| How to Have a Potbellied Pig for a Pet Posted: 28 May 2018 01:00 AM PDT Potbellied pigs are intelligent, clean, and affectionate animals. Because of their delightful, quirky personalities, potbellied pigs make great pets. If you're willing to commit to the time and effort it takes, you can bring a potbellied pig into your home as your new pet. EditFinding a Potbellied Pig - Check if your city allows potbellied pigs as pets before you get one. Every city has different zoning codes, and some don't allow farm animals to be kept as pets. Before you adopt a potbellied pig, you'll want to make sure it's legal in your area.[1]
- Visit your city government's website to find out the laws regarding potbellied pigs in your area.
- Adopt a potbellied pig from a reputable breeder or rescue. Adopting through a reputable breeder or rescue is the best way to ensure you get a potbellied pig that's healthy and socialized. You can find a breeder or rescue by searching online for one in your area.[2]
- You can also find reputable potbellied pig breeders by visiting http://americanminipigassociation.com/.
- Read online reviews of breeders and rescues before you adopt through them to see if they're reputable.
- Inspect a breeder's or rescue's facility before you adopt from them. Touring the facility of a breeder or rescue is a good way to determine whether or not they're reputable. If the pigs appear to be living in a crowded, chaotic space, it could be a sign that the breeder isn't responsible.[3]
- You should also pay attention to how clean the facility is. A reputable breeder or rescue will have a clean facility that is neat and organized. If it's dirty and disorganized, it could mean that the pigs there aren't being raised in a safe, healthy environment.
- Ask to see a piglet's parents before you adopt it. A piglet's parents can reveal a lot about the piglet you're considering adopting, like how big it will grow up to be and what its temperament will be like.[4]
- A reputable breeder should have no problem with showing you a piglet's parents.
- If you're adopting from a rescue, you may not be able to meet a piglet's parents. However, the rescue should still have plenty of information to give you about where their piglets came from.
- Avoid adopting a potbellied pig that's younger than 6 weeks old. Piglets that are taken away from their mothers before 6 weeks of age can develop behavioral and health problems down the road. You'll want to make sure the pig you're adopting is at least 6 weeks old.[5]
- If a breeder or rescue is adopting out piglets that are younger than 6 weeks old, it's a sign that they're not a reputable or responsible organization.
EditPig-Proofing Your Home - Move dangerous household products somewhere your pig can't reach them. Cleaning products, medicines, cosmetics, toiletries, and other common household products aren't safe for potbellied pigs. Since pigs are naturally curious animals, you'll want to keep these items up high so your pig doesn't get into them.[6]
- Avoid leaving dangerous household products on low surfaces, like coffee tables, nightstands, and the floor.
- Potbellied pigs can grow to be tall, so make sure you're putting dangerous household products up high enough so your pig can't reach them.[7]
- Find new spots for any household plants that are on low surfaces. There are a variety of household plants that are toxic to potbellied pigs. Even if your plants aren't toxic, you'll still want to move them so your pig doesn't chew on them or knock them over.[8]
- Keep your plants on high surfaces, like countertops, your dining room table, or high up on a bookshelf.
- Secure low, food-filled cabinets with childproof locks. Potbellied pigs are intelligent animals, and they can be sneaky when it comes to getting food. To prevent your pig from getting into your cabinets and eating your food when you're not around, keep them shut using childproof locks.[9]
- Depending on how determined your pig is to find food, you may need to attach a childproof lock to your refrigerator as well.
- Since potbellied pigs can grow to be tall, you'll want to secure any cabinets that are below that height.[10]
- Prepare a comfortable indoor spot for your potbellied pig to sleep. If you don't want your new potbellied pig to sleep in bed with you, you'll need to make it a bed of its own. You can use a dog bed or soft pillows and blankets to make your pig's sleeping area with. Just make sure your pig will be comfortable.[11]
- You can also set up your pig's bed in a large dog crate. Make sure the crate is big enough for your pig to stand up and move around in.
- Set up an outdoor shelter for your pig if it will be outside a lot. Potbellied pigs love to run around outside, but they'll need somewhere to rest and get some shade. If you're going to be keeping your pig outside for long periods of time, set up a dog house or other shaded shelter for your pig to hang out in when it's tired.[12]
- Fill the shelter with blankets or straw so your pig is comfortable.
