Travel and Having a Family

Travel

So you’ve got itchy feet, and want to see the world!

There are few restrictions on people with CF travelling, but it does take some serious planning and forethought.

Things to think about:

Climate: There is no specific climate best suited for people with CF, but be aware that any change in climate could affect your lung function.

Note: tropical conditions in Northern Australia and Southern Asia are known to harbour a bacteria that is very detrimental to a CF person’s health, Burkholderia pseduomallei – Melioidosis. Travel to these areas should be avoided during the wet, monsoon season.

Terrain: Consider your ability to get around, especially in hilly or rough terrain. Altitude can also vastly affect the level of oxygen and therefore your lung function.

Accommodation: Are facilities available for you to do your treatments? (electricity, refrigeration)

Flights: Although aeroplane cabins are pressurised to compensate for high altitude, the oxygen concentration is lower than at ground level. Talk to your CF team to see if this deoxygenation will cause a problem for you. You may need to consider taking an oxygen supply on the plane. If you do need oxygen your CF team have the contacts to assist you with the arrangements, but remember to have all the qualifying paperwork, and approvals PRIOR to arriving at the airport, or they won’t let you fly. All airlines have differing policies so check with YOUR airline what they require.

Medication: Plan to take all required medications with you, as they may not be available, or in the same form, where you are going. Ensure that you have a letter from your Doctor outlining all the medication and equipment that you require and keep all medications in their original packaging, this helps you to clear customs. Also check whether you require a medical certificate.

Equipment: Nebulisers and cleaning equipment, O2 concentrators, power supplies, battery packs and adaptors should all be considered when travelling. Ensure that you have the correct adaptors for use in the countries you will be travelling

to.

Insurance: Most insurance companies will not cover Cystic Fibrosis complications (as they are considered a pre-existing condition), but you should have insurance coverage for other mishaps such as lost luggage and travel disruption.

CFANZ has produced a Travel Guide for People with Cystic Fibrosis, which goes into more detail.

Having a Family

People with Cystic Fibrosis are living longer healthier lives than ever before. As a result, pregnancy and parenthood have become exciting realities for many individuals with CF.

There are some unique challenges to be faced, but thanks to advances in reproductive technology an increasing number of people with CF are able to start a family.

Most men with CF are infertile due to the vas deferens being blocked or absent, but conception can be achieved through assisted reproduction technology.

Women with CF are often able to conceive naturally, however it may take longer to become pregnant due to thicker vaginal mucus making it difficult for the sperm to fertilise the egg.

Pregnancy offers some challenges to women with CF, and if you are considering starting a family then you should discuss it in depth with your CF team.

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