The best pregnancies are filled with excitement, preparation and a healthy amount of precaution – a lot like your favorite trip around the world! So when you’re traveling for two, it makes perfect sense to double up on some safety education. The following tips can help:

Ask the expert
Even if you’re pregnant, it’s still safe to travel — in most cases, up to 36 weeks — if your health care provider agrees! But experts agree that the second trimester is the smartest time to travel because morning sickness and miscarriage is less of a risk at this point. But just like everyone’s health status is different, your pregnancy is unique as well. Your destination, due date and discomfort level are all important factors in a safe, sound trip.

So first things first: Talk to your doctor before making the decision to travel. He or she can give you a full checkup and a copy of your medical records to take along. And just in case you need extra assistance while you’re away, your doctor can refer you to a doctor in the area you’re visiting and suggest safe medications for tummy troubles or motion sickness.

Do your homework
And you thought it wouldn’t come for another five years! Well, this is a different kind of homework: pre-trip planning. Just because your doctor said you’re safe to travel, doesn’t mean your accommodations are as safe as you’d like. Here are a few tips:

Figure out foreign territory
Part of the excitement of foreign travel is seeing the sights and tasting the cuisine of a new culture. And while it’s safe to look to your heart’s content, tasting requires a bit more caution. But it’s still possible to experience the flavor … without experiencing all of the flavors. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• It’s ok to eat meat and fish, as long as it’s cooked completely
• Drink lots of bottled water
• Make sure your milk is pasteurized
• Avoid raw fruits or vegetables, unless they can be peeled (think avocado or bananas)

Something else to consider: immunizations. What is a rare disease at home could be a common one overseas. Make sure you’re aware of the symptoms of these common illnesses and have an action plan in place.

Buddy up!
You’re probably thinking if you can do pregnancy, you can do anything — including traveling alone. However, bringing along a travel buddy can be a real comfort. For instance, what if your health or safety is in jeopardy? Or how about a hand with that heavy lifting?

But companion-less travel is still safe. Just make sure to let your contacts know where you are and to keep their cell phones at the ready for your call. And remember to leave your itinerary with family and friends.

Safety comes first
It’s likely that you’ve heard a few old wives’ tales since you’ve been pregnant. Well, the dynamic duo of pregnancy and travel has a few misconceptions too.

Myth #1: Metal detectors at airports can hurt your baby
Myth #2: Bumpy plane, train or auto rides can bring on labor
Myth #3: A seat belt will harm your baby on impact, or hard stops

The fact is that metal detectors have very low levels of radiation. And babies are a lot tougher than we think! He or she is protected by your muscles, organs and bones, nestled safely in a fluid-filled sac within your uterus. So unless you’re seriously hurt, your baby will be ok.

But something to keep in mind is the proper way to wear a seat belt to avoid injury to you or the baby.  

Step #1: Place the lap belt under your belly and across your upper thighs for a comfortable fit
Step #2: Put the shoulder belt between your breasts and across your shoulder
Step #3: Move your seat until the belt doesn’t rub your neck

The important thing to remember is that the safer you are, the safer your baby will be.

Bring your bunny slippers
Let’s face it — traveling can be uncomfortable for anyone, pregnant or not. It can be crowded, cramped, noisy and inconvenient. But there are a few things you can do to keep your trip as comfortable as possible:

• Drink up: Pregnancy and airplanes can leave you feeling thirsty, so drink plenty of water
• Choose the best seat in the house: Choose an aisle seat — or even better — a front aisle seat, since these seats are both convenient and less bumpy
• Dress in layers: If it’s too hot, take off a layer. If it’s too cold, add a layer.
• Stick to your routine: Eat balanced meals, pack plenty of snacks and leave extra time for sleeping

Travel During Pregnancy. Discovery Health. Accessed May 6, 2008 at http://health.discovery.com/centers/pregnancy/americanbaby/travel_print.html.

Air Travel During Pregnancy: Is it safe? Accessed May 6, 2008 at http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/air-travel-during-pregnancy/AN00398.

Traveling While Pregnant. Pregnancy Weekly. Accessed May 6, 2008 at http://www.parentingweekly.com/pregnancy/pregnancy_health_fitness/travel_safety.htm.

Pregnancy and Travel. American Pregnancy Association. Accessed May 6, 2008 at http://www.americanpregnancy.org/pregnancyhealth/travel.html.