Babymoons

First comes love. Then comes marriage. Then—if you’re smart—you go on a vacation to celebrate that soon-to-be baby in a baby carriage. That’s right. A babymoon, the act of parents-to-be going on a romantic getaway before their baby is born, has become all the rage—and for good reason. Getting away from job stress, house projects and all the work that comes from preparing for an epic life change helps couples refocus their energies on enjoying one another and reveling in what could possibly be their last vacation alone in quite some time. 

“Transitioning to parenthood can be stressful, but dedicating a vacation to reconnecting can help you be playful with each other again,” says couples counselor and professor Sabitha Pillai-Freedman, Ph.D.

Local parents couldn’t agree more. For Shawnee residents Paul and Lindsey Montello, trading Kansas City’s cold and blustery February landscape for San Antonio’s more temperate climate was just what the doctor ordered. “We flew down. My doctor was cool with it. I was in my second trimester and felt great.” Lindsey says. “We walked a lot and did several fun things throughout the city. However, knowing what I know now, I would totally do things differently...hit the spa, go to the beach, eat, sleep and that’s it! After all, life after a baby is super tiring!” 

Parkville parents of two, Kyler and Mindy Keith chose a destination with sand and surf when they were expecting their first. The main objective? To keep things as laid back as possible. “We went to Cabo.” Mindy says. “I was 7 months pregnant, and the doctor said it was no problem. I spent the week digging sand holes for my belly so I could lay out. It was one of the best weeks of my life. My advice would be do it! And use the excuse that you’re pregnant to actually do as little as possible.”

While the ocean beckons many a traveler, it was the mountains that called to Merriam parents Ben and Cassie Nichols. “We rented a cabin by a stream in Colorado when I was 6 months pregnant with our first. It was amazing.” Cassie says. “I highly recommend a babymoon!” 

If with-child wanderlust gets the better of you, keep these factors in mind before booking your flight. As always, consult with your doctor about your travel plans. The American Academy of Obstetricians and Gynecologists does not recommend air travel past 36 weeks, while some doctors recommend taking an even more conservative approach.  If you are given the green light to pack your bags, consider planning your trip during the second trimester, when morning sickness typically subsides, energy is at its peak and a burgeoning baby bump isn’t all that uncomfortable. 

Choose a destination that appeals to both you and your partner. Ideas may include:

The beach. Powder soft sand and crystal clear water not only provide the perfect spot for romantic walks at sunset but also can be good for Baby. A recent British study found that children with vitamin D-deficient mothers have low bone mass. Taking in beachy sunshine, the richest source of vitamin D, may be just the thing to ward off that concern (just keep in mind that a mother’s skin may be particularly sensitive, so don’t forget to pack the sunscreen!). 

A cruise. Looking to escape the endless cycles of cooking and cleaning? Book a cruise where everything is done for you, and each day ushers in new breathtaking views from the deck. Cruising is an excellent first or second trimester vacation, but note that many cruise lines have policies that don’t allow pregnant women past 24-27 weeks because of a lack of neonatal care on board. 

The mountains. A rustic rendezvous can have a romantic quality all its own. Summertime is a perfect time to book with a mountain resort, where pregnant women can participate in outdoor activities ranging from guided nature walks to swimming. Pack clothing that layers well since hormonal changes in pregnant women are known to produce body temperature changes. Don’t forget to stay hydrated and be aware that, at a higher elevation where there is less oxygen in the air, shortness of breath (a common pregnancy ailment) can become even more pronounced. Most doctors recommend avoiding destinations with an altitude of 8,000 feet or greater.

The city. Getting away doesn’t have to mean avoiding civilization. Hitting another metropolis gives parents-to-be the opportunity to try new restaurants, see shows or visit museums and other urban attractions. 

A staycation. If your budget or doctor’s orders have you parking it closer to home, don’t lament. Instead, opt to be a tourist in your own town. Staying local not only saves money but also benefits the local economy. By establishing a start and end date, couples can disconnect from work and daily responsibilities just like they would on vacation…all from home. Looking for creative ways to discover KC together? Check out KCParent.com for a slew of creative date ideas!

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. 

--------------------------------------------Pregnancy Travel Tips---------------------------------------------

Feeling green? Keep gum, sea bands, Dramamine, ginger chews or hard candy on hand to help combat nausea and motion sickness. 

Buckle up! The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends pregnant women move their seats as far back as they will go (tilting them slightly as well) to avoid belly/dashboard collisions. Don’t forget to place your seat belt under your abdomen, on your hips.

Keep moving.  No matter how you travel, avoid crossing your legs (to decrease the chance of blood clots) and get up every couple of hours to promote good circulation.

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Olathe mom Lauren Greenlee was on bedrest her last two pregnancies. She considers binge-watching Lost with her husband the closest thing they got to a babymoon.