Is it OK to take a road trip while pregnant?

In most cases, pregnant women can travel safely until close to their due dates. But travel may not be recommended if you have pregnancy complications. If you are planning a trip, talk with your obstetrician–gynecologist (ob-gyn). And no matter how you choose to travel, think ahead about your comfort and safety.



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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.

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Malaria is another serious disease carried by mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, and nausea and vomiting. While you are pregnant, you should not travel to areas where there is risk of malaria, including Africa, Asia, and Central and South America.

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Generally, women are not allowed to travel by air after 36 weeks for domestic travel, and after 28 to 35 weeks for international travel. The decision on whether to travel and how far to travel at any time during pregnancy should be a joint decision between you and your healthcare provider or midwife.

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“Rides that can be safe are those where there is no excessive spinning or drop from a height,” notes Dr. Masghati. “A slow spinning carousel ride can be deemed safe, or railroad rides or rides that don't involve sudden drops in height.”

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