Travel 101

Traveling during pregnancy offers a distinct kind of adventure. While it's a special time, it also presents specific risks and challenges, particularly in unfamiliar environments. This is when having robust travel insurance becomes invaluable, helping to safeguard both your health and peace of mind. 
 

Why is Pregnancy Travel Insurance Important?

Travel insurance is crucial, particularly when you're traveling while pregnant. While unexpected health issues can occur during any travel, the need for prompt and appropriate medical response becomes even more critical when you are expecting. 
 
Changes in hormones impact ligaments and bones, making pregnant travelers more susceptible to injury.1 And with the lowered immune system that may naturally come with pregnancy, you may be more susceptible to travel-borne illnesses.2 

A travel insurance plan with extensive coverage is vital, as it can cover many pregnancy-related medical expenses, should you require care while away from home. It’s particularly important if you’re traveling to destinations where healthcare standards are different from what you’re accustomed to or if there's a risk of diseases that could impact pregnancy. 

In fact, the CDC recommends that pregnant travelers “should strongly consider purchasing supplemental travel health insurance to cover pregnancy-related problems.”₃
 

What Features Should You Look for in a Pregnancy Travel Insurance Policy?

When selecting a pregnancy travel insurance policy, consider several key features to help provide extensive coverage for many common travel and pregnancy-related needs: 

• Medical Coverage for Pregnancy: Verify that the travel insurance plan provides coverage for medical treatments related to pregnancy. This typically includes coverage for complications and childbirth and may cover acute onset of pregnancy-related conditions while traveling. Note that routine prenatal care may not be covered unless specified. 

• Emergency Medical Evacuation: Coverage for emergency medical evacuation is crucial in case you need to be transported to a facility with adequate maternity care or back home for treatment. 

• Hospitalization and Physician Services: Look for a travel insurance plan that includes coverage for hospital stays and physician services in case you require medical attention while traveling. 

• Trip Cancellation: Choose a policy that offers trip cancellation coverage if you're unable to travel due to pregnancy-related issues that arise before your departure, such as medical complications or doctor-advised rest. “Cancel for Any Reason” plans, aka CFAR, often cover pregnancy-related issues that are not defined as a “complication.” 

• Trip Interruption: Similar to cancellation, trip interruption coverage is important if you need to cut your trip short due to pregnancy-related medical advice or emergencies. 

• Pre-Existing Conditions Clause: Understand the terms related to pre-existing conditions to know if any pregnancy-related conditions you have prior to purchasing the policy are covered. 

• Repatriation of Remains: In the unfortunate event of a death, repatriation coverage ensures that the remains can be returned home. 

• 24/7 Assistance Services: Access to 24/7 assistance can be invaluable, providing help in coordinating medical care and making necessary travel adjustments. 

• Coverage Limits: Carefully review the coverage limits to ensure they are adequate for potential costs in the destinations you are traveling to. Healthcare costs can vary dramatically by country. 

• Policy Exclusions: Be aware of any policy exclusions, which might include certain stages of pregnancy, so you're not caught off guard. 

• Duration of Coverage: Ensure the policy covers the entire duration of your trip, from departure to return. 

 
Remember to read your policy documents carefully and consider your specific travel plans and pregnancy needs when choosing a policy. If in doubt and need clarification, just reach out to us. We’re always happy to help! 
 

How to Prepare for Travel with Baby on Boar

When getting ready for travel during pregnancy, taking some extra precautions can help ensure a safe and comfortable trip. 
 
A pre-travel consultation with your healthcare provider 
Start here. Meet with your provider to discuss your itinerary and any medical concerns. They can advise you on necessary vaccinations and provide a letter confirming your due date and fitness to travel. Be sure to carry a copy of your prenatal records and your physician’s contact information in case you need care while away. 

Your provider can also guide you on how to manage minor pregnancy discomforts and recognize more serious complications that may require immediate medical attention. 

It's recommended to arrange for obstetric care at your destination, particularly if you're traveling in the third trimester or have a high-risk pregnancy. Also, research and understand your travel insurance policy, ensuring it covers pregnancy-related health issues and includes medical evacuation insurance. 
 

Packing Essentials for Comfort & Safety

Create a travel health kit tailored to your needs, including medications safe for pregnancy, such as acetaminophen for pain or fever and prenatal vitamins, as well as items that aid in comfort like graduated compression stockings to prevent deep vein thrombosis. Make sure you have ample supplies of any prescription medications you're taking, and consider carrying non-prescription remedies like ginger or vitamin B6 for morning sickness. 
 
For your comfort and safety, wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes. Consider upgrading to seating that allows for more space and more convenient access to the lavatory. 

Finally, familiarize yourself with the healthcare facilities at your destination, especially if you're traveling to remote or less developed areas. With thoughtful planning and preparation, pregnant travelers can significantly reduce the risks and stresses associated with travel. 

