Flying While Pregnant: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Traveling can be packed with uncertainty and unease for anyone, let alone for a woman who is expecting a child. Among the most common questions that soon-to-be mothers ponder over is whether or not flying is safe during pregnancy. Pregnancy brings some necessary cautions, and air travel can complicate things further. This article will help expecting mothers address these concerns by outlining the dos and don’ts to help navigate air travel safely and comfortably while pregnant.

Pregnancy and Air Travel: What You Need to Know

Expecting women are mostly advised to postpone air travel until after their pregnancy’s 36th week. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advises that women with normal pregnancies can fly at any time during their pregnancy, but it is not recommended to fly frequently. The risk of blood clots due to an extended amount of time sitting in one spot increases in pregnant women. DVT (deep vein thrombosis) can cause swelling, pain, and can be fatal if the clots enter the mother’s bloodstream.

Women having complicated pregnancies should avoid traveling by plane unless they first consult their healthcare providers. Pregnancy-related complications like preterm labor, premature rupture of the membranes, and gestational hypertension, among others, can be affected severely by the lower oxygen levels, cabin pressure, and long periods of inactivity during air travel.

Your Guide to Flying While Pregnant

If you decide to fly during your pregnancy, consider the following tips to keep yourself safe and comfortable:

Tips for Booking Flights during Pregnancy

Choose flights that are short namely 4 hours or less. Direct flights are the best option, but if there is an emergency stopover, opt for a place with good medical facilities. Moreover, if you have a history of preterm delivery, hypertension, or any other pregnancy-related complication, it is highly advised to reconsider unnecessary travel.

Airline Accommodations for Expecting Mothers

Most airlines offer accommodation for expecting mothers, including wheelchair assistance to board the plane, suggested seating to avoid turbulence, and arrangements to accommodate dietary restrictions. It’s always best to inform the airline beforehand to prevent inconvenience.

Packing for Air Travel during Pregnancy

Packing for air travel depends on how far into the pregnancy you are. Ensure you have your doctor’s note, medications with the security check if you carry them in the cabin, and keep your medical records in hand. Carrying comfortable clothing, shoes, and compression leggings will help reduce swelling. Stay hydrated and ensure you carry enough snacks to keep you energized throughout the journey.

The Dos and Don’ts of Air Travel for Expecting Mothers

Before you fly, follow these steps to make sure you’re safe:

Things to Do Before Flying while Pregnant

Visit your doctor to make sure you’re healthy enough to fly and identify any concerns that may need attention. You can also carry medication prescribed for pregnancy-related complications, a copy of your medical report, and emergency contact information. Before boarding the plane, ensure you take frequent breaks for a walk, stretching, and exercise to improve blood circulation.

Making the Most of Airline Accommodation for Pregnant Women

It’s best to notify the airline a few days or weeks before your departure about your pregnancy. They will assist you with seat arrangements, access to the restroom, and allow extra carry-on luggage containing the necessary medical supplies and comfortable clothing. Most airlines also offer special meals to cater to your dietary needs.

The Things to Avoid While Flying

Avoid carrying heavy bags to prevent unnecessary strain, be sure to keep hydrated during the flight, and avoid consuming liquids known to cause dehydration like coffee and alcohol. More so, avoid exposing yourself to radiation from the X-ray scanners by getting a pat-down instead.

Is It Safe to Fly While Pregnant? Everything You Need to Consider

There are certain medical concerns that expecting mothers should be made aware of before flying while pregnant:

Medical Concerns You Need to Consider

The cabin pressure can cause ear pain and nausea, which can be uncomfortable and painful during pregnancy. Additionally, radiation exposure from Earth’s atmosphere and cosmic rays increases the higher you go in the air. It is essential to minimize these radiation levels by flying at a lower altitude and avoiding trips that require you to fly frequently or for an extended period. If you need to take a flight before your 36th week of pregnancy, consult with your doctor and take precautions to minimize risks.

Effects Flying May Have on Pregnant Women

Flying often comes with an emotional burden, and for pregnant women, this may become even more so. The anxiety of flying, dealing with unfamiliar surroundings, and the physical strains can cause stress levels to rise. Overthinking and over-exertion are undoubtedly counter-productive, and it’s best to prioritize self-care, relaxation, and safe practices to avoid complications.

Flying Pregnant: Tips for a Comfortable and Safe Journey

To keep yourself comfortable and safe, it is necessary to follow the guidelines to make your journey easier:

Ways to Find Comfort while Flying

When flying, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable, loose clothing and shoes that support your feet. Bringing a neck pillow or cushion, wearing compression leggings, and avoiding tight clothing can also help reduce discomfort. Stay hydrated and keep yourself fed by carrying healthy snacks. As much as possible, try to take short walks or do simple stretches to prevent swelling and cramps.

Navigating Air Travel During Pregnancy: Advice from Experts

Safe Air Travel Guidelines for Pregnant Women

It’s always best to talk to your medical practitioner or obstetrician before flying when pregnant. Such experts may advise against traveling in case of pregnancy-related complications, and enduring lengthy journeys can harm the mother and the unborn child.

Best Practices for Airlines to Follow

In most cases, airlines are helpful, understanding, and cater to their pregnant customers’ needs. However, it’s still essential to alert them about your situation beforehand so that they are prepared to accommodate you. Most airlines have policies that allow pregnant women to board the plane early or avail wheelchairs to help with the boarding process and other needs.

Additional Safety Measures

Certain airlines may offer additional measures to guarantee your comfort. For example, Delta gives priority to pregnant women when boarding and has allowed women up to their ninth month of pregnancy. Emirates allows expectant mothers to bring along baby car seats on board and provides pregnancy-related advice helpful to ensure a safe and hassle-free journey.

Conclusion

Traveling during pregnancy can be tricky and complicated, but it’s an inevitable reality for some women. By taking necessary precautions and understanding the dos and don’ts of flying while pregnant, one can make the journey more comfortable and safe. If you have any additional concerns, please consult with your doctor or reach out to your airline for help. Remember, your health and safety are the most important, and you can still have a safe and enjoyable journey while pregnant.

We hope this article has been helpful. Here are a few additional resources for your convenience:

https://www.cdc.gov/features/pregnancy-travel-tips
https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-advisory/articles/2019/05/air-travel-during-pregnancy
https://www.emirates.com/english/before-you-fly/your-health/is-it-safe-to-fly-while-pregnant/

Please feel free to share your experience or reach out to us with any questions that you might have.