To fly or not to fly?
- If you're healthy and have your doctor's okay, you can fly up until the 36th week
- Airlines may have their own rules, so it's best to check the rules before you buy your ticket
- Some airlines may only let you travel outside of the country before weeks 32 to 35
- Some may ask you to give them health-care forms before you fly
When to fly?
- The safest time to travel is during your second three months
- Most miscarriages happen during the first three months
- The last three months bring its own risks, like premature labor, high blood pressure and other problems.
Do not fly if...
Women who have any of these health problems should not fly while pregnant:
- Anemia/low blood cell count
- Sickle cell disease or trait
- History of blood clots
- Placental abnormalities
- Chance of going into premature labor
- High blood pressure
- Poorly controlled diabetes (high blood sugar)
If you're pregnant and not healthy, you may want to wait to travel long distances.
Is in-flight cabin pressure safe?
As long as your doctor expects you to have a healthy, normal pregnancy , you're not in danger from changes in an airplane's cabin pressure
Get comfy
To make air travel less stressful and help yourself relax:
- Reserve an aisle seat to give yourself more room
- Bring support hosiery to help avoid swelling in your feet and legs
- Pack acetaminophen (Tylenol® or generic) pills for minor pain
- Pack extra snacks and water
- Stroll up and down the aisle every hour to lower your chance of getting blood clots
- Bend and stretch your feet to help get your blood moving
- Drink plenty of liquids during the flight
- Avoid eating or drinking foods or drinks that give you gas before your flight
- If you suffer from upset stomach, your doctor may be able to give you medicine to help
- If you'll need routine health care where you are going, know what health-care clinics are there before you go
- Travel with a partner if you can
- Whether the airline calls for it or not, it's a good idea to carry papers with you that list your due date
Know when to get help
Seek urgent medical help for:
- Bleeding
- Vaginal discharge, including passing tissue or clots
- Stomach pains or cramps
- Contractions
- Ruptured membranes
- Very bad headaches
- Visual problems
- Too much leg swelling or pain
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