Whether it’s for business, personal needs or a babymoon(!), many pregnant people will need to take a flight during pregnancy. Although flying with your irremovable carry-on may be nerve-racking, cruising at 35,000 feet is, for the most part, safe during all three trimesters of a low-risk pregnancy, though, as always, speaking to your OB provider before flying is important.
Is it safe to fly when pregnant?
For the most part, occasional flying during pregnancy is safe. However, healthcare providers often recommend that you abstain from flying during the last weeks of pregnancy, sometimes as early as 33 or 34 weeks. There is very little risk of any negative effect caused by the altitude or speed – instead, the main concern is simply that you’ll go into labor and give birth on the plane – which isn’t the safest situation.
Before the plane
Before you even board your flight, there are several things to consider. Check out your destination, and make sure you know where you can access care for pregnancy in the rare event you might need it. Even in certain places in the US, hospitals may not have a unit equipped to care for you or Baby that is nearby. Knowing where to go is so important.
In case the unexpected happens, having a copy of your medical records related to pregnancy is very important. You may be able to access this electronically, but if not, consider asking your OB provider to print you a written copy.
How airlines treat pregnant flying
Giving birth on a flight is probably not the way you imagined delivering a baby, and “midwife” is definitely not part of a flight attendant’s job description. Because of this, some airlines make sure that women flying in late pregnancy are doing so with a healthcare provider’s approval.
Many airlines require a healthcare provider’s note past a certain point in pregnancy (as early as after month 7) that includes important information, including your due date. Airlines will also often make sure you to avoid sitting in the emergency exit row. You’ll still need security screening just like everyone else, and rest assured this is safe to do!
Keeping it cozy
As is commonplace for all things pregnancy, staying comfortable is probably the most important thing to take care of when you’re flying while pregnant. Sitting in an aisle seat is probably your best bet for the extra space and easier access to the toilet. It is safe to wear your lap belt across your hips as you normally would, and you should keep it fastened when seated. For longer flights, consider wearing compression stockings, as well as getting up every two hours and stretching periodically to help maintain your circulation and prevent blood clots. Stretchy and comfortable clothes are a must, so plan to change at your destination airport if necessary.
Stay healthy!
Staying hydrated while flying is great for your health, and will help you feel good when you arrive. Flying is a very dry environment, and that aisle seat will come in handy if you’re getting all of the water you need!
In addition, it can be helpful to pack some hand sanitizer and a mask. Crowded airports and planes expose you to a lot of germs, and pregnancy suppresses your immune system. A little precaution goes a long way.
The bottom line
Traveling while pregnant is a common and rewarding experience for many people. It’s always okay to opt-out if it doesn’t feel right or safe! Always feel free to ask your OB provider about your potential plan, and be sure to listen to any hesitations or concerns they may have for you.
Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team
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Sources
- Roger W. Harms, M.D. “Is it safe to fly during pregnancy?” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, 2/12/2013. Web.
- “Is it safe to fly while pregnant?” NHS. NHS Choices, 6/3/2015. Web.
