Step by step guide to: Travelling in London while pregnant

London Underground

If you live in London and have recently found out that you are pregnant, you are probably thinking ‘Oh gosh, public transport while pregnant will be a nightmare!’ London transport really can be a nightmare, especially the tube. The London underground can be extremely busy during rush hour and there is a great chance that you will be pulled and shoved. But, if you need to take the tube or bus don’t panic. The experience doesn’t have to be as stressful as you are imagining it will be. Here is a step by step guide to travelling within London while pregnant.

• If you are travelling in your first trimester you need to be prepared for your pregnancy symptoms, as they can creep up on you at the worst of times. One tip is to make sure that you have snacks in your bag, that doesn’t mean stock up on chocolate, crisps and sweets! Try something light and healthy, opt for dried food, crackers, cereal bars and nuts. It is essential to have these snacks on you, as you may find yourself feeling lightheaded or needing to control your morning sickness. Remember  stay hydrated, make sure you have a bottle of water on you, especially when you’re on the tube, as it can get hot and stuffy.
• Seats – If you are finding that people haven’t noticed that you are pregnant, or you are nervous about people asking people to move then you are in luck! The London transport office has made ‘Baby on board’ badges with the london transport sign to help pregnant women out. These badges also help other passengers know when they should be offering their seats. To  get a badge you can email babyonboard@tfl.gov.uk, go to the customer service desk or call 0845330980.
  

  Baby on board badge

• Avoid Stress! It is easier said than done, but getting yourself worked up over nothing and stressing will just cause more problems. If you find yourself feeling anxious when travelling then try to focus on others things. Try reading a book or listening to some relaxing music to distract yourself, which will help. The last thing you need is to overstress yourself, as it can lead to your baby being underweight or even premature.
• Deep breaths – If you find that you are getting stressed out, take some deep breaths and they will help you to relax  and lower your heart rate.
• Work hours – If you are are working 9-to-5 then you are going to get caught up in rush hour. Ask your boss whether it is possible to change your hours. It never hurts to ask!
• As you are going to be drinking lots of water throughout your pregnancy, make sure you have gone to the toilet before you have started your commute.  There is nothing worse than having to wait in a queue or be bursting for the bathroom and not being able to get to a bathroom in time – remember your bladder isn’t what it used to be!

There is no need to be concerned about travelling, if you follow these 6 steps you will be fine! It is all about preparing yourself for what is ahead and making situations easier for yourself.