Traveling for the holidays can be exciting and also stress-inducing. You’re working on packing your suitcase and getting what you need for your big trip.
But what if you could be pregnant? Should you try to take a pregnancy test, or is it too early to know? We’ll help you determine what you can do now and what to consider when traveling.
InnerVisions HealthCare offers same-day appointments and walk-ins, so if you need to stop in for a pregnancy testing appointment, we have you covered. You can also contact us to schedule an appointment for shorter wait times and a guaranteed time slot.
All of our appointments are completely no-cost because we exist to serve women in the Des Moines area.
To Test or Not to Test?
If you’re packing your bag but now wonder whether to test or not as you prepare for your trip, your period should be the key indicator. Have you missed it yet?
We recommend taking a pregnancy test the day after your missed period. However, sometimes it can take a little longer to test positive. If you receive a negative test result and your period hasn’t arrived, consider retesting in a few days.
If you want, you could try an early detection test, but keep in mind that they are not always accurate. The accuracy of some tests is approximately 77% six days before a missed period, and the accuracy increases as you approach your missed period.
Any Concerns About Air Travel?
If you are early in your pregnancy (before 36 weeks), you can travel by air without much concern. However, it’s a bit complex if you’re unsure whether you’re pregnant or not yet.
Typically, women are advised to talk with their doctors about air travel when pregnant, especially if they have a history of miscarriage, severe anemia, or high blood pressure. Wearing compression socks and walking down the aisle every hour during the flight is a good idea for preventing blood clots.
What if I’m Planning to Drive?
You can drive like you normally do when you’re pregnant, but you may feel nauseous or experience morning sickness during early pregnancy. Stay hydrated and bring snacks to settle your stomach.
If the car ride is going to be multiple hours long, the same rules apply as for air travel: make sure to get out of the car, stretch your legs, and walk every hour.
InnerVisions HealthCare Can Help You
Schedule an appointment at InnerVisions HealthCare for highly accurate pregnancy testing once you miss your period. We can answer your questions and confirm your pregnancy with an ultrasound if you don’t have medical contraindications and you test positive.
We understand how stressful this can be when you’re unsure, but soon you will have the answer. Remember that other conditions can resemble pregnancy symptoms, so if you have not tested positive yet, you may not be pregnant.
Give it some time, and if you miss your period, we can get you in right away for a pregnancy test. Walk-ins and same-day appointments are available at no cost.