Can You Fly While Pregnant: Safety Guidelines While Travelling During Pregnancy

Traveling is commonly permissible until the last weeks of gestation, but preventive measures should be taken based on the timing of the trip and the gestation's danger level.

It's essential to recognize these concerns before planning the next vacation. Airlines usually permit pregnant females to fly up to week 36, but it's essential to study any constraints before booking.

Consulting with your OB-GYN or midwife is suggested, especially if there's a bigger danger of pregnancy difficulties. Before traveling, consider getting travel insurance, as it can be helpful if situations change, or health concerns arise, prompting the need to delay or cancel plans.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommended against travel for pregnant females with certain difficulties, such as preeclampsia or preterm labor danger.

Flying While Pregnant: Guidance for Each Trimester

During the first trimester, air travel is commonly safe, and concerns about metal detectors hurting the fetus are misleading. However, pregnant passengers should be cautious of the higher danger of blood clots, especially during long flights, and take preventive measures such as booking an aisle chair and moving around regularly. It's also recommended to discuss with a healthcare provider about managing morning sickness and fatigue.

In the second trimester, considered the best time for travel according to ACOG, hydration and wearing support stockings to reduce swelling and clot risk are recommended. Additionally, familiarizing yourself with nearby hospitals in your destination is wise in case of emergencies, especially if carrying twins or multiples, which might require earlier cessation of travel due to increased complication risks.

For the third trimester, travel is generally permissible until week 36 for healthy individuals, although it's essential to consider any existing complications.

Higher-danger patients, including those with conditions like pregnancy-induced hypertension or diabetes, may have stricter travel restrictions. Consulting with a healthcare provider before traveling late in gestation is essential to safeguard the safety of both mom and baby.

Read Also: Early Labor Signs: Indications and Manifestations as Labor Approaches

Putting Pregnancy-Related Risks into Perspective During Air Travel

Although there is a mild rise in this danger, they are not commonly important concerns.

• Blood clots: Remaining seated for extended periods during gestation can lead to blood pooling in the legs, heightening the danger of blood clots. Causes such as recirculated cabin air and low humidity further add to this danger. However, the risk remains relatively low. To alleviate it, it's suggested to move around as suggested by the doctor.
• Blood pressure and heart rate: Pregnancy combined with air travel may cause a temporary rise in blood pressure and heart rate. However, experts signify that these changes are commonly not important enough to pose any important risk.

• Body scans: According to the Transportation Security Administration, the body scan technology used for airport security is safe for gestation females. However, if preferred, you can request a hand search or the use of a wand instead.
• Radiation: Random flights commonly do not pose radiation-related issues for most pregnant females. However, regular flyers, such as business travelers, pilots, or flight attendants, may surpass the safe radiation restriction during pregnancy. It's recommended to consult your doctor for guidance if you fall into this category.

Related Article: When Does Third Trimester Start: Guide to the Concluding Phase of Pregnancy