- Make sure the shelter will protect your pig from wind and rain.
EditFeeding Your Pig - Feed your pig a balanced, pellet-based diet. It's important that your potbellied pig gets all the nutrients it needs so it grows to be strong and healthy. Use pellets that are specifically made for potbellied pigs to ensure your pig is getting everything it needs.[13]
- The breeder or rescue you adopted your pig from should give you dietary recommendations.
- You can also talk to your vet about what the best diet for your potbellied pig is.
- Feed your pig of food per day if it's under 3 months old. When your pig is still a young piglet, you'll want to give it about of pellet food each day. You may need to adjust how much food you're giving your pig if you notice it's too skinny or too heavy.[14]
- Give your pig of food per day if it's older than 3 months. Once your pig is 3 months old, you can start feeding it larger portions of pellet food. Gradually increase the amount of food you're giving your pig from to so it has time to adjust.[15]
- Split up your pig's daily serving of food so you're feeding it once in the morning and once in the evening.
- Supplement your pig's diet with vegetables. While pellets designed specifically for potbellied pigs should make up the bulk of your pig's diet, you can also give your pig a salad-size portion of vegetables every day. Some good vegetables you can give to your pig are:[16]
- Leafy greens
- Carrots
- Cucumbers
- Avoid feeding your pig processed or high-sugar foods. Potbellied pigs don't do well when their diet is filled with lots of sodium and sugar. Stick with pellets and vegetables when feeding your pig so its diet is balanced and healthy.[17]
- It's OK to occasionally give your pig fruit, but keep it to a minimum since fruit tends to be high in sugar.
- Give your pig less food if it starts to gain a lot of weight. Obesity is a major health concern for potbellied pigs. Obesity can lead to other health issues, like respiratory problems and arthritis. If you notice your pig gaining a lot of weight, adjust its diet as needed.[18]
- The average healthy weight for potbellied pigs is . However, some potbellied pigs can weigh up to and not be considered obese, depending on their size.[19]
- If you think your pig might be obese but you're not sure, take it to the vet for an expert opinion. Your vet will also be able to give you specific dietary recommendations to help your pig lose weight.
EditCaring for Your Pig - Give your pig a bath whenever it's dirty. Contrary to popular belief, potbellied pigs are naturally clean animals, and it's not necessary to bathe them regularly. However, if your pig gets dirty playing outside, you can rinse it off inside a large shower or in a swimming pool outside.[20]
- Avoid bathing your pig more than necessary. Excessive bathing can dry out your pig's skin and cause irritation.
- Take your pig to the vet to have its hooves trimmed twice a year. Potbellied pigs' hooves grow quickly, and they need to be routinely trimmed so they don't get too long. Your vet will be able to trim your pig's hooves so they're a healthy, comfortable length.[21]
- Let your pig go outside every day. Potbellied pigs can live indoors, but they need daily outdoor exercise. Pigs like to sunbathe, run around, and root outside, so it's important that you give your pig time do this every day.[22]
- If you have a fenced in yard, let your pig go outside for a couple of hours every day. Make sure the fence is secure so your pig isn't able to escape.
- If you don't have a yard, take your pig for long walks using a leash and harness.
- Give your pig plenty of attention every day. Potbellied pigs are intelligent animals that get bored and frustrated easily. To prevent this, make sure you're spending time with your pig every day. If your pig seems irritated or depressed, it could be a sign that it's not getting enough attention.[23]
- Make it a point to give your pig a nice, long belly rub every day.
- Spend time each day training your pig and rewarding it with treats.
- Take your pig for walks or sit in your yard with it when it's playing outside.
- Take your potbellied pig to the vet as soon as possible after you adopt it to get it vaccinated.
