International Travel and Pregnancy

Before you depart, talk with your OB-GYN about what types of bug spray are safest for you to use during your pregnancy.

Talking to Your Healthcare Provider

Discuss your plans with your OB-GYN before you travel. If you are taking any medications, makes sure to bring along enough to cover your trip (and even a little extra just in case).

You may also consider bringing along a copy of your basic pregnancy records, advises Dr. Horsager-Boehrer. “If something should happen and you need medical care, a copy of the prenatal record with your lab and sonogram results makes it much easier for a physician to understand how the pregnancy has progressed thus far.”

Traveler’s First-Aid Kit

Avoid purchasing medications in another country, where pharmacies may offer over-the-counter medications that are prescription-only in the US. Pack your own obstetrician-approved survival kit, including medications to treat common travel complaints, such as “an antacid for indigestion, Tylenol for aches and pains, Claritin or Benadryl for allergies, Sudafed or its generic for cold symptoms,” says Dr. Horsager-Boehrer.

If You Get Sick

Before you travel, call you healthcare provider to make sure you know about your coverage. “You can get sick whether you’re walking down the beach in Jamaica or sitting in your living room,” says Dr. Wheeler. “A common complaint in pregnancy is spontaneous bleeding or spotting, which can happen anywhere.”