For months you’ve been thinking about diapers, strollers, cribs, onesies, feeding, sleeping, crying, spit-up, lullabies, and names. You’ve thought about stretch marks, taken folic acid and applied cocoa butter and coconut oil to your belly religiously. You’ve been planning out the nursery — perhaps choosing the right color of paint or deciding if a cute jungle theme is suitable. There are many factors to consider when expecting a baby, and sometimes it can be stressful.
You may or may not have considered a babymoon — a vacation you take before your baby arrives — until now, but it may be exactly what you need before you baby is born. Traveling is often inspirational, and going on a babymoon can help you relieve some stress from your life, enjoy your pregnancy, and spend some time with your partner before the baby arrives.
The Right Babymoon for You
Just as there are many options for going on any vacation, you have many options to consider for your babymoon. This mostly depends on the budget you have to spend on a trip and how many days you and your partner can take off from work. Keep in mind the distance you will travel, whether it’s in a car, plane, or other mode of transportation. A trip too far may not be worth it, as you don’t want to spend a few hours uncomfortable on your way to your destination, and flying after 36 weeks is considered dangerous and usually not allowed by airlines.
Ultimately, your babymoon will come down to how you want to spend it. You should try to keep relaxation in mind; don’t book a trip to a tourist city that requires strenuous activities and planning, but instead go somewhere you can sit back and clear your mind. Great babymoon destinations will either have sceneries with calming atmospheres like a beach or forest, or the hotel you stay at will have amenities like pools and spas to help you relax.
Non-traditional parents should also go on a babymoon to enjoy the time of hope and anticipation, as well as enjoy the time before their child arrives. Single mothers can go with friends, parents, or other family, and adoptive parents getting ready to welcome their new child should still go together on a babymoon.
The Best Time to Go
Many expecting parents have found that the second trimester is the best time to go on a babymoon. This point of the pregnancy is ideal because the mother will likely be over morning sickness — at least the worst of it — and will not yet be uncomfortably big. This will allow her to best enjoy the babymoon without having to deal with too many issues.
For adopting parents, the best time to go will be about 2 months before you bring your new child home. This time will be close enough to the reception of your child that you will be able appreciate the time alone with your partner, but not close enough that you will be too stressed out to enjoy it.
Of course, planning your babymoon will depend on your schedule, and you may not be able to control the timing of it. In this case, make it a priority not to think about preparation for the baby, but to stay in the moment and enjoy this time with your partner. Make sure to set boundaries, put a pause on thinking about stressful things when possible, and treat yourself whenever possible.
Health Factors to Consider
Planning a babymoon will also involve precautions for the pregnant mother. There a few health considerations for pregnant women to keep in mind when traveling, including the following:
Prenatal Care
It’s important to maintain your prenatal care while out of town, whether you’re in the early stages of pregnancy or the later ones. Talk to your doctor or prenatal specialist about any health concerns and prenatal supplements and what you can do to keep your baby healthy and safe.
Stomach Concerns
It’s no secret that pregnant women have sensitive stomachs. Between morning sickness, cravings, and a list of foods to stay away from (like sushi and cheese), it is a good idea to plan out your meals. You can stay at a hotel close to a grocery store in case you need anything and check the menus of restaurants before you visit them.
Mental Health
If you struggle with mental health issues, be sure to talk with your doctor before going on your babymoon. Make sure that you like what you plan and don’t just go along with what others say. You can optimize self-care by bringing coping mechanisms, such as essential oils, coloring books, or whatever you prefer, along with you.
Expecting a child is a special time for you and your partner to enjoy. Going on a babymoon can help you both appreciate this stage in your lives and make some special memories together, and learning to treat yourself is an important part of parenthood. With some careful planning and precaution, you can plan the best babymoon for you!
