Airline rules differ for domestic flights and international flights, but generally the cut off date for ravelling is 36 weeks when you're pregnant.
Before you book, check that your GP or midwife is happy for you to travel. High blood pressure or risk of miscarriage will influence their decision.
When you're booking a holiday, avoid locations where you may be vulnerable to diseases that can harm your unborn baby, as the majority of doctors won't immunise you if you're pregnant.
It's important to get the right travel insurance for you and your baby. ‘Take your E111 with you so you can receive treatment in any EU country. And make sure that wherever you go will have the equipment to look after you in an emergency,' advises Dr Townend, a GP, lecturer and writer on travel health.
As soon as you arrive, locate the local doctor, hospital and chemists and find out how all the phones work, in case there is an emergency.
When travelling, wear loose clothes and comfortable shoes as your feet may swell. Choose an aisle seat with easy access to the toilets, as you are more at risk from thrush and bladder infections during pregnancy.
Make sure you drink lots of non-alcoholic drinks to avoid dehydration. Stretch your legs often to avoid back pain, cramps and to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis. When you arrive at your destination, avoid eating any uncooked food, particularly shellfish and always peel any fruit yourself before you eat it. Drink only bottled water to avoid the risk of stomach infections and avoid strenuous sports.
For further information, write to The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, 27 Sussex Place, Regents Park, London, NW1 4RG for their leaflet Travelling in Pregnancy.
For more information, visit www.netdoctor.co.uk.
