Last Updated: February 8, 2023
Can You Fly While Pregnant? Here’s What You Need To Know
If you’re newly pregnant and want to plan a romantic babymoon, visit distant relatives, or need to travel for business before welcoming your bundle of joy, you probably have lots of questions. Here is a comprehensive guide to putting your mind at ease before flying while pregnant.
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Can You Fly While Pregnant?
During the first 36 weeks of your pregnancy, it is safe to fly if you are in good health and not experiencing any complications. While most airlines allow pregnant passengers right up until week 36, you’ll want to research restrictions with the airline you’re going to book. And some airlines don’t allow pregnant passengers on international flights.
The airline may ask for a letter stating your due date and whether flying is advisable for you.
You’ll also want to get the “okay” from your healthcare provider or midwife. If you have complications that could get worse because of flying or require emergency care, they may want you to postpone your trip. Some conditions include high blood pressure or diabetes not well under control, a history of miscarriage, preeclampsia during a prior pregnancy, or vaginal bleeding.
If you’re pregnant with twins or multiples, your doctor may also advise you not to fly or recommend an earlier cut-off date. Your doctor may also want to know how far you’re flying. The length of the trip can make a difference.
Flying in the First Trimester
The first trimester of pregnancy includes the time of your first missed menstrual period until 13 weeks. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), “Pregnant women can observe the same basic precautions for air travel as the general public.” And you also don’t need to worry about metal detectors harming the baby.
The main thing to worry about during any trimester is blood clots since you’re seven times more likely to have them than a non-pregnant person.
The chief complaint of pregnant women during the first trimester is fatigue and morning sickness. Ask your doctor for advice before taking any anti-nausea medications to relieve it.
Flying in the Second Trimester
Once your doctor says it’s okay to fly, the second trimester (14 to 28 weeks) is the best time to schedule your trip. You’ll have more energy and morning sickness is less likely to interfere with your travel plans, especially if you’re going on that much-anticipated babymoon. It will be easier to sit for long periods and move around than it will be later on.
During the second trimester, you’re also at lower risk for premature labor or spontaneous abortion.
Flying in the Third Trimester
If you are in good health and not at risk for complications such as preeclampsia, placenta previa, gestational diabetes, or premature labor, it is generally safe to fly up until your 36th week. Patients at risk may be advised to limit flying (or any travel) after 24 weeks.
Consider also that it will be harder for you to sit for longer periods and get comfortable on a plane during the third trimester.
Some doctors and midwives advise only traveling within a 300-mile radius of home during the third trimester because of potential problems such as early labor.
The bottom line is, only fly during the third trimester on the advice of your healthcare provider.
Helpful Tips for Flying While Pregnant
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
You will be more comfortable during your flight if you wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes. A flowing skirt and top, a loose-fitting maxi dress, large sweaters, and clothing that is soft and stretchy work well. Most maternity outfits are specifically designed for comfort.
Sitting on long flights can cause your feet to swell. Never wear shoes that are tight-fitting since pregnant women are more at risk for blood clots or deep vein thrombosis.
Wear compression socks
Sitting on a long flight can increase the chance of blood clots or deep vein thrombosis for anyone, especially a pregnant woman. Your doctor may advise compression socks for your flight.
Move around
During a smooth flight, get up and walk around about every 30 minutes or so, or do leg exercises such as flexing and extending your ankles while in your seat. Don’t try to walk if the ride is bumpy or the plane is experiencing turbulence.
Stay hydrated
The humidity is low in aircraft cabins, so make sure to have your bottle of water with you and drink plenty. You’ll probably have to go to the bathroom more often, but this gives you a good chance to stretch and move your legs.
Watch what you eat
Avoid foods that tend to make you gassy before and during flying. Intestinal gas tends to expand at flight altitudes, and this can cause discomfort. If you are traveling abroad, you may encounter bacteria that cause diarrhea. Check with your doctor about what you can take for
Plan ahead
Try to plan ahead for any problems or emergencies that could come up before you travel. Check that your health insurance is valid while you are abroad. Also, check to see whether the plan will cover a newborn, should you deliver while away. You may want to think about getting supplemental travel and medical evacuation insurance.
Do your research
Find out information about medical facilities in your destination. If you’ll be traveling during the third trimester, make sure there are places that can manage pregnancy complications such as toxemia and C-sections. Your healthcare provider may be able to provide you with the names of doctors and hospitals at your destination.
Get some rest
Try to get as much rest as possible while on your trip. Exercise is important, but so is rest, so don’t wear yourself out.
Get vaccinated
Pregnant women are more at risk for complications from COVID-19, so make sure you get your shots and boosters as well as a flu shot. Consider wearing an N95 mask even if masking isn’t required at the time. Also, ask your doctor about any destination-specific vaccinations.
Fasten your seat belt
Don’t avoid wearing a seat belt on the plane just because you have a bigger belly. Fasten it below your hips at the pelvis level.
What are the risks of flying while pregnant?
The biggest threat to air travel while pregnant is the risk of venous thrombosis or blood clots. To lessen the risk, avoid tight clothing and shoes, walk up and down the aisle often, and wear compression socks. Radiation exposure isn’t a problem, but you should discuss it with your doctor if you will be flying frequently during your pregnancy.
When should a pregnant woman avoid flying?
Even for an uncomplicated pregnancy, expectant mothers should avoid flying from week 37 until delivery due to the risk of premature labor. Most airlines prohibit it anyway.
Pregnant women with the following risk factors should also avoid flying:
- cardiac disease
- severe anemia
- recent hemorrhage
- repository disease
- recent or current bone fractures
- preeclampsia
- premature rupture of membranes (PROM)
- history or risk of preterm labor
Which seat on the plane is ideal for a pregnant woman?
An aisle seat at the bulkhead will be more spacious and comfortable. Sitting in any aisle seat will make it more convenient for walking around or taking frequent trips to the bathroom. For the smoothest ride, choose a seat in the midplane region over the wind.
Do altitude & cabin pressure affect pregnancy?
No, cabin pressure will not affect a healthy pregnant woman or an unborn baby. Your heart rate and blood pressure will increase at higher altitudes which is why flying while pregnant isn’t recommended for those who have a history of blood clots, suffer from anemia, or have sickle cell disease.
About the Author Anna Timbrook
Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.
