Pregnant

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Dr Ritu Choudhary, Lead Consultant, Obs and Gyn, Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Apollo Cradle and Children’s Hospital, Bangalore-Electronic City, told HT Lifestyle that safety is essential, from maintaining hydration to eating clean foods. She said, “With some pro-activeness in choosing the right mode of transport, keeping oneself hydrated, eating clean food, and prioritising safety, expectant mothers can ensure a safe and pleasant journey in monsoons. ” Further, she cautioned that if the conditions worsen, then visit a doctor.

Dr Ritu Choudhary shared eight tips, including essentials ranging from what types of clothes to wear to the preferred seat type on transport:

1. Ask a doctor first

• Always consult the gynaecologist before arranging any travel, especially during the first or third trimester of pregnancy.
• Travel may be prohibited during high-risk pregnancy or at certain stages, depending on individual health conditions.
• Always carry reports and documents of medical history and emergency contact numbers.

2. Selecting proper transportation

• Trains and private vehicles are usually more comfortable and safer than buses or two-wheelers during the monsoon; thus, always prefer those if possible.
• When travelling via flight, always check the airline policies for pregnant women and avoid air travel after 36 weeks of pregnancy.

3. Check the weather and road conditions

• Always check the weather before and look at a weather app or website to get a clearer view of whether to venture out.
• Avoid going out when it is pouring rain, or there are storms or other warnings.
• Long road trips should be further considered by the prospect of wet roads, water pooling, and poor visibility.
• All of these situations drastically increase slipping and falling or getting into a car accident.

4. Prioritise comfort and safety

• Wear loose, cotton clothes and keep a spare set of clothes nearby. Carry waterproof jackets and strong umbrellas.
• Wear anti-slip, comfortable shoes to minimise the risk of slipping on wet surfaces.

5. Maintain hygiene

• The risk of infections like UTIs and gastroenteritis is greater during the monsoon.
• Keep hand sanitisers, wipes, tissues, and a toilet seat disinfectant spray handy.
• Minimise the use of public toilets. Drink clean potable water.

6. Follow a balanced diet

• Pregnancy cravings are normal, but it’s advisable to avoid street food during the monsoon.
• Eating fruits, salads, that are already cut and food that is left uncovered can be risky.
• Oily, spicy, or very salty foods could also trigger heartburn or indigestion.
• Consume freshly cooked food only prepared under hygienic conditions.

7. Ensure protection from mosquitoes

• Dengue and malaria peak during the monsoon season so dress in long-sleeved shirts and apply pregnancy-safe insect repellents.
• Stay away from stagnant water and sleep under a mosquito net on your travels

8. Take breaks during travel

• Extended travel can cause leg cramps, back pain, or fatigue. Remember to take regular breaks from your travels to move and stretch.
• If you are travelling by car, be sure to stop every 1.5–2 hours.
• When booking a train ticket, it is best to book a lower berth for the convenience and safety of getting on and off the train.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.