Keeping Cool for Two: Surviving Summer When You’re Expecting

Travel Wisely

Summer means much anticipated vacations, but when you have to spend all your time worrying about when and where to eat and pee, the prospect of going somewhere far from home can be daunting.

If possible, opt for air travel rather than a car trip, as you'll be able to stand frequently, walk up and down the cabin aisles, and use the bathroom whenever necessary—but remember that pressurized cabin air will dehydrate you, so grab a bottled water every time the drink cart rolls down the aisle.

Vacation likely means eating all your meals at restaurants, so make safe food choices—nothing too spicy, no undercooked meat, no raw fish, no cheeses that may be unpasteurized, and no prepared foods that may not have been stored at the proper temperatures. Try to stock your hotel room with reliable choices like whole grain cereals, dried fruit, and bottled water.

Use the public bathroom anywhere and everywhere—not that you need to be reminded, with all that water you're drinking. Holding your urine increases the risk of developing bladder or urinary tract infections, to which pregnant women are especially susceptible, and if these minor infections go untreated (with a course of antibiotics proven safe in pregnancy), they can lead to kidney infections.

Finally, consult your doctor before going anywhere for extra safety tips and for advice on what to do if you have an emergency while away from home.