Rules and regulations for cruising while pregnant

Rules and regulations for cruising while pregnant may apply.  Be sure that you know the facts before you plan that big trip. If you have a healthy, and normal pregnancy, cruising can make for a safe and relaxing vacation; something that a mom-to -be greatly needs.
Each cruise line has different rules and regulations.  When calling a cruise line, ask them what restrictions apply to pregnant women.

Before you book your ticket and pack your bags you will need to talk to your health provider. Ultimately, your care is in your provider’s hands and your safety, and the baby’s safety is most important.  Your doctor will know if a cruise is in your best interest. If you have had any past medical complications with other pregnancies and birth, such as delivery problems or multiple births, it may be recommended that you not travel.

Most cruise lines don’t allow women in their 3rd trimester to travel on their ship; the beginning of your 7th month. It is important to check with your insurance company to make sure that you will be covered on a cruise ship.  It is a good idea to travel with medical documents that give your due date, explanations or instructions to your pregnancy and any medications that you are taking.  This will help with any problems that may arise when boarding. Also, be sure to find out if a Dr., nurse, and staff will be traveling onboard and if they are qualified to handle your situation, should one arise.  Check with ports that you will be traveling to as well.  Will these ports have a medical facility, if needed?  Be sure to do your homework.

If you are prone to motion sickness, then a cruise may not be for you. Ironically, many symptoms of pregnancy and sea sickness go hand in hand.  The larger the ship the smoother the ride.  Try to reserve a room in the middle of the ship for the most comfort.  It is most important to drink plenty of water and avoid getting dehydrated.  Try to avoid situations that may cause you to feel uneasy, and remember to eat small meals often.  Non-greasy foods, such as crackers, are the best way to go and are more likely to soothe an upset stomach.  An empty stomach can cause more harm than good. You can also ask your medical provider which medications are safe to take, for motion sickness, while pregnant.  Acupressure wristbands are a drug free possibility to keep you from experiencing motion sickness.

Cruise ships, in spite of their regulations, can be quite accommodating to the pregnant woman. A smorgasbord of food awaits your every craving.  Don’t over do it, however, you still need to maintain a proper amount of weight gain, established by you and your doctor.  There is the availability of every exercise that you can imagine; from group or individual exercise training, swimming, yoga, or nice walks along the deck.  Keep it steady and simple.  Pregnancy is not the time to start a vigorous exercise program.

Clothing should be comfortable and versatile. Many cruise lines require dressy attire at dinner.  Take this into consideration; after all, what fit you one month ago is not likely to fit you now.  Whatever you decide to wear, be sure it fits you just before, and during, your cruise. Pregnant women are ever changing.  Take every precaution as you prepare for your cruise for any changes that might occur. Will you be swimming?  Maternity suits are available in the greatest assortment that they ever have been.  You’re only pregnant once with that child, so enjoy every aspect of the cruise and your pregnancy that you possibly can.