36 weeks pregnant can i travel by car

If you have any complications that are not on this list, please consult your provider before traveling. Third Trimester Travel If you are without complications, traveling up to 36 weeks by car or air is acceptable as long as you are aware of the potential risks.

Complications such as hypertension, preterm labor, and premature rupture of membranes often come without warning and can occur quickly requiring medical attention. If you are 36 weeks or further we do not recommend any travel farther than two hours from home by car. Air travel after 36 weeks is not recommended. Once you have made the decision to travel you should take the following precautions: Make an appointment with your provider a few days before departure.

Take a copy of your prenatal face sheet with you on your travels. Take a copy of your health insurance card with you. Locate a medical facility close to your destination in case an emergency would arise.

Do not stay stationary in the car or air, it is important to walk around every two hours. Tags Dr. Carrie Soder Dr. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Registry Builder New. Safe Car Travel During Pregnancy. Medically Reviewed by Sarah Obican, M. Medical Review Policy All What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals.

Wondering about the best way to wear your seatbelt? Whether the airbag can hurt your baby? Here's how to minimize discomfort and keep both you and your baby safe when you're traveling by car during pregnancy. Back to Top. In This Article. Continue Reading Below. Recommended Reading. Best Compression Socks for Pregnancy. Travel Tips for Pregnancy. View Sources. State Farm Insurance, How to drive safe while pregnant , Because of potential turbulence that could shake the plane, make sure you are holding on to the seatbacks while navigating the aisle.

You may want to choose an aisle seat which will allow you to get up more easily to reach the restroom or just to stretch your legs and back. Travel on major airlines with pressurized cabins and avoid smaller private planes.

If you must ride in smaller planes, avoid altitudes above 7, feet. Although doubtful, the risk of DVT can be further reduced by wearing compression stockings. Risk factors that warrant travel considerations include the following: Severe anemia Cardiac disease Respiratory disease Recent hemorrhage Current or recent bone fractures Traveling by Sea During Pregnancy Traveling by sea is generally safe for women while they are pregnant; the motion of the boat may accentuate any morning sickness or make you feel nauseous all over again.

There are a few considerations to make your trip safer and more comfortable: Check with the cruise line to ensure that there is a health care provider on board in case there are any pregnancy complications.

Review the route and port-of-calls to identify if there is access to any medical facilities if needed. Make sure any medications for seasickness are approved for women who are pregnant and that there is no risk to the developing baby.

Seasickness bands use acupressure points to help prevent upset stomach and maybe a good alternative to medication. International Travel During Pregnancy Traveling overseas has the same considerations that local or domestic travel has, but it also has additional concerns that you need to know about before making an international trip. The information below is provided to help you assess whether an international trip is good for you at this time: It is important to talk with your health care provider before you take a trip internationally to discuss safety factors for you and your baby.

Discuss immunizations with your health care provider and carry a copy of your health records with you. With international travel, you may be exposed to a disease that is rare here in the United States but is common in the country you visit. Contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at or visit their website at www.

Diarrhea is a common concern when traveling overseas because you may not be used to the germs and organisms found in the food and water of other countries. This can lead to a problem of dehydration. Here are some tips to avoid diarrhea and help keep you safe: Drink plenty of bottled water Used canned juices or soft drinks as alternatives Make sure the milk is pasteurized Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables unless they have been cooked or can be peeled such as an orange or a banana Make certain that all meat and fish has been cooked completely; if you are unsure, do not eat it Travel Tips During Pregnancy Whether you are going by car, bus, or train, it is generally safe to travel while you are pregnant; however, there are some things to consider that could make your trip safer and more comfortable.

It is essential to buckle-up every time you ride in a car. Make sure that you use both the lap and shoulder belts for the best protection of you and your baby. Keep the airbags turned on. The safety benefits of the airbag outweigh any potential risk to you and your baby.

Buses tend to have narrow aisles and small restrooms. This mode of transportation can be more challenging. The safest thing is to remain seated while the bus is moving.