- Always monitor your pig when it's around dogs. Dogs can be aggressive toward pigs.[24]
EditRelated wikiHows EditSources and Citations
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| How to Style Very Short Curly Hair Posted: 27 May 2018 05:00 PM PDT When you have very short hair, there is not much that you can do in terms of pulling it up into ponytails, buns, or braids. This is a good thing, because you have one less thing to worry about when getting ready in the morning. What you do have to focus on, however, is taking good care of your hair. Knowing how to maintain and define your curls will help keep them looking their best, which means a stunning style for you! EditWashing and Drying Your Hair - Wash your hair with cool water. Heat is 1 of the leading causes of dry, frizzy hair. Unfortunately, curly hair is prone to frizz. You can help your curls look their best by using cool to lukewarm water whenever you wash your hair.[1]
- Limit your hair washing to no more than 2 to 3 times per week. Over-washing your hair is another leading cause to frizz. For most hair types, 2 to 3 times per week should be plenty, but if you have natural or African hair, then once or twice per week might be better.
- If your hair is feeling greasy, use dry shampoo between washing sessions.
- Use a moisturizing, sulfate-free shampoo when you wash your hair. As already stated, curly hair is prone to frizz. A moisturizing or hydrating shampoo will help control some of that, but you have to make sure that the shampoo does not contain any sulfates. If the front label doesn't say "sulfate-free," check the ingredient label.[2]
- Sulfates are harsh cleaning agents than can lead to dryness and frizz. Alcohol is another culprit, but it is more common in spray and aerosol-based products.
- Use shampoo no more than once or twice per week. You can use conditioner more often, however.[3]
- Make use of conditioners and deep conditioners. Use a regular conditioner each time you wash your hair and a deep conditioner every 1 to 2 weeks. A moisturizing or hydrating conditioner would be the best, but you can also use ones that are labeled for dry, damaged, frizzy, or curly hair.[4]
- Leave regular conditioner in your hair for 2 to 3 minutes. Leave deep conditioner for 5 to 15 minutes, or whatever the instruction label states.
- To get more dramatic results from deep conditioners, put a shower cap over your hair after you've applied the treatment and then sit under a hair dryer.
- Most conditioners do not contain sulfates to begin with, because their job is to condition (not clean) your hair. Still double-check the ingredient label.
- Let your hair air dry, when possible, or pat it dry with a towel. As already stated, heat is the main culprit to dry, frizzy hair. This means that hairdryers can wreak havoc on your beautiful curls. Fortunately, because your hair is so short, it should not take very long for your curls to dry.[5]
- If your hair is soaking wet, pat it dry with a microfiber towel or an old (but clean) T-shirt.
- Don't rub your hair with a towel, or you will damage your hair and create frizz.[6]
- Brush your hair with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb. Never use a brush, as this can lead to--you guessed it, frizz! Avoid using a regular comb as well, as this can further damage your hair. Instead, run your fingers through your curls; a wide-toothed comb will also work.[7]
- When you're brushing your hair, start by brushing out the ends and then gradually working your way up to your roots. Starting at your roots can cause damage, especially if your hair is knotted or tangled.
- Apply a styling mousse while your hair is wet to define your curls. Just because your hair is curly does not mean that it will always behave. Fortunately, you can define those curls with some styling mousse. Get your hair wet, then apply the styling mousse.[8]
- How much styling mousse you use depends on how short your hair is. Start with a coin-sized amount, then add more as needed.
- You can also experiment with curling gels, creams, and setting lotions.
- Combat dryness and frizz with keratin-based treatments. You should be using a deep conditioner every 1 to 2 weeks for starters, but sometimes, that isn't enough. If your hair is still dry and frizzy, get a keratin-based mask, and apply it to your hair following the instructions on the label.[9]
- You can buy keratin-based treatments in salons and beauty supply stores.
EditStyling a Pixie - Start with damp hair. You can do this style just after stepping out of the shower, or you can mist your hair with water from a spray bottle to make it damp. If you are styling your hair just after a shower, pat it dry with a T-shirt or a microfiber towel first so that it isn't soaking wet.[10]
- Mist your hair afterwards with a priming spray. This will help reduce drying time and protect your hair from the hairdryer's heat.
- You can use this method for other styles cut to a similar length.
- Part your hair, if desired. Unless you are going for a slicked-back look, you should part your hair down the center or off to the side. Use the handle of a rat-tail comb to create your part so that it is nice and neat. If you are going for a slicked-back look, comb your hair straight back.[11]
- Blow dry your hair with a diffuser on a low-heat setting. Diffusers are popular amongst long-haired curlies, but they can help those with short curls too! It will focus the heat on the ends of your hair and help bring out the natural shape of your curls.[12]
- Touch your scalp with the diffuser's prongs. This will ensure that enough heat reaches your curls.
