Taking the train to travel is much safer for pregnant women. Unfortunately, taking the train can take longer so that pregnant women are exhausted. To anticipate this, let's find out what pregnant women need to consider before traveling by train.
Trains can be called one of the safe and comfortable means of transportation during pregnancy. The movement of the train that follows the rails keeps pregnant women from getting dizzy and nauseated as well as traffic jams. Plus, pregnant women can enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
However, there are some things that pregnant women should pay attention to before traveling by train, so that the trip becomes more comfortable and safe.
Knowing the Safe Gestational Age to Ride the Train
To travel long distances, PT Kereta Api Indonesia requires pregnant women to have entered the gestational age of 14–28 weeks (second trimester). In addition, pregnant women must also be ensured in a healthy condition and there are no abnormalities.
Pregnant women with a gestational age of less than 14 weeks or more than 28 weeks are required to attach a doctor's certificate stating the pregnancy is in good health.
Pregnant women are also required to be accompanied by at least 1 adult passenger in case something happens, as well as to help pregnant women carry their luggage when a porter is not available.
If you are pregnant with twins, you should not travel after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Pregnant women also need to postpone the trip if they experience bleeding, abdominal pain or cramps, swelling, headaches, visual disturbances, or other disorders in pregnancy.
Guide to Riding the Train While Pregnant
Pregnant women must choose the type of train that makes them comfortable. Executive trains may be more comfortable for pregnant women than economy or business trains. In the executive train, pregnant women can more easily stretch their legs and get blankets and pillows.
Regardless of the type of train that pregnant women choose, consider the following guidelines so that pregnant women can be comfortable and safe during their trip:
1. Choose a comfortable place
Although a chair near the aisle makes it easier for pregnant women to get up and walk, choosing a chair near the window will reduce the risk of pregnant women being exposed to germs from chairs that people tend to touch more when walking in the aisle.
In addition, a seat near the window will be much more comfortable because pregnant women can see the scenery along the way. We recommend that you book tickets online on line so that pregnant women can choose the seat position that pregnant women like.
2. Sit and sleep in a comfortable position during the trip
If you take the economy train, it's okay to ask for and pay for an extra pillow for the comfort of the pregnant woman. In addition, try to walk at least every 1 hour to improve blood circulation in the legs. While sleeping, pregnant women can straighten and slightly raise their legs using the bag as a support.
3. Avoid mileage that is too long
Estimate how long pregnant women will be sitting in the train. It is recommended that pregnant women travel by train for no more than 5–6 hours.
4. Bring a drink or food
Don't forget to bring your own drinking water, heavy food, and snacks so that pregnant women are safe from bacterial contamination. Instead, choose dry foods that are nutritious and can last a long time during the trip, such as whole-wheat crackers or nuts.
Pregnant women also need to consume enough mineral water during the trip. Avoid caffeinated drinks, such as coffee, tea, or fizzy drinks. Besides being able to make pregnant women thirsty faster, this drink can make pregnant women urinate more often.
5. Wear comfortable clothes and footwear
Choose clothes and footwear that are comfortable and make it easier for pregnant women to maintain balance when walking in the train. Also, consider the temperature of the train, which can be very cold or very hot.
6. Bring your medicine, supplements, and doctor's contact number
Do not forget to bring medicines or supplements that are usually consumed in a special place that is easily accessible. In addition, make sure pregnant women keep the phone number of the obstetrician who usually handles pregnant women so they can be contacted at any time.
It's also a good idea for pregnant women to bring a record of information on the obstetrical examination. This will be very helpful if pregnant women may need to be checked at their destination. Pregnant women are also advised not to carry heavy luggage alone to avoid the risk of injury.
To avoid exposure to bacteria or viruses in the toilet, always provide disinfectant, hand sanitizer, wet tissue, and dry tissue to make it easier for pregnant women to clean themselves.
By paying attention to the train ride guide for pregnant women, it is hoped that the pregnant woman's journey can run smoothly and safely. Before traveling, it is better for pregnant women to consult a gynecologist first.
This is important, especially if the journey is long or the pregnant woman has complications in pregnancy, such as diabetes, hypertension, placental disorders, or has experienced premature labor.
Happy traveling on the train, yes, pregnant women!
