Travel
In most cases, travel is not ruled out during pregnancy. Travel, either by car or plane, will not cause problems with the pregnancy. However, if a pregnancy complication arises, it is important to have access to medical care. The best time to travel is mid-pregnancy (14 to 24 weeks).
Prior to 14 weeks nausea, vomiting, and fatigue are common. Also, the risk of miscarriage is highest prior to 14 weeks.
After 24 weeks, your baby is “viable.” This means that, in the rare chance your baby is delivered early, it has the potential to survive. Some of this potential depends upon what type of medical care the baby receives. You and your baby may not be able to receive the same medical care in your travel destination (especially if you are traveling outside the United States) as you will receive at Presbyterian Dallas Hospital.
Please note:
- Most airlines do not allow pregnant women to travel after 36 weeks.
- Most cruise lines do not allow pregnant women to travel with them at any gestational age.
If you plan to travel after 24 weeks, please notify us. We may recommend (depending on your gestational age and your destination) an examination, sonogram, or other testing prior to your departure.
ZIKA Virus
- Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. However, it can be spread through sexual transmission and blood transfusions.
- Most cases of Zika in Texas are related to travel abroad.
- It is possible for a pregnant mother infected with Zika to pass the virus to her baby. The virus has been linked to birth defects.
- There is currently no vaccine or treatment for Zika.
Symptons:
Please inform us if you have experiences these symptoms, especially if you have travelled to a high-risk area.
- Fever
- Rash
- Joint pain
- Conjunctivitis (red eyes) About four out of five people won’t even know they have it.
Prevent Zika while traveling:
- Pregnant women and their partners should delay travel to areas where Zika is spreading – a list of areas to avoid can be found at: www.texaszika.org/travelers.htm
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites
- Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors
- Apply an EPA-approved insecr repellant with DEET when outdoors, stay indoors or in screened-in areas.
- Pregnant women with sex partners who live in or have traveled to a high-risk area should abstain from sex (vaginal, anal, or oral) for the duration of the pregnancy.
- For couples not yet pregnant, but have had a confirmed Zika virus infection or illness consistent with Zika virus disease: Men should abstain from sex or use condoms for at least six months after onset of illness. Women should abstain for at least eight weeks after onset of illness.
For more information: www.cdc.gov