- Apply a texturizing powder if you want a disheveled look. Chances are, your curls may already look disheveled on their own. If they don't, you can easily create the look by sprinkling some texturizing powder onto your roots, then combing your hair with your fingers upwards to create lift.[13]
- This step is optional. You don't have to create a disheveled look.
- Tease your hair at the roots if you want to rock a pompadour. If you need to, apply some styling mousse to your hair first. Next, use a comb to tease your hair at the roots, then use a brush to comb the tips back towards your crown.[14]
- This step is optional. You can leave your curls parted down the middle or off to the side.
- Your hair should have enough structure to stand up on its own. If it doesn't, curl the hair around a round brush and blow dry it in the direction you want to style it in.
- Add a glossing spray or serum to bring out your hair color. If you styled your hair for a disheveled look or a pompadour, you should stick with a glossing spray. If you left your curls as-is, you can work a shine serum through your curls with your fingers instead.[15]
- If you use a shine serum, only use a pea-sized amount.
- Set your style with hairspray, if desired. Curls are pretty good at staying in place; they rarely fall limp. If you styled a pompadour, however, you might want to mist your hair with hairspray. If you parted your hair, you could mist some hairspray along the part to keep it in place throughout the day.[16]
EditStyling a Short Bob - Start with damp hair. You can do this style right after you step out of the shower, but you might want to pat your hair dry with a T-shirt or a microfiber towel first so that it is no longer dripping wet. Alternatively, mist your hair with water from a spray bottle.
- Brush your hair with a tangle teaser. A tangle teaser is a special type of brush meant for curly hair. It is basically a paddle without a handle--a looks a little like a computer mouse. It has short, flexible bristles.[17]
- You can get these at a beauty supply store. Look for terms like "Tangle Teezer" or "Tangle Teaser."
- If you want to part your hair a certain way, do so first with the handle of a rat-tail comb.
- Apply a keratin treatment, curling cream, and hair oil. Start with a keratin treatment oil or cream first. While not completely necessary, it will help make your hair stronger. Apply a curl-enhancing cream next to combat frizz and add shine. Finish off with a little bit of hair oil, such as argan oil.[18]
- A little bit of oil goes a long way. Start with a pea-sized amount, then use more as needed.
- You'll need to use a little more cream than oil. Start with a blueberry or grape-sized amount.
- You don't need to use oil made specifically for hair. Olive oil, pure argan oil, or coconut oil will also work!
- Blow dry your hair with a diffuser. Start with a medium-heat setting, then finish off with a cool setting once your hair is about 90% dry. Touch the ends of your hair with the diffuser as you dry your hair. You can even touch your scalp with the diffuser's prongs.[19]
- If your hairdryer doesn't have a medium setting, start with a high-heat setting.
- Touch up any unruly strands with a curling iron. Curling irons aren't just for making straight hair curly--you can use them to bring curls into shape! Find any curls that appear frizzy, and wrap them around a hot curling iron for a few seconds, then slide the curling iron out.[20]
- If the products you used earlier on your hair did not contain heat protection, mist your hair with a heat protectant before you curl it.
- You don't have to curl every strand--just the ones that appear frizzy or stick out.
- Finish off with a shine serum or spray. While not absolutely necessary, this will help keep your curls looking smooth and glossy throughout the day. Some serums even contain anti-frizz properties, which are a boon in humid climates![21]
- If you are using a serum, you only need a tiny amount. Start with a pea-sized amount, then use more as needed.
- Focus on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair. Avoid putting the serum or spray too close to your scalp.
EditStyling Natural or African Hair - Start with clean, damp hair. You can style your hair straight out of the shower, or you can mist your hair with water from a spray bottle. Make sure that your hair is freshly-washed and free of any styling products.[22]
- This method is recommended for natural or African-textured hair. You can try this method if you have tightly-curled, non-African hair.
