Embarking on a journey during pregnancy necessitates thoughtful consideration and meticulous planning, particularly when it comes to ensuring the safety and well-being of both the expectant mother and her unborn child. In this context, international travel insurance emerges as a pivotal aspect of a pregnant woman’s travel preparations.
Understanding what is covered in travel insurance becomes paramount, and the ability to compare travel insurance options proves invaluable. This article will delve into seven essential tips tailored for pregnant women, shedding light on the significance of international travel insurance, the scope of coverage it offers, and the importance of making informed comparisons to make the journey a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Choose The Right Location:
When planning a pregnancy trip, choose destinations within a three- to four-hour flight to minimize health risks like deep vein thrombosis. Opt for shorter flights to places like Nepal, Seychelles, Thailand, Maldives, Dubai, Oman, or Malaysia for reduced travel time and fewer complications.
- Verify Medical Fitness For Travel:
Before booking travel, consult your doctor and secure a fitness-for-travel letter. While second-trimester flying is generally safe, avoid travel if you’ve had miscarriages, experience hypertension intending high-altitude travel, need live virus vaccinations in outbreak areas, or upon your doctor’s advice. Optimal travel time is typically between 13 to 26 weeks of pregnancy.
- Pack Essentials For Pregnancy:
Pack all necessary medications, vitamins, and essential items before boarding the flight. Consider carrying nausea relievers for motion sickness, effective gas or diarrhoea remedies, hand sanitisers, antibacterial wipes, and compression stockings to facilitate blood circulation. Keep family and emergency contact information readily available.
- Maintain A Medical Reserve:
Upon arrival at your destination, have a list of local contacts for prenatal care in case of complications—research reputable physicians and network hospitals in advance. Always carry your prescription and doctor’s notes, providing the new healthcare provider with essential information about your pregnancy and any existing medical conditions.
- Exercise Caution During The Flight:
For flights over three or four hours, take precautions: walk every hour to boost blood circulation, avoid gassy foods, stretch ankles if walking is limited, stay hydrated, and opt for a comfortable seat, like an aisle across the wing, for enhanced comfort.
- Bring Wholesome Snacks:
Satisfy pregnancy cravings with homemade, nutritious snacks like juice packs, baked chips, and protein bars. Pack these for a healthy and comfortable flight, steering clear of greasy or junk food that may cause discomfort during the journey.
- Invest In Travel Insurance:
Purchase travel insurance to cover unexpected situations. While most plans may not cover pregnancy-related expenses, some offer optional coverage for the mother and newborn child for an additional premium. Ensure that the insurance includes medical evacuation coverage, especially if you must be returned to your home country for medical attention. *
Maternity is a beautiful experience, and by following these guidelines especially getting travel insurance, expectant mothers can confidently navigate air travel, ensuring a positive and memorable experience while prioritising their health and the well-being of their unborn child.
* Standard T&C Apply
Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.
