How close to due date would you travel?

[ChessyEvans]

Hi, I've been looking at getting away for a few days with DH before our lives change forever with the arrival of our first baby! Due date (according to midwives) is 19th April although I think it will be later than this - my sums make it around 23rd.

I have found my perfect getaway - to the Scillies. Problem is that they don't start ferrying people over until 26th March so I would be nearly 37 weeks by then I think? Would only be going for a short break.

So... would you do this?! It's our first baby so I understand statistically is likely to be late (trying to justify!!). Or do you think I should ditch the idea and look to go somewhere that doesn't require a ferry?!

Thanks

Not sure I believe the first babies always late thing any more, out of three friends having first babies in January all have been either early on just on time!!

The way I look at these things 37 weeks is officially full term, so it depends on how comfortable you are at the thought of having your baby in the Scillies, because although there is a good chance it won't happen there is also a fair chance that it will.

Well, I think you need to look at it from the point of view of how you would feel/what you would do if baby did come early. S/he probably won't, but lots do!

If you're happy with the hospital and medical provision available locally to where you are going, or happy that you can get back v quickly at the first sign of anything happening, then there is no reason not to go. Also options (practical/financial/emotional etc.) if you did have the baby there - where would DH stay (can you afford a few extra nights in a hotel?), etc. However, if you're not happy with any of these things, then I would be re-thinking.

I am now 37+3 and to be honest probably wouldn't deliberately choose to be a ferry ride away from hospitaly and the rest of my family, but that's just me, lots of people do! I would be perfectly happy to be a couple of hours drive away (i.e. somewhere else in the UK on a weekend break etc.).

D

Have the same experience as thefurryone that lately I am only hearing stories of early babies, even first ones, so that might have affected my stance on this!

D

I came early on my first I went into labor 12 days early he was born 11 days early. My second was 10 days late I personally dont think it matters if it is a 1st 2nd E.T.C you can still go either early or late, I personally wouldn't risk it and would stick to this country.

You could always go earlier and use the helicopter, they fly most days thru the year, bit more pricey but only a 20 minute journey and good fun way to get there. Would be a beautiful place to have a pre baby romantic weekend away...I'd go for it.

I was thinking about the helicopter / flying mama but not sure I'd like it! Could be a good option though, will have a look at it. Could fly from closer to home then as well so a bit less travelling.

Hmmm so general consensus is that it's a bit close. I wouldn't genuinely relax and enjoy it if I was panicking about every twinge etc I suppose!

Any other suggestions for destinations if we're staying on mainland then? We're in Bristol / Bath area. We were thinking Wales or Cornwall initially but couldn't find anywhere 'unspoiled' enough (in our budget!!).

DD arrived very unexpectedly at 33+5 so second time round I'm not going anywhere after 30weeks!!