- Apply a generous amount of leave-in conditioner. How much you use depends on how long or thick your hair is--you need enough to completely saturate your hair. A palmful should work for most lengths, but if your hair is super-short, then a coin-sized amount might be better.[23]
- If you don't have any leave-in conditioner, use another type of hair moisturizing cream.[24]
- Apply extra-virgin coconut oil using circular motions. The oil will help seal the moisture in, and the circular motions will help define your curls. Again, use enough oil to saturate your hair.[25]
- If you don't have coconut oil, you can use another type of natural hair oil, such as olive oil or argan oil.
- For even more definition, apply a buttery, curl-defining cream afterwards.
- Work a styling gel throughout your hair to help define the curls. You can use any type of styling gel you want. Simply squirt a few pumps into your palm, them apply it to your hair. Use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to help distribute the product.[26]
- If you want to create a side part, use the handle of a rat-tail comb or a hair pick to create the part.
- Use your fingers to coil your curls into shape. This part is time-consuming, but it is worth it. Simply pick a lock of hair, twist it around your finger, then slide your finger out. Think of it as a "pulling and patting" motion.[27]
- When you reach your part and hairline, simply bend the curls over your finger. Work away from your part or hairline.
- Mist your hair with water if it starts to feel dry while you style it.
- If your fingers don't work, you may need to curl your hair with rollers instead. If you use rollers, apply a styling mousse or setting lotion to your hair to help the curls hold their shape.
- Use a toothbrush to smooth down the baby hairs along your hairline. If you need to, apply some more gel to the baby hairs first; you can also use an edge control cream instead. Next, gently comb the hairs down with a toothbrush.[28]
- Instead of brushing the hairs straight down, add a little swirl to them!
- A toothbrush with soft bristles, such as a baby toothbrush, will work the best.
- Blow dry your hair on a cool setting with a diffuser. Most people reserve differs for long hair, but they help preserve short curls too. Simply pop a diffuser attachment onto your hairdryer, then blow dry your hair on a cool setting.[29]
- When you are done, consider running your fingers or a wide-toothed comb through your hair. This will help break up the curls and make them look more natural.
EditGetting a Flattering Cut - Cut your hair in layers to help distribute the volume. When it comes to hair, different people have different ideas of what's "short" and what's "very short." If your idea of "very short" is something that's between pixie and bob-length, get some light layers to help distribute the volume--otherwise you might end up with a puff![30]
- If your hair is cropped short, you don't have to worry about layers. It doesn't need much volume control.
- Consider a classic pixie if you want something more edgy. For even better results, consider getting a graduated pixie, where it is a little longer on the top than on the sides. Don't go for a precise cut; leave it coarse and choppy.[31]
- Try a sculpted pixie cut if you want to bring dimension to your face. A sculpted pixie cut is similar to the classic pixie, except that it is cropped short on the sides and left longer at top.[32]
- This is a great option for those who are transitioning from long-to-short hair (or vice versa), or for those who are treating their hair for heat damage.
- Try a TWA or teeny-weeny afro if you have natural or African hair. This is a versatile hairstyle that is easy to style and take care of. It is perfect for those with natural or African hair and is a great alternative to doing protective styles, such as cornrows.
- Curls react different to different product. What works for your friend or sister may not work for you. Experiment with different products to find the right one for you.
- Give products time to work. You won't see stunning results the next day. Try the product for about 1 month before making a decision.
