Laughing pregnant couple unpacking trunk of car after shopping
 

The summer is a great time to take a vacation and many opt to drive to their destination. Especially after the second trimester, women are encouraged not to fly so driving is a great alternative. Here are six tips for getting to your vacation spot comfortably.

 

Plan to stop at least every two hours to get the blood flowing back into the lower half of the body to help avoid complications like deep vein thrombosis, which pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing. DVT is caused by a blood clot in a deep vein and symptoms include swelling, pain and tenderness

 

Keep a water bottle filled with cool water readily available in the car. We have told you many times to hydrate while exercising- it is important to drink water throughout the day even if you are “just sitting”

 

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes

 

Passenger? Elevate feet by resting them on something like a shoebox or stack of books

 

Snacks!  Pack lots of filling options that have fiber and protein in them. Options include dried fruit, nuts, hummus and string cheese

 

Wear your seat belt. According to ACOG, the American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology, you should wear a lap and shoulder belt every time you travel while you are pregnant for the best protection—even in the final weeks of pregnancy (1)

 

Now that you have reached your destination, remember to have fun and relax a little. You can also stay active with activities like swimming, walking and even checking out the hotel gym. Need a quick hotel room workout specific for your trimester of pregnancy? Contact us to write one for you!

 

 

 

References:

 

  1. “Car Safety for Pregnant Women, Babies and Children”. Accessed 8, July 2016. Acog.org. http://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Car-Safety-for-Pregnant-Women-Babies-and-Children

 

Brent

Brent

President, Personal Training Manager at Body By Brent LLC
Brent
Brent
Brent