Pregnant at Conference...go or No???

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SUMMARY

Attending a National Conference or Leadership Summit while eight months pregnant raises significant considerations regarding health and comfort. Participants emphasize the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before making travel decisions, as airlines often have restrictions for pregnant travelers. Many shared personal experiences, noting that while some managed to attend conferences at similar stages of pregnancy, the physical demands, including extensive walking and limited seating, can be challenging. Ultimately, the consensus is to prioritize safety and well-being over attendance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of airline travel policies for pregnant women
  • Knowledge of personal health considerations during late pregnancy
  • Familiarity with the physical demands of attending large conferences
  • Awareness of available accommodations for pregnant attendees, such as wheelchairs
NEXT STEPS
  • Research airline guidelines for pregnant travelers, especially regarding travel after 35 weeks
  • Consult with a healthcare provider about travel safety during late pregnancy
  • Explore options for accommodations at conferences, including wheelchair availability
  • Investigate refund policies for conference registration and travel expenses in case of cancellation
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for expectant mothers considering travel for professional events, healthcare professionals advising pregnant patients, and event organizers looking to accommodate pregnant attendees effectively.

OhmyDLM
OhmyDLM
Silver Member
Messages
374
Has anyone ever attended a National Conference or Leadership Summit when they were considerably pregnant? I'll be 8 months along but would hate to miss out on such a wonderful event, not to mention there will be a lot of celebrating to do this year on my team and with sister consultants. I hate to miss it!

What are everyone's thoughts? I'm from Maine and there are no direct flights, nor do I think airlines would let you fly that pregnant. Would a road trip that long at 8 months be out of the question?
 
Talk to your doctor and see what he recommends. If it were me, I wouldn't go that close to delivery. When I had DS I was afraid to go 1 hour south of here to visit my hubby's grandmom when I was that pregnant :)
 
Last time I was PG my Doc said no travel after 35 weeks. Driving might require lots of pee breaks. lol.

I went camping an hour away 3 weeks before my due date. BUt, I don't think I would have left my state. You will feel sooo different when the time is there, you may not even want to go.
 
OhmyDLM said:
Has anyone ever attended a National Conference or Leadership Summit when they were considerably pregnant? I'll be 8 months along but would hate to miss out on such a wonderful event, not to mention there will be a lot of celebrating to do this year on my team and with sister consultants. I hate to miss it!

What are everyone's thoughts? I'm from Maine and there are no direct flights, nor do I think airlines would let you fly that pregnant. Would a road trip that long at 8 months be out of the question?
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See what your doctor says. If you are safe to fly, check the airline guidlines. Some require a written note from your doc.
 
There is A LOT of walking too.
 
OH there is walking??? Hmm, at the end it is SOOO much effort to walk!! Put shoes on, all the basics...Actually now that I think of it, it was better to walk then to get in and out of cars. I used to choose to walk long distances rather than get back in the car. DH thought I was crazy.

Sorry, not trying to scare you, I am currently 9 weeks PG and thinking of all the fun that is to come for me soon. How far along are you Darcy? I could do the math, but that would take way too much effort. :)
 
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  • #7
PCMelissa said:
How far along are you Darcy? I could do the math, but that would take way too much effort. :)
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Ha Ha, I'd rather have someone tell me than do the math too! I'm 16 1/2 weeks right now. I should be about 35 weeks at conference...

I know things will change and I'll definately be consulting with my doc who I know is going to tell me not to go LoL, but I WANT TO SOOOO BAD! There's just way too much going on with my over all team this year I can't even begin to imagine missing out on it and seeing all the people I've cheered on and supported throughout the years cross the stage and get that special recognition!
 
PCMelissa said:
OH there is walking??? Hmm, at the end it is SOOO much effort to walk!! Put shoes on, all the basics...Actually now that I think of it, it was better to walk then to get in and out of cars. I used to choose to walk long distances rather than get back in the car. DH thought I was crazy. Sorry, not trying to scare you, I am currently 9 weeks PG and thinking of all the fun that is to come for me soon. How far along are you Darcy? I could do the math, but that would take way too much effort. :)
Click to expand...
BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!(only laughing Melissa, because we literally walk MILES every day at conference!)
 
