Advising on travel during pregnancy

As travel increases,1 the number of pregnant women who travel will probably rise. Women often ask if travel is safe in pregnancy and seek advice from a range of healthcare professionals. Travel related maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality can be completely avoided only by postponing travel until after delivery, but travel may be necessary or desirable during pregnancy.

Most women are “low risk” and can expect no problems with travel during pregnancy. However, there are particular risks to be considered with each stage of pregnancy, especially if the pregnancy is complicated by comorbidity. Medical concerns can be divided into risks of travel itself (in particular air travel), difficulties related to negotiating different healthcare systems and insurance, and specific risks of acquiring infectious diseases in particular countries. Some travel companies place restrictions on travel in pregnancy. Limited robust evidence or disseminated guidelines makes it difficult to provide definitive advice.

When asked to advise a woman regarding travel in pregnancy a careful risk assessment will help to inform the advice given. We outline an approach to considering risks associated with travel during pregnancy and discuss preparation for travel, advice on managing illness while abroad, and relevant post-travel considerations. This article is relevant to all who provide care during pregnancy, particularly general practitioners, who may be the primary source of advice for women with uncomplicated pregnancies who are considering travel.