A Few Tips for Travel while Pregnant.

Stiff and swollen feet, ankles, and legs are a problem for many passengers on long trips, and especially so for pregnant women. These tips should help you to cope with the problem.

• Wear maternity support hose. You should put on stockings before you get out of bed and keep them on all day. Lie on your back as you pull them on. This will ensure that you start the day right.

• Keep hydrated. Avoid coffee, tea, and pop. Instead, drink water or juice.

• Wear comfortable shoes that have expandable gussets or Velcro-type closures that you can easily loosen.

• Get up and take a short walk down the aisle about once every half hour. This is easiest on a plane if you prebook an aisle seat.

• Elevate your feet whenever possible.

• Every few minutes, lift each leg off the floor as you sit and rotate your foot at the ankle in both directions; then point your toes forward and back a few times. The pumping action will help to keep blood and fluids from pooling in your legs.