Pregnant ladies, if you are planning to travel by air, you should be aware of the airline company’s restrictions for pregnant women in regards to flying; whether you are flying domestically or internationally. Some airlines won’t allow you to travel 30 days prior to your due date, while others won’t let you onboard if your due date is less than seven days away. If you are pregnant, make it a point to mention it to your ticketing agent so you may clear the air regarding all restrictions since they have no call to mention it otherwise. Once everything is in the clear, it’s time to pack your bags and enjoy one more vacation before the baby comes along!
Before you Take The Air
Women who have complications in their pregnancies or who are considered to be ‘high risk’ should not travel! This includes women with poorly controlled diabetes, sickle cell disease, placental abnormalities, hypertension or those at risk for premature labor.
Whichever stage of pregnancy you are in, it is always a good idea to discuss your travel plans with your doctor before embarking on a journey by flight. It may also be a good idea to obtain a doctor’s note saying that it is alright for you to travel, especially if you are in your third trimester. Not to mention if you are planning to travel internationally, consulting your doctor is an absolute MUST!
Not every airline requires a doctor’s note to let you on the plane, but sometimes it is easier to take extra precaution in order to avoid any possible hold-backs when you’re trying to board. Equally as important, don’t forget to consider how close your due date will be when you come back.
Highlighted
Flying in the Early Stages of Pregnancy
Travelling by air during your first trimester of pregnancy is generally considered quite safe. The main concern over flying during this period is if it will make your pregnancy symptoms, like morning sickness and nausea, worse (you may want to make sure you have extra sick bags nearby, just in case). Keep in mind too, that a mildly blocked nose on the ground could become much worse once you’re in the air.
Long Haul Flight May Affect Your Circulation
Pregnancy can cause circulation problems in women. This is one issue you cannot afford to ignore if you’re pregnant and intend to travel by air. When it comes to long haul flight, you should know very well that circulation problems can happen. In order to survive a long flight, here are some useful tips to help keep your blood flowing:
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing.
- Invest in some compression stockings; these will help avoid your feet from swelling in-flight.
- Avoid crossing your legs.
- Stay hydrated.
The easiest thing you can do to keep your blood flowing is to move around. Go for a walk in the aisle every now and then. Make it a point to flex your feet, rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes often during the duration of your flight. These are simple little stretches you can do right in your seat without bothering anyone on the flight. If you are fortunate enough to have an empty seat next to you, then, by all means, take advantage of that extra space and put your feet up!
Pick your seat and buckle up!
As a pregnant belly grows bigger, comfort levels inevitably lower. Most airline seats are, unfortunately, known to have the most uncomfortable seat. Therefore, it might be a good idea to reserve your ideal seat.
Exit rows, aisle or window seats, and seats close to the front are typically considered the BEST SEATS on a plane. Do not forget to wear your seat belt to minimize risk of injury from unpredictable turbulence.
Be Prepared for the Unlikely
The general rule for travelling while pregnant would be the second trimester (14 through 27 weeks). If you are in your third trimester, it is not advisable to travel but if it is absolutely necessary, it would still be safe as long as your due date is not too close.
However, do prepare for the possibility of going into premature labor. Double-check that your health insurance is up-to-date and that your delivery will be covered in case your baby decides to make an appearance in the plane. You should also ask your doctor or midwife for a medical contact in your destination and carry a copy of your medical records with you.
In the event that you find yourself experiencing contractions while en route, notify the cabin crew immediately! It is very important as your flight will probably make an emergency landing at the closest airport so that you can get the necessary medical attention.
Pressure Issues
Cabin pressure is known to be of some concern for pregnant women. Today’s commercial flights have pressured cabins that are set to the equivalent of 5,000 to 8,000 feet. If you come from a low altitude area, the change in the air is obviously going to affect you. Your heart rate and blood pressure will increase to help your body with its oxygen intake and this might leave you feeling uncomfortable and even queasy.
For most pregnant women, this is not a major problem. However, if you have any sort of cardiovascular health issues, it is strongly recommended that you avoid flying.
Best Time For Air Travel?
It would be the second trimester. As morning sicknesses have usually subsided, risks of miscarriages are significantly lowered and there is the least chance of going into preterm labor at this point. It’s probably why many pregnant travel buffs take advantage of this newfound comfort and take to the skies.
Walk Right Through
Airport metal detectors are famous in instilling fears towards pregnant women. Well, here’s a good news for you. Those full-body x-ray scanners are absolutely safe for both you and your child!
Planning your year-end family holiday? Check out exciting family destinations, holiday tips and promotions on Motherhood Cuti- Cuti Family.