Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
This week on Health Watch, we’re talking about staying safe and healthy while traveling. Pregnant travelers face additional concerns, including an increased risk for blood clots in the legs. There are other things pregnant travelers need to be aware of.
Dr. Robyn Horsager-Boehrer, an obstetrician and gynecologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center, has these tips for traveling while pregnant: If you’re traveling by car, wear both the lap and shoulder seatbelts. Position the lap belt below the baby bump. Keep the airbags activated because the safer you are, the safer your baby is. If you’re planning to fly, check with your doctor and the airline about any restrictions. Most airlines allow pregnant women to travel through their eighth month, and later with a doctor’s permission. If you’re traveling abroad, check on the vaccinations you’ll need and whether you can get them while you’re pregnant. Take a copy of your prenatal records with you when you travel in case you need medical attention.
Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/obgyn to learn more about UT Southwestern’s clinical services in gynecology and obstetrics.
