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Traveling For Two

Some women get such strong nesting instincts during pregnancy that they're happy to stay home, clean house and redecorate. Others feel the urge to see the world. After all, especially if it's a first child, this may be the last chance for awhile to take a trip unencumbered by diapers, wipes and a stroller. If you fall into the second group, the good news is that most obstetricians say there's no reason most women can't travel during a healthy pregnancy.

By Beth Weinhouse

Some women get such strong nesting instincts during pregnancy that they're happy to stay home, clean house and redecorate. Others feel the urge to see the world. After all, especially if it's a first child, this may be the last chance for awhile to take a trip unencumbered by diapers, wipes and a stroller. If you fall into the second group, the good news is that most obstetricians say there's no reason most women can't travel during a healthy pregnancy. But there are some guidelines that can help make any trip -- work or pleasure -- footloose and fancy-free.

Timing
Assuming you have complete freedom to schedule your trip -- meaning it's not for a crucial business meeting or a required family function -- doctors say the best time for a pregnant woman to travel is during the second trimester (the 13th to 28th weeks). The fatigue, nausea and increased miscarriage risk of the first three months have ended. And the heaviness, fatigue and risk of premature labor of the last three months haven't yet begun.

Transportation
If you're traveling by air, the biggest concern is the dangerous blood clots that can form in your legs after hours of inactivity. While all travelers are at increased risk, the danger is greater for pregnant women. Try to sit in an aisle or bulkhead seat that will allow you to stretch and move your legs as much as possible. And get up from your seat frequently -- at least every two hours -- to walk around.
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