Yes, first pregnancy. Mom is a healthy 32yo, with some prior back problems but so far ok. She’s an experienced nurse herself and very well informed on pregnancy and medicine in general. And for what it’s worth, none of the elements that would put her at higher risk for premature labor are present.
We’re all thinking about above issues…. Train came up as a possibility because the movement is apparently more smooth and not harmful (in and of itself) to mom or baby—- and less stressful than driving. They (with her husband) could be in a private sleeping cabin – relatively comfortable and laying down and all (seems to me much more pleasant than a car), although you can’t stop on your own as easily. Also a doctor is likely to be on board, and perhaps her midwife or a friend who’s a doctor could come along. Of course, that could also be arranged for the other options, and then the only difference is being ‘on the ground’ – and thus potentially more able to get to a hospital etc.
Apparently planes (at least certain companies) do allow pregnant women until 36 weeks—of course this isn’t recommended and you’d want/need a doctor’s consent, but there are many stories of women who’ve done it without problem. (Actually, if it’s interesting, I came across this website on air travel: http://www.pregnanttraveler.com/articles/04.html)
So….
~ 3.5–4 hours by nonstop plane (if the doc ok’s it) plus airport time, but then you’re stuck in the air if anything happens…
~ 25+ hours of driving, broken up however you please (recommended 6 hrs/day would make it about 4 days)... or
~ 40–50+ hour train trip in a sleeper cabin
Other tips we’ve heard are: walking around frequently (as above), comfy loose clothes, bringing pillows, staying very hydrated, bringing familiar foods with you (as travel often brings a change in diet), and eating plenty of fiber to avoid constipation. Anything else along these lines? What about ideas concerning preventing and dealing with premature labor (in relation to these travel options)? Any other creative solutions?