Day 113 of 280, second trimester
You are 16 weeks and 1 day
This is considered a safe stage of pregnancy with few or no symptoms, so it's a great time for a vacation.
167 days until your due date
You're probably over the sickness and tiredness of the first trimester and not yet weighed down by a big belly. You can also relax knowing your baby is developing well, with very little chance of miscarriage. A vacation is a great chance to spend quality time with your partner and pamper yourselves.
Relax and enjoy yourself, but take the extra health precautions pregnancy needs. If you've had any complications, check with your doctor that it's safe to go.
You can enjoy hot climates, but you may be more comfortable in the shade. If you're in the sun, wear a high-SPF sunscreen, because your skin is likely to be more sensitive during pregnancy.
There are a few extra things to consider, not least that you may have less energy than before:
- Give yourself plenty of time for all the pre-vacation preparations at home and work, which can be stressful. Pack flight hand luggage sensibly so you don't have to carry heavy bags.
- Plan car trips carefully, allowing for more bathroom and snack stops than usual.
- Sightseeing will be more tiring than usual, so pace yourself and take time out in a café watching the world go by.
- Abroad, drink plenty of bottled water, especially in hot climates, and avoid ice in drinks, since it's usually made with tap water.
Focus on
Safety: Enjoy a healthy vacation
- Peel fruit, or wash fruit and vegetables in bottled water.
- If you get diarrhea, it's even more important than usual to drink plenty of water to replace lost fluid. Don't take anti-diarrhea medication without checking with your doctor, and see a doctor if your urine is very concentrated and you can't keep fluids down.
Read the full 16 weeks pregnant guide
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.