The Preggy Traveller

Some if not most people have this notion that marriage and long term travel will never have good chemistry, let alone backpacking with kids in tow. I am determined to prove otherwise (if you are too, throw your hands up at me!). Hubby-slash-backpacking buddy and I do not have our bundle of joy yet, but am 3 months on the way.

Bantayan Island trip at 2 months without hubby. The first pregnancy term is considered crucial, take extra care.
I am no medical expert. The tips I am about to share are based on my Ob-Gyne's advices, also from lessons (learned the hard way) I picked up along the road.

1. The best time to travel is during mid-pregnancy (second term). Morning sickness shall already be over. Make sure you have taken your prenatal tests (blood count, urinalysis, ultrasound, etc.), so your Ob-Gyne can prescribe the supplements/medicines you need. Avoid travelling on your third term, this might lead to premature birth.

2. Pack sufficient amount of prenatal vitamins and medications, especially if you're going overseas. Pharmacies in other countries may not have them in stock, or may not even sell them at all.

3. Bring a copy of your health record if you'll be away from home for a long time.

4. Do not self medicate. Don't take cough and cold medicines, diarrhea tablets, or even motion sickness pills without consulting an Ob-Gyne.

5. When flying, book an aisle seat. It will be easier for you to go to the lavatory, and walk around to stretch your legs.

Definitely no alcohol for me! Gulping my choco materna drink while the rest got intoxicated at Bantayan Island.
6. Eat healthy. You can't just rely on your supplements. Depending on your destination, it can be a real challenge but definitely doable. Basically stay away from fast food, soft drinks, caffeinated drinks, and also cut down on sweets. If it's difficult to find a vegetable (important for folate and eases constipation) dish you like, buy fresh veggies from the market and make your own salad. Snack on fruits.

7. And speaking of food, if you're boarding a long bus ride, carry enough snacks that will last you the whole trip. You'll never know when's the next stopover. Munching on something may also prevent motion sickness.

8. Keep hydrated, whether you're braving a low impact hike or just sitting in an airplane (cabin air is very dry). Don't think that lessening your fluid intake will also lessen your trips to the rest room. When the uterus grows, it presses on the urinary bladder. So either way, you'll still feel like peeing.

9. While constructing an itinerary, make sure your plans are easy to change. Avoid booking tours far ahead. Since I got pregnant, I experienced the most insane mood swings ever! One day I might be up for exploration, but the next, I don't feel like getting out of bed at all.

10. Drop the backpack and switch to strollers. It will give you back pain.

Pregnancy does not have to mean confinement. Just follow your Ob-Gyne's reminders and everything shall be fine. Now life on the road goes on.

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