EditThings You'll Need EditWashing and Drying Your Hair - Sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner
- Deep conditioner
- Wide-toothed comb
- T-shirt or microfiber towel
EditStyling a Pixie - Hairdryer
- Diffuser
- Spray bottle
- T-shirt or microfiber towel
- Rat-tail comb
- Texturizing powder (optional)
- Styling mousse (optional)
- Shine serum or spray
EditStyling a Short Bob - Hairdryer
- Diffuser
- Spray bottle
- T-shirt or microfiber towel
- Tangle teaser
- Keratin treatment
- Curling cream
- Hair oil
- Shine serum or spray
EditStyling Natural or African Hair - Leave-in conditioner
- Extra-virgin coconut oil
- Curl-defining cream
- Hair gel
- Toothbrush
- Hairdryer
- Diffuser
- Spray bottle
EditSources and Citations
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| How to Travel During Pregnancy Posted: 27 May 2018 09:00 AM PDT Traveling during pregnancy is not usually a problem if your pregnancy has been uncomplicated and you are not too close to your due date. However, it is a good idea to check with your doctor and develop a plan for seeking medical attention if you should need it. Whether you are planning a babymoon or business trip, there are also several things you should keep in mind to ensure that you are safe and comfortable during your travels. EditPlanning Your Trip - Plan your trip between weeks 14 and 28 if possible. The second trimester of your pregnancy is the safest and the most comfortable time to travel because the high risk period for miscarriage has passed and you should no longer be experiencing morning sickness. If possible, plan your trip so that it will fall within this timeframe.[1]
- Do not travel after you are 36 weeks pregnant, or after 32 weeks pregnant if you have a complicated pregnancy (such as if you are carrying multiples or at risk of premature birth).[2]
- Avoid countries with zika outbreaks. Zika is a disease carried by mosquitoes that can cause severe birth defects in your baby, so it is important to avoid areas where exposure is likely. Do not book travel to any regions where there has been a recent zika outbreak.[3]
- Choose refundable options for your flight and hotel. Although you may not anticipate having to cancel your trip, booking travel options that are refundable may save you a lot of money and hassle if you do have to cancel. Look for airfares and other travel tickets that are refundable, even if you have to pay a little more. Book hotel rooms and other accommodations that you can cancel.[5]
- Read the fine print on any travel plans you make so you know how long you have to cancel and what exactly you will need to do.
- Check with the airline before booking. Each airline has a different policy regarding pregnant passengers. Call or check the website of the airline you plan on using before you book your travel to ensure that you will be in compliance with their rules.[6]
- For example, if you are past your eighth month of pregnancy, some airlines require you to bring multiple copies of a certificate from your obstetrician giving you permission to travel.[7]
EditProtecting Your Health While Traveling - Check with your doctor before planning your trip. In most cases, traveling during a healthy pregnancy is safe. However, checking with your doctor before you travel will give them an opportunity to advise you of any special precautions you need to take during your trip. Talking to your doctor ahead of time will also ensure that you can schedule a checkup for before you take your trip. If any serious complications arise, then your doctor may recommend postponing or canceling your travel plans for the safety of you and your baby. Your doctor may recommend against travel if you have or recently had a diagnosis of:[8]
- Heart disease
- Gestational diabetes
- Bone fracture
- Severe anemia
- Respiratory disease
- Hemorrhage
- Preeclampsia
- Get all of your vaccinations updated. Getting necessary vaccinations before your trip may help to protect you from becoming seriously ill while you are traveling. Talk to your doctor about what vaccinations are recommended for traveling to your intended destination. Your doctor can advise you on what vaccinations are safe to get at this stage in your pregnancy.[9]
- For example, if you are near your third trimester, your doctor may recommend getting Tdap (protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) and flu vaccines if you are between weeks 27 and 36 of your pregnancy.[10]
- Bring any medications you will need. You will need to continue to take your prenatal vitamins plus any prescribed medications while you are traveling, so make sure to bring enough to last for your entire trip. You may also want to bring some additional medications to help make your trip easier or just in case you need them, such as some acetaminophen for pain or a prescription medication for motion sickness.[11]
- Ask your doctor to refill your prescriptions early to ensure that you will have enough for the trip.
- Wash your hands frequently. Frequent hand washing may help to protect you against germs and bacteria that could make you ill during your trip. Wash your hands thoroughly after using the restroom, before eating, and any time your hands are soiled.[12]
- Ensure that water is safe to drink. Unclean water poses a serious risk to you and your unborn baby, so always ensure that your drinking water is clean. If you are traveling somewhere where drinking the tap water is not recommended, then you will need to purchase bottled water or boil your drinking water.[13]
- Avoid brushing your teeth with tap water or letting water into your mouth while showering in countries where the tap water is deemed unsafe.
