When
Tina’s water broke at work, she went directly to the hospital. When she
got there, she called her husband, Ross, and asked him to pack some
things for her and to come right away. Tina’s delivery went well. In
her room later, she opened her overnight bag to look for a hairbrush.
Was she surprised! She wished she’d taken the time to pack for herself.
The nightgown Ross brought was one of her flimsiest, as was the
underwear he had chosen. And he had forgotten her robe. Luckily the
hospital provided her with a toothbrush, toothpaste and a comb. She was
able to get her sister, Rayna, to bring her a robe, some makeup and
other things she needed. At least the orange and apple Ross had packed
came in handy after the delivery.
7. Travel during Pregnancy
You may have to travel as a part of
your job, which can be tiring and frustrating during pregnancy. If your
pregnancy is normal, you should be able to travel in the first and
second trimesters without too much trouble. Consult your healthcare
provider if you’re considering travel in your third trimester.
The best time to travel, if you can
choose, is during the second trimester. You’ll have more energy, and
you’ll feel better. Complications are less likely. In the first
trimester, you may have morning sickness or feel tired. In the third
trimester, you may find it hard to sit or stand for long periods, have
difficulty getting in and out of tight spaces, and you may tire easily.
8. Travel Tips
The most important travel tip we have is don’t overdo it. Pregnancy does impose some restrictions. Discuss any travel plans with your healthcare provider before
you make final plans or buy tickets. Most will tell you it’s fine to
travel at certain times while you’re pregnant, but each situation is
different. Keep in mind the following general considerations about
traveling during pregnancy.
•If your company requires you to travel, limit the amount of time you’re away from home.
•Avoid areas in which good medical care is not available or where changes in climate, food or altitude could cause problems.
•Don’t plan a trip during your last month of pregnancy.
•If you have any problems, such as bleeding or cramping, don’t travel.
•If you’re uncomfortable or your hands or feet swell, sitting in a car or on a plane, or walking a lot may make matters worse.
•Take a copy of your medical records with you.
•Keep your healthcare provider’s name and telephone number handy in case of an emergency.
•If your pregnancy is considered high risk, don’t travel during pregnancy.
•If
you have problems with swelling, wear loose-fitting shoes and clothes.
Avoid panty hose, tight clothes, knee-high socks or stockings, and
tight waistlines.
