When is the best time to travel if your partner is pregnant?  

You MUST get the go-ahead from your doctor before travelling, to ensure that he/she can provide advice based on your circumstances.  In general, with healthy pregnancies, the second trimester is seen as the safest period to travel long distances.  The risk of miscarriage is lower after the first trimester and most doctors and airlines will not allow travel after a certain number of weeks pregnancy (usually around 28 weeks), although a doctor's note is sometimes requested by airlines for women up to 32 weeks pregnant.  High risk pregnancies, or a history of miscarriage will often lead to being advised to not travel.

General pointers:

• Try not to travel (especially abroad) if there is any history of miscarriage, premature labour, bleeding, high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia.

• Travelling with a multiple pregnancy is not a good idea. 

• Move around regularly wherever possible (either by regular stops or walking around in a confined space).

• Ensure that travel insurance covers all eventualities (including the baby if born whilst away).

• Check with your doctor about which vaccinations are safe to take and which should be avoided (live vaccines should generally be avoided).

• Avoid regions where malaria is known to be prevalent.

• Drink only clean water that you are sure is safe.  Avoid ice cubes in drinks if you are not confident in the local water source.

• Keep hydrated to avoid cramps and maintain the correct amniotic fluid levels.

• Consult your physician before any travelling whilst pregnant.

• Carry your health documentation with you.

• Ensure all meats are fully cooked through.

• Avoid certain holiday sports. Click here for details.

1. General Guidelines

2. Modes of transport (Air, Car, Bus, Train, Boat)