Life is full of uncertainties. Having coverage for medical emergencies, such as unexpected hospital visits or sudden health changes, can provide significant reassurance during this important phase of your life. 

 

How to Deal with Travel Discomforts During Pregnancy 

If you have concerns for unforeseen pregnancy complications, always consult your doctor before traveling. Here are some simple ways to make your trip more comfortable: 

1. Prevent Leg Swelling: Long flights or car rides can cause swelling in your legs during pregnancy. Wear compression stockings which help improve circulation and reduce swelling. Also stand up and walk around every hour or so especially on long flights to keep the blood flowing. 

2. Ease Back Pain: Back pain is a common problem for pregnant women, more often during the later stages. Sit in a seat with good back support. Use a small pillow or rolled up blanket for lumbar support. 

3. Stay Hydrated and Eat Small Snacks: Nausea can be a real challenge during the first trimester. Keep snacks like crackers or ginger ale with you to settle your stomach. Stay hydrated by sipping water regularly which can also help prevent nausea and dehydration, both of which are common travel issues. 

4. Manage Medical Conditions: If you have gestational diabetes, plan ahead. Pack enough snacks that fit your diet and monitor your blood sugar levels regularly. Always have any required medication with you and keep them in your carry-on for easy access. 

5. Take Breaks: Whether you’re driving or flying, take breaks and stretch often. This will help reduce the risk of blood clots and keep you comfortable throughout your trip. 

Inform your travel insurance company of your pregnancy and check if your policy covers any medical treatment related to your trip. 

Extending Travel Insurance Coverage Due to Pregnancy Complications 

In the event that complications prevent you from returning home before your due date, many policies allow for an extension of coverage. This ensures that any medical care you need due to pregnancy complications is covered by travel insurance. It’s a good idea to contact your insurance provider as soon as you know that your trip might be extended, so they can guide you through the process and update your policy if needed. 
 

Need Help Choosing a Travel Protection Plan?

Consult one of our licensed representatives or our 24/7 multilingual travel insurance advisors to discover the right coverage for your next trip. Whether you need pregnancy travel insurance or Trip Cancellation Protection, our team of travel experts will provide a tailored insurance quote and assist you in finding the appropriate coverage. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance for Pregnancy
 

1. What kind of travel insurance coverage should pregnant travelers look for?

Pregnant travelers should seek travel insurance policies that cover pregnancy-related medical expenses, emergency medical evacuations, and trip cancellations or interruptions due to pregnancy complications. 

2. What “Complications” are covered?

The definition of eligible complications can vary state-by-state so it’s important that you speak with an agent to completely understand your policy. Complications of Pregnancy are generally conditions that require hospitalization. Complications do not include things like morning sickness, false labor, or occasional spotting. 

3. Are there eligibility criteria for pregnant travelers in travel insurance policies?

Yes, travel insurance policies often specify eligibility criteria, including restrictions based on the stage of pregnancy. Some travel insurers may not provide coverage beyond a certain week of gestation. 

4. Do travel insurance policies cover all pregnancy-related issues?

Coverage for pregnancy-related issues can vary, and there may be exclusions, especially concerning pre-existing conditions. It is essential to review the travel insurance policy's terms and conditions regarding pregnancy coverage. 

5. What is the process for filing a claim in case of a pregnancy-related emergency while traveling?

In the event of a pregnancy-related emergency, you should contact your travel insurer immediately for guidance on covered services and to initiate the claims process. Having essential medical documents and emergency contacts on hand is also crucial.

6. Does AXA Travel Insurance offer plans for pregnant travelers?

Yes. Whether you’re looking for a domestic travel insurance quote or an international travel insurance policy, AXA provides travel insurance plans that can be suitable for pregnant travelers. Benefits may include trip cancellation, emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and more. Contact us today. We will help you find a suitable plan for your upcoming trip. 
Pregnant travelers should carefully review the official policy documents for complete coverage details, terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions for COVID travel insurance. Need clarification or assistance? Our licensed reps are here to help you 24/7. 

7. How can pregnant travelers ensure their travel insurance meets their needs?

Pregnant travelers should carefully review the official policy documents for complete coverage details, terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions. Call us 24/7 for clarification or assistance. 

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Physical demands during work. Retrieved March 11, 2024, from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/reproductive-health/prevention/physical-demands.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/repro/physicaldemands.html. 

2. American Pregnancy Association. (n.d.). Getting sick while pregnant. Retrieved March 11, 2024, from https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/getting-sick-while-pregnant/ 

3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Pregnant travelers. In CDC Yellow Book 2024: Health information for international travel. Retrieved March 11, 2024, from https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/family/pregnant-travelers 

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