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Dr. Chrissie: BABYMOON
Babymoon (noun): Romantic vacation while pregnant to celebrate with your partner before the baby arrives.
Now, I need to add the caveat that my above listed definition is in sharp contrast with the definition that my husband and his friends employ—loosely translated: Trip away with the boys on the week-end that she has her baby shower… (and they think that “babymoon” sounds better than “man-shower.”)
Regardless of what definition is functional in your household, a romantic get-away before the baby comes seems like a good idea. After all, although you will have trips alone after you have the baby, you and your partner will never again return to the state of just the two of you.
Although the babymoon could simply be a relaxing week-end at home or nearby, if you’re planning on traveling far away during pregnancy there are some things that you should consider before planning your trip.
Get a copy of your key medical records before you travel (particularly if you’re traveling out of the country, but it can’t hurt to have some of the basics with you even if you’re staying close). Many OB practices give patients a “summary card” that lists some of these key pieces of information, and you may want to ask your doctor if they have one that you can take. The main things that you might want to have readily available are: your exact due date (and what your doctor based that due-date on (i.e. your last period, an intra-uterine insemination, embryo transfer, early ultrasound, etc.) If you did have any early ultrasound reports, you could consider taking a copy of the report as well as information about your blood type. If you have an Rh-negative blood type and develop any bleeding, you may need a shot of Rh-D immune globulin.
If you’re planning a trip, the second trimester is probably the best time. For most people this is the time when any morning sickness that they have had is resolved (or close to it), and plane travel may not be quite as uncomfortable as during later stages of pregnancy. Most airlines stop allowing you to fly up until around 35 weeks. For any long travel (by air or by car), make sure to get up and walk around every few hours to prevent blood clots from forming in your legs. Sitting in one position can also lead to leg swelling and you could consider wearing support stockings to decrease swelling.
Other things to consider are the usual food and dietary restrictions during pregnancy—and how that might interface with your planned vacation (i.e. trip to the wine country is probably not the best idea for a babymoon—unless you relish the role of designated driver…) Make sure that dairy products are pasteurized and if the local water is questionable, drink bottled. In general, especially in summer, not drinking enough water can lead to some degree of dehydration, which can make your uterus more irritable and likely to contract—so stay well hydrated.
Most importantly, you should speak with your doctor about the details of your medical history, as well as the trip that you plan to take, to make sure that there are no other concerns specific to your pregnancy. A little planning ahead of time will make this a safe, restful and relaxing vacation before the baby arrives.
By Christine Skiadas, M.D.
The content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Tags: ttc
