Not only have we traveled to Disney with our kids at varying ages (anywhere from 6 months to 9 years old), I have also been pregnant twice while at Walt Disney World and once on Disney Cruise Line. Being pregnant at Disney can make it a different vacation, but still very fun. Below, I’ll share some of my experiences about how to enjoy the theme parks while pregnant.
I went to Disney World at four months pregnant with our second son, cruised at 2 months pregnant with our daughter and went to Disney World at 7 months pregnant with our daughter. Personally, I enjoyed these trips very much. I’ve mentioned it before, but our family has a “commando” touring style when we’re at the Disney parks. While I don’t mind this, it’s really more my husband’s thing than mine. I love to just walk through the Magic Kingdom and just look around. We were still pretty structured on these trips, but because I was pregnant, I got to take some time out to slow down and enjoy the Disney details that I often miss. I never felt like I was missing out on our vacation.
On my first trip while pregnant, our oldest turned two, so any attractions that were age-appropriate for him were also safe for me. I obviously couldn’t go on the roller coasters, but my husband doesn’t mind riding alone, so he would head off to do those and my son and I would explore the area near the attraction. I got to wander through the shops, enjoy some popcorn while people watching and go to some of my favorite shows, like Carousel of Progress and the Hall of Presidents. If your style of vacationing is roller coasters and thrill rides only, then I can see how doing Disney while pregnant would be a big change. But for me, it was a welcome chance to explore.
Anyone who has been to a Disney theme park knows that a Disney vacation can take a lot out of a person, even when not pregnant. You’re walking an average of 9 miles per day, sitting on the curb for parades, getting up early and staying up late, out in the hot sun all day and probably not eating the healthiest foods. So, what needs to change while you’re pregnant? A lot of this will depend on how far along you are, so the first rule is to be your own judge.
If you’re feeling worn out, make sure to rest. This could mean just finding a spot in the shade to sit while other members of your party go on a ride. It might mean adding a few shows into your day for a chance to sit for 20 minutes. It might mean that you need to rent a wheelchair or ECV to be able to enjoy the parks. I suffered with sciatica problems during each of my pregnancies, so sitting was key for me. My leg started to go numb if I stood up for too long, so even if we were just stopped to discuss where we were headed next, I found a low wall or bench to sit on until we were ready to move on. Wear comfortable shoes that will give your body the support it needs. Go back to the hotel for an afternoon nap if necessary. If you need more sleep, go back early to go to bed or let everyone leave in the morning while you get a little more rest.
It’s always important to drink a lot of water on a Disney vacation, particularly if you’re there during the hot months, but this is especially important while pregnant. Keep in mind that you can get a free cup of ice water from any counter service restaurant. I carried a reusable water bottle and would refill it often with fresh ice water. And speaking of staying hydrated – make sure you know where the nearest restrooms are! With all that water, you’re bound to have to make a few more trips than normal.
A lot of women try to eat healthier while pregnant. When I think of Disney, along with my favorite rides, I tend to think about my favorite snacks, like popcorn and Mickey bars. But, Disney has actually done a great job in recent years of bringing in some healthier options. You’ll be able to choose salads and veggies at restaurants and at many snack carts, you’ll find a variety of fruit choices. You can also bring food into the park with you, so you could pack a bag of healthy snack options. If you have an item that pregnancy makes you crave, just bring it along with you.
One place that is often overlooked in the parks is the First Aid Station. There is one in every park and they can offer you a cool place to relax and recharge, put your feet up and even lay down if necessary.
A quick rundown of being pregnant on Disney Cruise Line: Women can only cruise until they are entering their 24th week of pregnancy. This is a safety issue, as the medical facilities onboard are not equipped to deal with pregnancy complications. The big concern about cruising while pregnant is probably seasickness. I didn’t have any morning sickness during this pregnancy, but I did bring along SeaBands just in case it would develop while at sea. You can also use ginger tablets or crackers. Talk to your doctor to get their recommendations before you leave. Other than that, stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and make sure to take it easy and enjoy your relaxing vacation before baby comes!
Overall, doing Disney while pregnant isn’t too difficult, as long as you know what to expect and go prepared with the idea that this may be a different style of vacation than you’re used to. And the best part? Next time you’re there, you’ll have a new family member making memories right alongside you!