OhmyDLM said:
Ha Ha, I'd rather have someone tell me than do the math too! I'm 16 1/2 weeks right now. I should be about 35 weeks at conference...

I know things will change and I'll definately be consulting with my doc who I know is going to tell me not to go LoL, but I WANT TO SOOOO BAD! There's just way too much going on with my over all team this year I can't even begin to imagine missing out on it and seeing all the people I've cheered on and supported throughout the years cross the stage and get that special recognition!
Click to expand...


Hmmmm, I had my baby @ 35 weeks.....
 
I had mine at 36 weeks, but I had considerable trouble throughout the pg. My oldest dd was born @ 39 weeks & I definitely could have gone to conf at 35 weeks with her. Not with my other 2 though. :)
 
I went to conference two years ago when I was 34 weeks and it wasn't too bad. My doctor allowed me to fly, so that was just a little uncomfortable (I flew from California!), and the walking was a little hard. Of course it is so much easier when you are not pregnant, but if I was the same amount of weeks along, I'd do it again.

This year I am due at the end of July, so it's too close for me to attend! :cry:
 
Darcy~

I agree with others here...go with your doctor's say so, and by how you feel. I know that's hard to plan how YOU will be doing in July, but that would be my advice. Evan was born at 36 weeks and I had worked up till Friday, April 1st and went into labor that Sunday. I don't think I would have been traveling at that point, though. I know it sucks, but remember that your safety and the baby's safety are priority here! (I know you know this...just reminding you!! LOL) Good luck deciding!
 
A consultant in our group went when she was 6 months pregnant last year. She had a wonderful time. I really didn't think it was that much walking but then again, I'm used to that kind of stuff.
 
Yes, there is a lot of walking. I don't mind doing it, but I wasn't pregnant. I noticed there wasn't a lot of places to sit around when waiting, too. I remember sitting on the floor with some people right by the check in area while we were going through our new conference bag. No place to sit when waiting for the buses, either. Only once did I wait a really long time for a bus. Just FYI.
 
Wheelchairs are also available but you'd need to have that arranged ahead of time I think.
 
My director went when she was prego w/baby #4 and about 34-36 weeks. She was swelling and was pushed in a wheelchair most of the time.
 
You may want to wait as long as you can to decide. I haven't been to conference but I am only one week from delivering my third. I stayed very active (obviously this is #3! LOL!) I felt really good at eight months. I think it was b/c I was so active this time. As long as you can fly and fell up to it I would? If something changes could you get a refund on reg. fee and the plane ticket?
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to attend a conference while pregnant?

Generally, attending a conference while pregnant is safe, but it depends on your individual health and pregnancy circumstances. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that traveling and attending events won't pose any risks to you or your baby.

What should I consider before deciding to go to the conference?

Consider factors such as your due date, how you're feeling physically, the location of the conference, and the availability of medical facilities nearby. Additionally, think about the amount of walking or standing required and whether you can take breaks as needed.

Are there any specific accommodations for pregnant attendees at conferences?

Many conferences offer accommodations for pregnant attendees, such as accessible seating, designated rest areas, and the option to attend virtual sessions. It's a good idea to reach out to the conference organizers ahead of time to discuss any specific needs you may have.

What if I experience discomfort or fatigue during the conference?

If you start to feel uncomfortable or fatigued, listen to your body and take breaks as needed. Don't hesitate to step out of sessions or find a quiet place to rest. It's important to prioritize your health and well-being during the event.

Can I network and participate in activities while pregnant?

Absolutely! Many pregnant attendees successfully network and participate in activities at conferences. Just be mindful of your energy levels and choose activities that you feel comfortable with. Networking can also be done in a more relaxed setting, so don't hesitate to reach out to others during breaks or social events.

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