EXPECTANT MUMS SET TO TAKE TO THE AIR THIS SUMMER

With summer holiday season upon us, many pregnant Brits are set to join the ranks of busy jetsetting mums-to-be including Britney Spears, Heidi Klum and Penny Lancaster, preparing to visit far-flung places in search of a sunny break. Visits to exotic destinations and air travel bring important health considerations for pregnant travellers and this summer, BUPA offers a list of tips for pregnant travellers and a reminder it offers industry leading travel insurance cover for expectant mothers up to 30 weeks.

Dr Annabel Bentley, assistant medical director at BUPA, says: "Women's lifestyles are becoming increasingly busy. Pregnancy can take its toll on many women, particularly those juggling a career and a family, and the physical effects of pregnancy may compound the need to take a break.

Dr Bentley continues: "It's no surprise that we see women taking a holiday that could be potentially for many, their last nappy-free break for some time. However travel during pregnancy requires careful consideration. For example, in case of complications mums-to-be need to think about the timing of the holiday, what medical facilities are at their destination, what vaccinations they need prior to travelling and whether the country has reciprocal healthcare agreements."

In its annual Health of the Nation survey, BUPA found that 65 percent of travelling Brits had suffered from a variety of health issues ranging from diarrhoea to mosquito bites and sunburn.

Dr Bentley continues: "Ailments such as sunburn, mosquito bites and heat exhaustion are relatively minor to most people, but could cause greater complications for pregnant travellers who are more susceptible to sunburn, when pregnant."

If you are pregnant and intending to take a last minute summer break before your baby is due, there are a few things to consider:

• Consult your doctor before travelling, particularly if you are in either the very early or later stage in your pregnancy or if you have had any problems during this or previous pregnancies.
• A miscarriage or premature labour in a remote country may have major health implications. If in doubt discuss your destination with your doctor.
• If travelling by plane, it is important to consider that pregnancy increases your risk of blood clots, called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The risk of DVT can be reduced by staying hydrated, keeping your calf muscles moving and using compression stockings. Using aspirin to prevent blood clots is not recommended for any travellers, and especially not for pregnant women.
• Ankle swelling is common in the later months of pregnancy and also follows prolonged sitting. Keep your calf muscles moving and the use of compression stockings will help.
• Indigestion is common in pregnancy and can become noticeable during air flight. It is best to avoid fizzy drinks and gassy foods in the days before flying.
• If you are going somewhere hot and sunny, ensure you stock up on high SPF sunscreen as pregnancy makes you more susceptible to the sun's harsh rays. Remember to take a hat and wear a long sleeved shirt.
• Ensure you take out adequate medical insurance or travel insurance to cover you in case you need to see a doctor while you are away. BUPA covers pregnant women up to 30 weeks.
• Find out from your doctor if you need a certificate showing that there are no complications and stating the expected delivery date. Most major airlines will not allow pregnant women to travel after 34 weeks of pregnancy, this includes the return flight. Between 28-36 weeks some airlines may allow a woman to fly if she has a doctor's certificate. Conditions that would prevent travel include carrying twins or a previous premature labour.
• If you are contemplating a trip to an area where malaria is prevalent you should discuss the use of anti-malarials with your doctor. In some cases, travel to these areas may not be appropriate whilst pregnant as malaria carries significant risks to the mother and baby during pregnancy.
• Some countries require certificates of vaccination, which mean having to have live vaccines (for example polio and yellow fever). Your doctor will need to decide if the benefits of having these vaccines outweigh the risks for you personally.
• Wear light, loose cotton clothing for comfort and cotton pants,  to help avoid thrush which pregnant women are more susceptible to, particularly in humid climates.  

(22/7/05)