10 Essential Tips for Expectant Mothers at Disney
Congratulations! You’re expecting a future Disney fan! You’re also on your way to vacationing at of the theme parks around the world. Maybe you already have children or this is a grown-up trip with your loved one before your little one comes along.
Either way, we have some special tips and things to consider for expectant mothers at Disney to make your trip more enjoyable!
Talk to Your Doctor
Before you put a down payment on your trip or book your flights, make sure your obstetrician gave you the thumbs-up to travel.
You don’t want to put all that work into researching and paying for a trip only to find out you shouldn’t go. Disney will always be there — your health and the health of the baby comes first.
The Best Trimester
Okay, this will differ for everyone, but ideally the best time to visit Disney while you’re pregnant will be the second trimester.
You have passed the initial nausea of the first trimester, but you’re not quite as big as you’re going to get in the last trimester.
Research the Rides
Unfortunately, it is not safe for pregnant women to ride certain Disney theme park rides, such as Space Mountain or Thunder Mountain Railroad. Keep this in mind if you’re a coaster fan and look for rides that are a little gentler and just as enjoyable.
These include the Jungle Cruise boat ride located in Adventureland at many of the Disney Parks, the fun Haunted Mansion attraction and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.
Focus on the Entertainment
All of the theme parks are chock-filled with fantastic shows and entertainment to enjoy, so if you can’t ride the rides, see the shows!
Make sure you get a good seat for such shows as Muppet Vision 3D, Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, UP! A Great Bird Adventure and more! Many of the shows are also in air-conditioned venues and allow you to sit, be comfortable and off your feet for just a little while.
Stay on the Property for Much-Needed Breaks
One of the best advantages of staying on a Disney property is when an expectant woman gets tired, she can easily hop on the monorail and head back to the hotel for a break or a nap.
Know Where to Go
Each of the Disney theme parks has a First Aid Center to help you in case you do not feel right at any point during your Disney vacation.
Make sure you keep your doctor’s contact information on hand and any medical insurance you need.
Stay Hydrated and Pack Snacks
You’ll be walking a lot, so it’s important to drink a lot of water while you are at the parks.
Keep healthy snacks on you too in case you suddenly feel hungry or nauseous while you’re at a show or waiting on line for a ride. By the way, don’t forget to pack your prenatal vitamins!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Forget the pretty shoes or the ones with heels that make your legs look great. Disney means walking and, for pregnant women, walking can often lead to swollen feet.
Wearing comfortable shoes and socks that do not bind, staying hydrated and taking breaks will help to keep that to a minimum.
All Aboard
Speaking of walking, don’t do it if you don’t have to. In the Magic Kingdom, for example, there is a train that can take you around the entire park when you get too tired to walk. Use it.
Don’t Let it Stop You
You might feel that you need to cancel your Disney vacation because you’re pregnant and limited as to what you can do. Don’t!
Disney can be enjoyed in so many special, magical ways and you can always come back and do it again!
Expectant mothers at Disney will have so much fun following these suggestions. If you’ve already been to Disney while pregnant, what’s your best tip to give another expectant mom?