Babymoon: Flying during pregnancy
Are you planning to take 'one last vacation' as a couple before you have your baby? More and more soon-to-be parents go on a babymoon. Almost like a honeymoon: a romantic trip with your significant other, but with a baby bump. Of course, you shouldn't go snowboarding or mountain climbing, but what type of holiday is the most suitable? Until when can you fly when you're pregnant? We give you useful tips so you can enjoy your babymoon carefree.
What is the best time to fly when you are pregnant?
Flying during the second trimester, between 13 and 28 weeks, is the most relaxed when you're pregnant. The nausea is often a lot less, you feel more fit, and most importantly, you can enjoy your vacation while your baby bump is not in the way yet.
Can you fly pregnant?
You can fly smoothly until the 28th week of your pregnancy. Make sure you can prove how many weeks you are pregnant by means of a 'fit to fly' certification from your doctor or midwife. Whether you are allowed on board of an airplane after 28 weeks depends on the airline carrier. Make sure you are aware of the rules in advance to avoid problems before arriving at the airport. After 36 weeks if you are pregnant with one baby (or after 34 weeks if you are pregnant with twins or more), some airline carriers may restrict you from traveling or require you to have a medical certificate. Pay attention to how many weeks you are when you are flying back. You obviously don't want to get stuck abroad because you are no longer allowed onboard.
Check with your doctor or midwife whether it is wise for you to travel. The doctor also provides a doctor's note, also known as a 'fit to fly' certificate. Always take it with you when you travel! You may have to show the document when you check in at the airport. Also take a copy of your pregnancy card. In the unlikely event that you end up in the hospital or at the doctor, the local doctor can view all the details concerning your pregnancy.
Best destinations for a babymoon
Chilling on the beach of the Philippines sounds great, but remember that you are sitting in a plane for many hours. We recommend choosing a destination that is not too far away, such as Cancun or Hawaii.
Which hotel should you pick for your babymoon?
Comfort is key during your babymoon. No one gets happy from a ramshackle bed with a sagging mattress, but if you are pregnant you are in even more need of a good bed. Choose your hotel carefully or choose an accommodation that is fully equipped to the needs of pregnant women. You may want to spend a little extra to spoil yourself! Make sure that your hotel is not too far away from a hospital. In most big cities there is a good hospital, but in the middle of nowhere, you do not want to risk when the contractions start coming!
How do you protect your pregnant belly against the sun?
Lubrication, lubrication, lubrication is the advice for pregnant women. Put a sunscreen with at least a factor 50 in your suitcase because your skin is much more sensitive during your pregnancy. By applying yourself well you also reduce the chance of a pregnancy mask, discoloration of the skin in the face. Try to stay in the shades regularly, especially during the afternoon, and also make sure that you drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
How do you insure yourself when you are pregnant?
You obviously hope that everything runs smoothly, but as a pregnant woman you run a little more risk than normal. So make sure you have a good travel and cancellation insurance for your baby holiday to avoid having to pay any unexpected costs.
Enjoy it!
Take the elevator instead of the stairs and take the taxi to a good restaurant. Take a visit to the spa, sleep well, and enjoy your final time just with the two of you!
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