Travel to Developing Countries - Traveling with Health Problems

Pregnancy alters a woman's immune system. Before traveling to any country with health risks, pregnant women should note the following:

Avoid live vaccines, unless the pregnant traveler plans to visit an area endemic for yellow fever. Women in their first trimester should not receive any vaccines at all.
Pregnant women should be certain they are immune to rubella (German measles) before taking a cruise. Outbreaks of have been reported on cruise ships; this normally harmless disease can cause fetal damage if a pregnant woman contracts it.
Take strict precautions against mosquitoes it traveling to countries where malaria occurs. Pregnant women appear to be at higher risk for malaria than non-pregnant women.
Use portable water filters instead of iodine tables for purifying water.

In considering air travel, pregnant women should consider the following:

Avoid frequent air travel. During flight, although the emissions are generally considered safe, very slight radiation from cosmic rays occurs.
To avoid hassles during airline travel, carry a letter from the doctor indicating the baby's due date. Most airlines prohibit women who are 35 or more weeks pregnant from flying internationally.
Walk in the aisles during long flights to help prevent blood clots. Wear seat belts low around the hips in case of air turbulence.
Try to avoid travel altogether if expecting multiple births or if there is a history of preeclampsia (pregnancy-induced hypertension) or a high risk for other conditions such as circulatory problems.