I think babymoons are essential in any pregnancy; you and your partner need time together as a couple before the baby comes and takes up so much of your attention. Many people don't know that I used to be a Labor & Delivery nurse. In my career, I delivered over 9,000 babies. So I know a thing or two about staying safe during your pregnancy. Now that I am a travel advisor, I can't help you during labor, but I can help you have a safe and romantic babymoon.
Speak to your doctor before planning any trip.
Before planning a babymoon, the most important thing to do is to speak with your doctor. You don't want to book that romantic getaway to Santorini only to find out that your OB doesn't want you to go. You don't want to put yourself or your baby at risk. If you're carrying multiples or are high risk, your doctor will likely want you to stay home. Many resorts and airlines won't allow you to travel without a doctor's note.
Pick the right time.
Your second trimester will be the sweet point of your pregnancy. Many women are tired and nauseous in the first trimester, and in the third trimester, you will likely feel heavy, swollen, and tired. But the weeks 14-27 of your pregnancy, you should feel well enough to travel.
Pick the right destination.
You want to make sure you are traveling to a destination that is safe for pregnant women. Zika is not in the news much, but you still want to be wary of the virus. I wouldn't recommend traveling to South America while pregnant. You also want to consider the time of year. Do you want to spend your babymoon watching your hubby zipping down the slopes while you sit safely on the sidelines? Probably not. It is a good idea to ask your doctor if your destination is safe for you and the baby before you spend any money. I would also avoid any COVID-19 hotspots.
Check out the hospitals and clinics in your destination.
Five months pregnant is not the time to hike the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu! You want to check out the medical facilities that are in any destination that you are considering. You don't want to go anywhere that doesn't have a hospital within driving distance. If you are heading to the Caribbean, try to choose a resort with medical staff on site.
Determine any travel restrictions.
I mentioned that some airlines and resorts would require a letter from your OB before letting you travel. Most airlines prohibit flying after 36 weeks, even with a letter from your doctor. Cruise lines are notoriously strict with pregnancy guidelines. Most cruise lines will not allow you to sail if you are further than 24 weeks along. Most will not issue refunds unless your MD says it's not safe for you to travel.
Minimize travel time.
Spending hours on end stuck in a plane or car will be nightmarish when you are pregnant! If you are flying, you need to be careful of deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in your legs). I recommend getting up and walking to the restroom every couple of hours. Walking will aid in your circulation and keep your blood pumping, helping to prevent DVT. Also, compressions stockings are a good idea. Don't forget to wear your seatbelt under your bump!
Keep it comfortable.
Don't pack anything you don't currently wear regularly. You will want shoes and clothes that fit and don't cause you any discomfort; it can be difficult to find maternity clothes on vacation.
Pamper yourselves.
Your babymoon might be your last chance to get some quality' me time'. Many resorts offer special babymoon spa packages, so take advantage of them. Soak up every minute you can with your sweetie.
Tell everyone.
Much like your honeymoon, resorts and cruise lines want to make you feel special during your babymoon. If you aren't showing, make sure to let everyone know that you are pregnant, and upgrades and extra amenities will come your way.
Utilize Flytographer.
You will never be more adorable than you are in your second trimester. (Some ladies manage to stay adorable throughout pregnancy. I was not one of them, and my feet were twice their average size those last two weeks!) Since you are so cute, a babymoon is a perfect time to indulge in a travel fashion shoot. And you will have lovely souvenirs to share with your baby when they are finally here.
You have no idea what the future will hold. It is almost impossible to understand how that little bundle of joy will affect your lives when it arrives. I promise you will never regret taking the time to spend quality time together before you go from a couple to a family. A babymoon is a great excuse to see a part of the world that has captured your imagination. You can do as much as you want on your babymoon or nothing at all. It's a great excuse to eat gelato, too! These are my tips for having a safe and romantic babymoon.