Flying during pregnancy is generally safe for most women, especially if the pregnancy is healthy and uncomplicated. However, there are certain circumstances during pregnancy when flying may not be recommended or may even be prohibited for safety reasons. Understanding when and why flying might be restricted during pregnancy is crucial for the health of both the expectant mother and her baby.
In this article, we will explore the factors that determine when you should avoid flying during pregnancy, as well as guidelines provided by healthcare professionals and airlines.
General Guidelines for Flying During Pregnancy
Is Flying Safe During Pregnancy?
For most women with a healthy pregnancy, flying is generally safe up until the third trimester. The primary concerns are related to the stage of pregnancy, the presence of any complications, and the potential risks associated with long-distance flights.
First Trimester: Flying in the early stages of pregnancy is usually safe. However, some women experience fatigue, nausea, and morning sickness, which can make air travel less comfortable. If you are not feeling well or have complications such as bleeding or risk factors for miscarriage, you should consult your healthcare provider before flying.
Second Trimester: This is generally considered the safest and most comfortable time to fly. Morning sickness has usually subsided, and the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor is lower. Many women find that their energy levels are higher, making travel more manageable during this period.
Third Trimester: As you approach the later stages of pregnancy, flying becomes riskier, particularly after the 28th week. The primary concerns are the increased risk of premature labor, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and difficulty with movement and comfort due to a growing belly.
When Are You Not Allowed to Fly During Pregnancy?
While flying is generally safe for many pregnant women, there are specific situations where flying may be restricted or not recommended. These restrictions are often based on the potential risks to both the mother and the baby.
1. Medical Complications or High-Risk Pregnancy
If you have a high-risk pregnancy, your healthcare provider may advise you to avoid flying, particularly during the later stages of pregnancy. Some common pregnancy complications that may prevent you from flying include:
Preterm Labor or Risk of Preterm Birth: If you have a history of preterm labor or signs of preterm birth, such as cervical shortening or premature contractions, you may be advised not to fly, especially in the third trimester.
Placenta Complications: Conditions like placenta previa (where the placenta covers the cervix) or placental abruption (premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall) can increase the risk of bleeding and premature labor, making air travel unsafe.
Severe Hypertension or Preeclampsia: High blood pressure or preeclampsia, a condition that causes high blood pressure and organ damage, can pose significant risks during pregnancy, particularly when traveling at high altitudes.
Blood Clotting Disorders: Conditions that increase the risk of blood clots, such as thrombophilia, can make long flights particularly dangerous. The risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is higher during pregnancy, and flying for long periods can exacerbate this risk.
Multiple Pregnancies (Twins, Triplets, etc.): Women carrying multiples are often considered higher risk and may be advised against flying after a certain point in pregnancy due to the increased chances of complications such as preterm labor.
In these cases, your healthcare provider will provide specific advice based on your medical history and the risks associated with your pregnancy.
2. After the 36th Week of Pregnancy
Most airlines have specific policies regarding the gestational age at which pregnant women are allowed to fly. Generally, women are not allowed to fly after the 36th week of pregnancy, regardless of whether the pregnancy is uncomplicated. The reasons for this include:
Risk of Preterm Labor: The risk of going into labor increases as the pregnancy progresses, and the airlines do not want to be responsible for a premature birth that could happen during the flight.
Limited Medical Resources: While airline cabins are equipped with basic medical supplies, there are limited resources in the event that labor begins during the flight. In-flight medical staff (if available) may not be trained to handle childbirth or pregnancy-related complications.
Increased Discomfort: In the third trimester, many women experience discomfort due to the size of their belly, back pain, swelling, and difficulty moving around. This can make flying uncomfortable and potentially hazardous, particularly on long flights.
Some airlines may allow you to fly after the 36th week with a doctor’s note, but this is usually only permitted in rare cases and for short-haul flights. For longer international flights, flying after 36 weeks is typically prohibited.
3. Medical Certificate Requirements
Airlines often require a medical certificate for pregnant women flying after 28 weeks, particularly if you are in the third trimester. The certificate should confirm that you are fit to fly and that you do not have any medical conditions that would make air travel dangerous. A certificate may also be required if you have any medical complications or if you are flying close to your due date.
In the medical certificate, the doctor will typically need to:
- Confirm that the pregnancy is healthy and low-risk.
- Indicate the stage of pregnancy.
- Specify any special accommodations or considerations for flying.
- For those over 36 weeks, some airlines will only permit travel with a certificate confirming that there is no imminent risk of labor.
Special Considerations for Long Flights
Even if you are within the allowed time frame for flying, long flights may present additional risks that should be taken into account:
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Pregnancy increases the risk of developing blood clots, and long flights—especially those lasting several hours—can further increase the likelihood of DVT. To reduce the risk, pregnant women are encouraged to walk around the cabin, stay hydrated, and wear compression stockings.
Dehydration and Swelling: The dry air in the cabin can cause dehydration and exacerbate swelling in the legs and feet, which are common during pregnancy. It’s important to drink plenty of water, avoid salty snacks, and take regular walks to improve circulation.
Discomfort and Stress: Traveling while pregnant can be physically uncomfortable due to changes in body size, hormonal shifts, and the increased need for bathroom breaks. The stress of travel can also impact your emotional well-being, so it’s important to consider whether flying during pregnancy will cause unnecessary stress.
Tips for Safe Travel During Pregnancy
If your healthcare provider gives you the green light to fly, there are several tips to help ensure a safe and comfortable flight:
Choose a Comfortable Seat: Opt for a seat with extra legroom, if possible, to reduce swelling and improve circulation. A seat by the aisle allows for easier access to the bathroom and more opportunities to move around.
Wear Compression Socks: These help reduce the risk of swelling and DVT by promoting circulation in the legs.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in the dry cabin air.
Take Frequent Walks: Get up and walk around the cabin every hour to keep blood circulating.
Pack Snacks: Bring healthy snacks that are easy to digest and avoid foods that may trigger nausea or discomfort.
Conclusion
While flying during pregnancy is generally safe for most women, there are specific circumstances when air travel may be restricted or should be avoided altogether. The most important considerations include the stage of pregnancy, any pre-existing medical conditions, and the presence of pregnancy complications. After the 36th week of pregnancy, most airlines will not allow you to fly, and your healthcare provider may advise you to avoid flying if you have a high-risk pregnancy.
Always consult with your doctor before making travel plans to ensure that flying is safe for both you and your baby. By following medical advice and taking necessary precautions, you can minimize the risks associated with air travel during pregnancy and enjoy a safe and comfortable journey.
You Might Be Interested In:
