One of the trends that have been sweeping the United States in recent years has been to have a babymoon. Like a honeymoon, a babymoon is when a couple takes a vacation before their first child is born. It is a time for them to relax, enjoy each other’s company, and get the right mindset to have their child. So, should you and your spouse take a babymoon? We have everything you need to know to make your decision.
When Should You Go?
Answer: Your second trimester.
The second trimester is an ideal time to take a babymoon for many reasons. First, it is when morning sickness has passed. That means you aren’t going to feel miserable every minute of every day and unable to enjoy your time together. Also, your bump is still manageable enough that you can fly and travel without too much concern. You most likely will be at a point in your pregnancy where you don’t have to visit your doctor every single week. This is a time where you can still enjoy yourself before the more physical symptoms of pregnancy take over.
Where Can I Go?
Answer: Anywhere…within reason.
I have heard of people going a couple of hours away for their babymoon, and couples going to a tropical resort. It is up to you, your spouse, and your financial resources. Before you book any trip, talk to your OB or doctor about the risks of traveling. They may advise you not to fly, or let you know a distance that is appropriate at this time in your pregnancy.
If you are thinking of going on a cruise, be careful. Most cruises are not equipped with the proper medical staff to help you out if anything were to go wrong with your baby while you were onboard.
So, think long and hard about what type of trip sounds best and most relaxing to you. For some couples, that might be lounging on a beach, while other couples may like going to a cabin or resort in the woods. Go wherever you and your husband are going to have the most fun and still be able to relax.
What is the purpose of a babymoon?
Answer: It can serve many functions.
- It is a great way to relax before the harder parts of pregnancy hit and before you are parents of a newborn. This can be great if you have been suffering from anxiety during your pregnancy.
- To bond you and your husband. This is one of the last opportunities you have to spend genuine alone time together. Don’t take this time for granted. Take time to delight in one another and grow closer without the stresses of parenthood.
What Are Some Tips For Having A Babymoon?
Consult Your Doctor
Like I stated before, consult your doctor before you plan anything. You may think that you know the risks when you don’t. And, remember that every pregnancy is different. Just because most women can fly freely into their second trimester, doesn’t mean that it’s healthy for you too. Before you leave, make sure that your doctor is in the loop. You should try your best to schedule an appointment with them right before you leave, and right after you get back to make sure that everything is all right with the baby.
Limit Travel Time
Try your best not to pick a destination where you’ll have to travel hours upon hours in a car or have a ton of layovers. That is not going to start your trip off on a relaxing note which is the point of taking a babymoon in the first place. If you are traveling by car, try your best to keep your seat belt lower on your body. By keeping the seat belt lower towards your hips, you’ll be able to keep your abdomen safer in the event of a crash.
Make Sure You Can Afford It
Things can get expensive quickly when you are preparing to bring a new baby home for the first time. Yes, you are going to receive a lot of gifts for your baby shower and from relatives and friends, but you aren’t going to get everything you want or need. You are going to have to spend a decent amount of your own money on things that you will need around the house for the baby.
Be smart when thinking about your finances. Don’t choose an exotic location, when you can only afford to go a couple of hours away. Babymoons are 100% not necessary for a healthy pregnancy, so if you don’t have it in the budget, don’t stress out about it. There is going to be much more financial stress when your baby is finally born; you don’t want to start out in the hole already.
Have Fun!
The last step is the most important one. Have a blast! Get that tan you’ve been missing, relax with your husband, and prepare for your growing family. This is such an exciting time in both your lives, so enjoy it while it lasts.
Where would be the perfect babymoon location for you? Share with us in the comments below!
Find tips for surviving the first week of motherhood, here.
