Moving Abroad When Pregnant

Although relocation is a common part of nowadays adult life, it is a complicated process. Traveling to different country is even more difficult when you are expecting a baby. Moving abroad during pregnancy may seem like a risky and stressful endeavor. Besides the challenges that usually come with every move, you need to look for reliable healthcare and consider vaccinations. Luckily, with the proper precautions and thorough planning you can avoid the potential threats and travel safely while pregnant.

Preparing For the Move

Before going to another country, you need to research the health hazards of your destination. Depending on the place you are Moving To, you may need to get vaccinated. Vaccines are not recommendable during pregnancy, because the bacteria they contain may impose harm to the baby in the womb. There are countries in which immunization is mandatory. In this case, it’s better to get your jabs. The infectious disease is far more dangerous than the vaccine. Some medicines are not safe to take during the pregnancy. Consult with your physician about the risks of relocation. You should also obtain all your medical records prior to the trip.

Wherever you go, you need to find genuine healthcare facilities and qualified doctor. Talk with other expats about local doctors and hospitals. If you are moving to a country and you don’t speak the official language, you should look for English –speaking physician. You may also need to translate your prescriptions and check what medicines you can bring with you. Ensure that you understand well the local healthcare system.

Minimize the Stress

Moving house, especially to another country is an overwhelming experience.  You need to take care of the packing, the removals, the logistics and the legal issues. The relocation process may add undue stress in your routine. The hassle may have a bad impact on your condition, so try to avoid it.

Foreign Food and Drinks

Moving abroad is usually associated with some food – and water –borne illness like stomach upsets and traveler diarrhoea. Be cautious when treating these conditions. Some medicines are not appropriate for pregnancy.

When to Travel

During the first twelve weeks of the pregnancy, nausea and exhaustion are common among many women. The chance of miscarriage is also higher in the early stages, whether traveling or not. It’s better to avoid travelling during the first three months of the pregnancy. Moving house during the final weeks is also not recommendable.  The trip will be tiring and uncomfortable. The best time to relocate is in mid –pregnancy (4 to 6 months).

Modes of Transportation

Airplane – traveling by plane is not harmful for you or your baby. You should however discuss your medical condition and any pregnancy complications with your physician. Some airlines will not permit you to fly after the 37 week of your pregnancy. The reason is that the likelihood of going into labor during that period is higher. After the 28^th week of pregnancy, you may need to present a letter from your doctor confirming your due date and assuring there are no pregnancy complications. Long –distance travel may cause deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Drink a lot of water and move regularly during the fly. You can also buy a pair of support stockings from the pharmacy.

Car – dizziness and fatigue are normal during pregnancy. If you choose to travel by car, you need to stay hydrated during the trip and eat healthy and nutritious food such as fruits and nuts. Keep the cross strap of your seat-belt between your breasts and the lap strap across the pelvis, not across the bump.

Ship/ Ferry – You should check the specific restrictions and policies of the transport company. If you are planning a longer boat trip, check if there are onboard medical services that can deal with pregnancy.

With the proper preventive measures, relocation during pregnancy can be managed smoothly.