- Check the seal on all bottled water you purchase to make sure that the plastic seal is intact. Some vendors may try to sell you tap water in used water bottles.[14]
- Get up and walk around often to prevent deep vein thrombosis. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), also known as blood clots, is a serious concern for pregnant women. To help reduce your risk of blood clots, take frequent walking and stretching breaks during your travels.[15]
- If you are flying, book a seat that is next to the aisle so that you can easily get up and walk around. Try to get up once per hour and walk up and down the aisle. You can also stretch your legs and rotate your ankles while sitting in an aisle seat.
- If you are driving, take breaks every 1 to 2 hours to stretch your legs and walk around.
- Staying hydrated is also an important part of preventing DVT, so drink plenty of fluids while you are traveling.[16]
- Ask your doctor about wearing compression stockings while you travel. Compression stockings can help to reduce your chance of blood clots, which are a concern for pregnant women. Your risk of developing a blood clot also increases during travel. However, make sure to check with your doctor first, because compression stockings may not be necessary.[17]
- You can buy compression stockings without a prescription, but your insurance may pay for them if your doctor prescribes them.
- As an added benefit, compression stockings may help to increase your comfort while traveling by improving the blood flow in your legs and reducing swelling.[18]
EditKeeping Yourself Safe and Comfortable - Wear loose, comfortable clothing and shoes. Tight, structured clothing and shoes will be uncomfortable while you are traveling. They may also increase your risk of developing blood clots. Instead, wear something loose that fits you comfortably. Opt for stretchy pants with an elastic waistline and a loose fitting top, or wear a loose fitting jersey or cotton dress. Wear comfortable walking shoes as well, such as a pair of sneakers or comfortable sandals.[19]
- You may also want to dress in layers in case you get too hot or too cold. For example, you could wear a short-sleeved top with a cardigan or pullover.
- Wear your seatbelt at all times. Buckle your seatbelt when you are going to be riding in a car, on a bus, or on an airplane. Make sure that the seatbelt is low around your hips and positioned under your belly. The top strap of a car seatbelt should go across your chest and be positioned above your belly.[20]
- On an airplane, keep your seatbelt buckled even when the "fasten seatbelt" sign is off. Unexpected turbulence may jostle you around and this could result in an injury to your stomach if the turbulence is severe enough.
- Move your seat as far away from the steering wheel as you can. If you will be driving, position yourself as far away from the steering wheel as you can. Make sure that the position is comfortable and safe.[21]
- For example, if it is hard for you to reach the steering wheel, then you need to be closer to it.
- Avoid foods that make you gassy. Gas-producing foods can increase your discomfort while traveling, so it is best to avoid them. Steer clear of carbonated beverages, beans, prunes, and any other food or drink that you know will make you gassy.[22]
- For example, if eating raw vegetables gives you gas, then steer clear of raw vegetables until you reach your destination.
EditPlanning for Medical Emergencies - Research medical care options where you are visiting. No matter where you are planning to go, it is important to make sure that you know where to access medical care if you need it during your trip. Check online to find the nearest hospital to where you are staying and program the address into your phone or GPS device.[23]
- Look into what your insurance covers. Some insurance companies do not cover your medical expenses when you are out of the country. Check with your insurance company to find out if you will be covered in an emergency situation. If not, you may consider getting travel insurance so that any necessary medical expenses will be covered during your trip.[24]
- Travel insurance comes in packages that cover any medical care you need during your travels as well as things like lost baggage, cancellation fees, loss of money or goods due to theft, and missed flights.[25]
- Travel insurance is available from private companies like Travel Guard and Travelex.
- Pack a copy of your medical records. If you do need to seek emergency medical attention during your trip, having a copy of your medical records on hand may help the healthcare provider to identify the problem and treat you. Obtain a copy of your medical records from your doctor and keep it on you at all times during your travels.[26]
- Make sure your travel companion knows where to find your medical records in case you are unable to get them yourself.
- Seek immediate medical attention for certain symptoms. In some cases, you may need to seek immediate medical attention during your trip. Go to an emergency room or call for emergency services if you experience:[27]
- Vaginal bleeding.
- Ruptured membranes (water breaks).
- Contractions.
- Pain in your abdomen or pelvis.
- Severe diarrhea or vomiting.
- Swelling in face and hands.
- Persistent headache.
- Seeing spots or having other vision changes.
- Warmth, redness, swelling, and pain in your leg.
EditSources and Citations __
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