Travelling during Pregnancy

Things to consider if you want to travel while you are pregnant

Planning a family as well as a holiday? If you are pregnant and wish to book a holiday, we are happy to insure your travel as we always do, even if you are expecting twins or triplets. Pregnancy is not treated as a pre-existing condition and therefore our standard medical expenses cover will also benefit women who wish to travel during pregnancy.

You will need to let us know if you have experienced any previous complications around pregnancy and childbirth in the last 2 years, as that increases the risk of complications and may require a more specialist insurance cover.

If you have not experienced any complications in the last two years, you will have access to the same travel insurance benefits as everyone else, including cover for medical expenses and 24/7 emergency medical support. This will include holiday cancellation and medical expenses, provided you are less than 28 weeks pregnant. After that, you will still be covered for complications, such as pre-eclampsia or emergency Caesarean but not for holiday cancellation in case your little one decides to arrive early.

Before you travel abroad, we recommend that you check with your carrier whether they have any policies relating to pregnancy. If you are more than 28 weeks pregnant, many airlines ask for a letter from your doctor or midwife confirming your due date and the fact that there is no risk of complications. If you were refused permission to board a plane, coach or train because you do not comply with the carrier’s rules on carrying pregnant women, your insurance will not pay for missed departure, cancellation or curtailment, as it is up to you to make sure you comply with the carrier’s policy before travelling. With the best will in the world, we won’t be able to provide travel cover if your airline refuses to take you.

Is it safe to fly during pregnancy?

Flying is not normally harmful to you or your baby, but we recommend that you check with your doctor or midwife before you book.

You are many times more likely to go into labour after week 37 of your pregnancy, or week 34 if you are carrying twins, and some airlines will simply not let you fly towards the end of your pregnancy for that reason.

If you are travelling long distance, there is a slightly increased risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT).  Drink plenty of water and get up to move around as often as possible, but at least every 30 minutes. For more tips on how to avoid DVT, see our article here.

Boat journeys during pregnancy

Some ferry companies have restrictions on travel for heavily pregnant women – usually after 32 weeks and so, again, we advise you check with your ferry company before you book. If you are planning to go on a cruise while pregnant, check that there are on-board facilities to deal with pregnancy and also make sure that there are medical services in the ports you are visiting en route.

Travel Vaccinations while pregnant

The NHS advise against vaccinations because there is a risk that the virus or bacteria in the jab might harm your unborn baby and so the advice is to avoid travelling to countries where immunisation is required. If you have no choice and need to travel to an area where immunisation is required, the advice is generally to get the jab despite the fact that you’re pregnant, because the risk of catching an infectious and dangerous disease outweighs the risks from inoculation.

Some anti-malaria tablets are not safe to take during pregnancy, so always consult your doctor before taking them.

Generally, it is advised that you take extra care and precautions to avoid any form of food poisoning or water related stomach upsets and diarrhoea as some medicines treating these conditions are not suitable during pregnancy.

Holiday activities to avoid while pregnant

Even if you normally prefer active holidays, it is of course best, and insurance companies will expect you to use common sense, particularly when you are pregnant. Avoid activities that put you at risk of falling, such as snowboarding, riding, waterskiing, windsurfing and climbing. Avoid amusement park rides and waterslides – rough landings and sudden acceleration or deceleration aren't good for you! It's wise to stay out of the hot tub and sauna too.

Take this opportunity to relax or practise more laid back activities such as yoga or Pilates. Take a pottery class or an art lesson and take things easy.

Here at Travel Insured, our team of highly trained and experienced staff can talk you through all the options and we are able to provide travel cover for you even if you have pre-existing conditions. Just let us know; we don’t just arrange travel insurance – we help you make dreams come true.

For further advice on air travel during pregnancy see this leaflet.

For patient advice on Malaria and pregnancy, you will find this leaflet useful.