Most pregnant women can travel safely until close to their due date. But the guidelines for traveling can vary, based on how far along you are, your level of discomfort, your methods and destination of travel, and whether your pregnancy is high risk. Talk to your doctor before you begin to plan your trip — certain kinds of travel during pregnancy may not be recommended if you have health problems that need special medical care.

Before departing, ask your doctor for:

• A full checkup
• The name of a doctor in the area where you will be staying in case of an emergency
• A copy of your medical record to take with you
• A list of safe nonprescription medications, such as motion-sickness pills or laxatives

If you're traveling overseas, make sure:

• You have all necessary immunizations
• You know whether the food and water are safe at your destination
• Your medical insurance is valid overseas
• You are aware of symptoms that may indicate contraction of a disease

Safety Issues
If you're having a healthy pregnancy, have gotten your doctor's okay, and have received your essential medical information, there aren't many extra safety precautions that need to be taken.

Despite many people's fears, flying is generally safe during pregnancy. Most airlines in the United States allow pregnant women to fly up to 36 weeks. Metal detectors used for airport security checks are not harmful to the fetus and, contrary to an old wives tale, bumpy rides on a plane, train, or bus do not induce labor.

The one essential safety precaution is to wear a seat belt. A lap-shoulder belt is ideal, but if only a lap belt is available, use it. Place the lap belt under your abdomen and across your upper thighs so that it fits as snugly and comfortably as possible. Put the shoulder belt between your breasts and across your shoulder. Adjust your seat so that the belt doesn't rub your neck. Never slip the shoulder belt off your shoulder. Seat belts worn too loosely or too high on the abdomen can cause broken ribs or injure your abdomen.

Some women worry that a seat belt will hurt the fetus if the car stops quickly or if there is an impact. Unless the mother has a serious injury, the fetus is not likely to be harmed. The baby is cushioned in a fluid-filled sac inside the uterus, which is protected by muscles, organs and bones. If you are in a car accident, though, you should see your doctor to make sure that you and your baby are okay.