Longhaul travel to West Indies - early Pregnancy

[mamaandmore]

Hello!

We've just discovered we're PG (hurray!), however have already booked a trip to Trinidad & Tobago which would mean flying long haul at week 10.

Also, have read that you're usually advised to take Malaria tablets, but both Malaria and Malaria tablets are no good for babies in tummies. I'm originally from Trini, and never had nor know of anyone getting Malaria there but obviously conflicting advice online.

Anyone have any thoughts? Unfortunately we can't do the flight any later. Help!

Congratulations! Be prepaired for the fact that you'll still be feeling very tired at 10wks. On the flight drink loads of water and also when you're there maintain good hydration. With regards to the malaria risk, I'd just cover up in the evening and use natural anti mosquito products. Citronella candles etc.

I'm pretty sure you don't need to take anti-malarials for tobago, but not sure about trinidad. I guess it depends where you are travelling in trini? The WHO website will probably have up to date info.

Best advice I could offer is not to get bitten - anti mosi sprays and long trousers and long sleeves from dusk onwards is best. Don't forget to spray your ankles, face and neck! Avon Skin so Soft works for some people if you are looking for something without Deet.

Congratulations! Flying at 10 weeks should be no problem, but as bumbums said, you may be tired (or you may be lucky, and not!).

My cousin is a Trini, and had malaria there as a child, so it does exist. I think I heard that they have had recent outbreaks there.

Avon Skin So Soft is unlikely to work properly against Trini mozzies (it doesn't really work against ours in the Virgin Islands) and you really, really do NOT want to get malaria or dengue fever. Take a net for the nights, or check that the place you stay will have one. You will likely be able to get a mozzie spray with picaridin, which is not as nasty as deet but is very effective. If you do go with deet, don't worry - you're far better off having a little bit of deet exposure than getting malaria or dengue. NB: wear repellent night and day, as dengue mozzies are out in the daytime.

Other advice: get some of those flight socks for the trip to stop your feet and ankles from swelling and to reduce the risk of DVTs. (You're more prone to them when pregnant).

And make absolutely sure that you have good travel insurance which covers you for pregnancy.

HTH