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It’s the holiday season which means many of us are traveling to visit friends and family. It’s one of the busiest times of year to travel – which translates to a lot of added stress. Throw in fertility treatment and medications that have to be taken or administered at specific times and you’re probably thinking, “let’s stay home.” 

Here’s the thing, if you want to take it easy this holiday season you have every right to! Infertility and treatment are not easy and if a cozy holiday at home is just what you need, go for it! But, if you’re still wanting to be with family or friends this holiday it’s totally possible and we’ve put together some tips to make your travel a little less stressful!

    1. Talk to your doctor. Your fertility doctor has been through this before and will help you to create a rock solid plan for traveling with (and taking/administering) your medications. Let your doctor know what your plans are and ask any questions you may have. Your doctor may provide you with a note as an added assist for helping you pass through TSA faster.
    2. Plan for how you are traveling. Are you flying or driving? Some medications may require refrigeration or special storage depending on how you travel. 
      • If you are driving, make sure to pack a cooler with ice packs in your car. 
      • If you are flying, ice packs are totally allowed through TSA so don’t sweat that! Pack a cooler with your frozen ice packs and medications. TSA will check the cooler so don’t be caught off guard.
    3. Know what you need to fly with medications. TSA is going to check your medications if they are liquid or stored in a cooler – this is the norm. Make sure your medications are clearly labeled to make this process go quicker! If you are carrying a liquid medication that is above 3.4 ounces, that’s acceptable as well! If your liquid medication does not need to be cooled then pull it out of your carry on so that it’s easier for TSA to check before sending you on your way. A vapor test may or may not be performed but is a quick test that just requires them to hold a test strip near the opening of the bottle. 
      • It’s a good idea to bring a copy of your prescription(s) with you. Your fertility specialist or nurse can provide this for you.
      • Some fertility medications require an injection which means you will have to bring syringes. Inform the security agent of this before you go through screening. Make sure your syringes are still in their original packaging and placed with all of your clearly labeled medications.
    4. Check with your airline. Double check your airlines policies regarding traveling with medication. Some airlines may have different guidelines so it’s a good rule of thumb to make sure you know what your intended airline expects.

If you are planning to travel for the holidays, are currently undergoing fertility treatment and have further questions, call our Raleigh office at 919-908-000 or contact us online today!