Doctor Shares Travel Tips for Pregnant Women
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Natasya Prameswari, Sp.OG, has shared tips for pregnant women undertaking long-distance travel, including during the second trimester.
According to her, long-distance travel is still permitted for pregnant women, provided they have consulted their obstetrician beforehand and there are no complications in the pregnancy.
“Because during the second trimester, the pregnancy is usually not as high-risk as in the first or third trimesters, which approach childbirth,” said Dr Natasya, who practices at the University of Indonesia Hospital (RSUI), during an interview with ANTARA in Depok, West Java, on Monday.
Natasya noted that when embarking on long journeys, pregnant women must ensure conditions remain comfortable. It is not recommended to travel long distances using modes of transport that cause discomfort.
Travelling via land, sea, or air remains permissible during pregnancy; however, several specific considerations must be taken into account to safeguard the health of both mother and foetus.
For instance, pregnant women need to recognise symptoms that could potentially endanger the pregnancy, such as contractions and bleeding. Therefore, it is vital to know whether the destination has accessible healthcare facilities.
Pregnant women undertaking long journeys are also advised to wear compression stockings as a preventative measure against Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or blood clots, and to perform stretching exercises at least every two hours.
“Light stretching, such as stretching the legs and arms, or even walking—as long as one does not remain in a single position continuously—every two to three hours during long-distance travel,” she added.
Furthermore, before travelling, pregnant women must ensure they have checked with their obstetrician to confirm that the pregnancy is without complications and that they are cleared to fly or travel.
Dr Natasya also stated that pregnant women should avoid carrying heavy luggage beyond their physical capability.
“When travelling, pregnant women must clearly carry identification and ensure they bring their prenatal medical records. If an unforeseen event occurs, the previous medical records can be reviewed by an obstetrician at the destination,” she added.
Furthermore, Dr Natasya noted that the risks of travel for pregnant women can be influenced by the distance and the destination. Whether using land, sea, or air transport, pregnant women must ensure their condition has been declared fit for travel by a doctor.
“The risk is that if a pregnant woman becomes exhausted or stressed, it could lead to conditions known as contractions or false labour. Continuous contractions must be monitored closely. If there is a rupture of membranes or bleeding, further examination at a healthcare facility is required,” she said.