“We both turned the big 40 in 2010,” she said, “and since my age puts me in the high-risk category, I’ve done a lot of reading on the subject of travel, and discussed it with my physician.”
           
Her doctor – a high-risk specialist – told her the importance of not taking any routine activities casually.  “When it came to travel,” Justine said, “he emphasized the need for me to pay close attention to shortness of breath, staying hydrated, and keeping in close proximity to medical care.”

While pregnancy shouldn’t restrict travel, a new book by Dr. Ari Brown and Beverly Hills OB/GYN Dr. Michele Hakakha, Expecting 411: Clear Answers & Smart Advice for Your Pregnancy (Windsor Peak Press), www.expecting411.com spells out the do’s and don’ts about leaving home for points both near and far. Except for women having high-risk pregnancies or carrying multiples, general guidelines include:

• Flying is fine up to week 36, but airline policies vary.
• Cruise lines consider 23 to 27 weeks acceptable, but this varies too.
• If you travel by bus, train or car, stay at least one hour away from a hospital, and in your ninth month an hour from your doctor, midwife and delivery hospital.
• Camping in a remote area isn’t advised.

• If you’re in the mountains, swimming or even walking, watch for shortness of breath. If you feel tired, stop.
• Don't be shy about "special ordering" in restaurants. Grilled fish or poultry, whole grains like rice, steamed vegetables, and salad will keep you and your baby energized.
• Take frequent pit stops for bathroom and leg stretching.
• Wear practical shoes and comfortable clothes.

Joan Swirsky is a psychotherapist, former OB nurse, and the author of Gift of Life: A Spiritual Companion for the Mother-to-Be.