Traveling during pregnancy is certainly possible, but please keep the following in mind:
- Be aware that obstetric/medical care is not the same abroad. The distance to a clinic or hospital, and the level of expertise available, vary greatly depending on your destination. Keep this in mind when booking your trip/holiday. If an emergency occurs during your trip, this can also affect your return journey.
- Flying is safe during pregnancy, but the maximum gestational age permitted varies by airline. Upon request, we can provide you with a pregnancy certificate (in English), but this does not guarantee that you will be allowed to fly. This is determined by the airline. We are not permitted to issue a fit-to-fly certificate because we cannot certify that you are healthy at a specific point in time.
Please note: if an emergency occurs during your trip, there is a risk that you will not be allowed to fly back! - Check whether you need to take additional precautions for the area you plan to travel to. Get information from the Municipal Health Service (GGD) and check the website of the National Coordination Center for Travel Advice on topics such as preventing the Zika virus.
Going to a warm destionation? Here are some tips:
- Drink enough! At least 2.5 liters in hot summer weather, and don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Choose water or tea over soft drinks. Don’t eat too much salt, as this increases fluid retention.
- Avoid direct sunlight. If you do go out in the sun, apply a high-factor sunscreen and wear a hat or cap, for example. Pregnant women can develop a so-called pregnancy mask, which causes brown pigmentation spots to appear on the face.
- Take it easy. During pregnancy, it’s more difficult to dissipate heat. You may experience shortness of breath or dizziness more easily. So don’t worry too much and, if possible, take an afternoon nap. Cooling down with a foot bath can also be pleasant.
- Wear light colors and avoid synthetic fabrics. For example, choose cotton or linen.
- Are you breastfeeding? Your baby may also be thirstier, so he or she will probably want to drink more often. So don’t forget to drink more yourself!