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Pregnancy

23rd Aug 2019

Have bump, will travel – 6 top tips for pregnant jetsetters

Alison Bough

Heading abroad on holiday when you are expecting your first baby can be daunting, especially when you compare it to last year’s more carefree adventure.

Fear not! Travelling with a bump shouldn’t stop you from enjoying yourself but limiting stress is key for any mum-to-be, particularly when travelling. Holidays will never be the same again once baba arrives so relax, enjoy, and cherish your last bid for freedom…

Here are our 6 top tips for pregnant jetsetters:

1. Location, location, location

Bad news if you’re normally a Bond girl on your jollies; adventure holidays are unfortunately a no-go for expectant mamas for the simple reason that a fall or an impact can be extra dangerous for you and your baby. Scuba diving is also out and a trip to a theme park won’t be any fun when you can’t ride anything remotely exciting for fear of inducing early labour. Choose a holiday spot where it will be easy for you to relax and enjoy yourself with everything nearby. Beach locations are ideal, as long as the heat isn’t sweltering. Most importantly, choose a destination that you won’t be able to visit next year with a baby in tow – appreciate your last holiday that doesn’t mention a kiddy pool or kids club.

2. Don’t try to be superwoman

Walking around a European city from dawn till dusk taking in the sights and repeatedly declaring “I’m grannnnnddd!” is not ideal. Give your feet a break frequently and realise that it is perfectly acceptable not to visit everything in your Lonely Planet guidebook. Wear comfortable footwear that will allow for your feet to swell on your holiday. Go easy – you are carrying another person you know.

3. Be bump-proud

Even if you’re not entirely enamoured with your size or slightly-larger-than-normal appearance on holiday, you still need to take a few selfies. Taking photographs is great way to remember your pregnancy and reminisce on your last child-free trip in the future. There is no need to be embarrassed on the beach or by the pool either. Everyone can see that you are pregnant and there is no point spending your holiday worrying about what everyone thinks of you. Sure lookit you’re only GORGEOUS and everyone loves a lady with a bump.

4. Go mermaid

Swimming is the best exercise in pregnancy as it supports your body and takes the weight off your back and legs. The hotel pool is also an excellent way to cool down. Don’t over exert yourself while swimming in the sea or pool and avoid hot tubs and saunas as they can cause you to become overheated which is not advisable during pregnancy.

5. Careful now

During pregnancy, it can be hard to know what you can and can’t eat at the best of times – never mind menus in a foreign language making it even harder. Be vigilant with regards to raw eggs, which can harbour salmonella and stay clear of scrambled or runny eggs and restaurant-made salad dressings. Make sure all of your meat is cooked throughly and avoid sushi and swordfish. Snack on a lot of fruit and vegetables and keep yourself hydrated by carrying bottles of water with you wherever you venture.

6. Better safe than sorry

Check out the local medical and health care options in the area you are travelling to BEFORE you go. Most European countries have great health care facilities in case you need medical attention and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

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