Many women travel when pregnant. Most have no problems. If you are pregnant and planning a trip, speak with your doctor as soon as possible. The following pregnancies would be considered high risk.
- Multiple pregnancy (twins +)
- History of vaginal bleeding in the pregnancy
- Age over 35 years and pregnant for the first time
- Diabetes or high blood pressure associated with pregnancy
- Previous miscarriage, stillbirth, ectopic or premature labour
- IVF pregnancy
In many parts of the world the quality of medical care will be poorer than at home. This must be fully understood before embarking on a trip to a low-income country. Your travel health insurer should be made aware of the pregnancy. Be aware that the baby, once born, may not be covered by the mother’s policy.
The best time to travel is during the 2nd trimester (12-24 weeks of the pregnancy). There is less risk of spontaneous abortion and “morning sickness” and fatigue have usually subsided.
Domestic air travel is usually allowed up to 36 weeks gestation with international cut offs being between 32 and 35 weeks. An aisle or bulkhead seat will provide the most comfort but over the wing is the smoothest. Use vascular stockings. The risk of thrombosis is much higher in pregnancy and the post-natal period.
Live vaccines should be avoided in pregnancy. Live vaccines include MMR, Chickenpox, Imojev (Japanese Encephalitis) and Yellow Fever. Influenza and COVID-19 are more severe diseases during pregnancy and vaccination should be current for travel. The Australian Government provides flu vaccine free to pregnant women.
Malaria can be more severe in pregnancy.
Some drugs used for the prevention of malaria should not be given to pregnant women.
Many drugs, used to manage illness such as traveller’s diarrhoea, cannot be given during pregnancy or lactation. The management of common health issues should be discussed prior to travel.
Scuba diving is not permitted in pregnancy. Snorkelling is fine. Water skiing and hot spas should be avoided.
Travelling to high altitudes - above 4000m (13,123 feet) – should be avoided. Altitudes above 2500m (8,200 feet) should be avoided in late pregnancy.
A useful fact sheet for pregnant travellers may be sourced from BetterHealth
