
8. Prepare your travel kit
Carry all your essentials, including medicines and healthy snacks. Be sure to double-check to avoid missing out on crucial things. Healthy snacks like nuts or murmura and fresh fruits or vegetables rich in folic acid is the right choice to opt for safe car travel in pregnancy.
These things will keep you hydrated and will help in curbing your sudden cravings at the same time. And also at times, it is hard to find good food while travelling during pregnancy. Avoid eating from roadside vendors due to hygiene.
Did you know? It is important during pregnancy to maintain blood sugar levels because low blood sugar levels can make nausea worse. So, it is advised to take short and frequent meals during pregnancy.
9. Avoid rich food items
Before travelling try to avoid spicy, creamy, or fried food items as they will irritate your stomach lining and will further make you uncomfortable. Eating light and healthy meals before going out for a ride lowers the chances of nausea, vomiting, and discomfort.
10. Stay hydrated
Always keep a water bottle in your car. During pregnancy, your body needs more water than usual. Keeping your body hydrated is very important, especially in warmer climates. Avoid dehydration and drinking water from roadside shops and prefer to carry your own bottled water.
Did you know? There is a link between dehydration and uterine contractions. Uterine contractions can occur due to dehydration or lack of electrolytes. So, keeping yourself hydrated is more important in pregnancy.
Going forward, let’s look at some of the do’s and don’ts of travelling while pregnant…
Do’s and don’ts of travelling while pregnant
1. Hygiene
Avoid going to any public toilet or overcrowded places, because during pregnancy you are responsible not only for your health but also for the baby. Always carry a hand sanitiser and a disinfectant spray to use in case of emergency.
Urinary tract infections are found to be more common during pregnancy. Hence getting the right treatment at the right time becomes crucial for both the mother and the baby. Read on to find out the treatment of UTIs in pregnant women.
Spray the disinfectant on the toilet seat before using it and sanitise your hands after using the toilet.
2. Maintain the speed limit
If you are driving, try to maintain a speed limit, especially on bumpy roads. Keep yourself away from the steering wheel as far as possible. Avoid texting, calling, eating, or drinking while driving. If you have to attend an important call, stop the car by the roadside and then attend the call.
The above tips are very crucial to keep in mind if you want safe car travel during pregnancy.
3. Dealing with nausea and vomiting
Nausea or morning sickness is more common in the first trimester. Keep the windows open and try to lookout. Good ventilation will keep you fresh. Try to distract yourself by reading a book or by playing soft songs.
You can carry ginger tablets or medicines prescribed by your healthcare provider to cope with nausea. A handful of almonds can also help to deal with acidity.
Along with all these tips for safe travel during pregnancy, one most important thing that we have to learn is how to wear a seat belt the right way. Let’s discuss this in detail.
How to wear your seat belt properly?
- It is legal to wear your seat belt when you are travelling in a car, whether you are sitting in the front seat or back seat or whether you are pregnant or not.
- As discussed earlier, seat belts are linked with airbags, so they will protect you from sudden jerks or accidents.
- Place your lap belt below your baby bump across your hip, touching your thighs.
- Never wear the seat belt across your belly because the pressure from it can hurt your baby and can cause problems with the placenta.
- The shoulder belt should be placed in the centre of your chest diagonally. You should not place the shoulder belt under your arms or behind your back.
- If the belt across your neck irritates you, try to use seat belt pads.
- Adjust your headrest properly in such a way that it falls directly behind your head and will provide maximum support to your spinal cord.
Although we saw various tips for safe travel during pregnancy, it is recommended to avoid unnecessary travelling especially if you are suffering from any chronic disease like hypertension or gestational diabetes.
If you really wish to travel, you should choose a car rather than two-wheelers or public transport. While travelling, you have the complete freedom to stop whenever you want. Also, you can make your travel journey easy and convenient with some advanced planning and precautions.
To know what is best for your health and for a smooth and successful pregnancy you can download the Zyla app or visit our website Zyla.in and check out the Ova Pentacare Pregnancy Program which will be the best for you.
A holistic approach of diet, exercises with the right care and precautions by the team of Zyla, will ensure a healthy delivery to bring the young into the world. So, do not delay any further and start your pregnancy journey at the earliest.
Happy pregnancy!
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