Pregnancy changes certain aspects of life, but travel is generally fine to continue even by air. Some pregnant women with preexisting health conditions or high-risk pregnancies face greater restrictions on when they are able to fly safely. Check with your health care provider if you are unsure whether flying is safe during your pregnancy.
Time Frame
As long as your pregnancy is problem-free, you are generally safe to fly until the very end of your pregnancy. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends traveling between 14 and 28 weeks of gestation because this is the period of the pregnancy least likely to involve emergencies or problems. You are also able to move around better than you can later in pregnancy without as much exhaustion. Unless necessary, flying during the last month of pregnancy isn't recommended.
Risks
The access to medical assistance if a problem arises while on the flight is a concern for pregnant women. This is especially true if your pregnancy is considered high risk for any reason. Even a women with a healthy pregnancy could experience problems unexpectedly. A flight lasting more than four hours increases your risk of deep vein thrombosis, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. DVT causes blood clots in the veins that sometimes travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. The high altitude means you are exposed to high levels of radiation. If you fly frequently, this exposure may go beyond the recommended amount.
Airline Policies
Airlines set their own guidelines for traveling on the flights. Before you book a trip, call the airline or check on the company's website to determine if they restrict flights for pregnant women. Some companies may not allow you to fly after a particular point in your pregnancy. The cutoff is often 36 weeks into the pregnancy, but international travel is often restricted sooner in the pregnancy. Some airlines require you to provide medical documentation from your physician stating that you are able to fly. Understand the requirements and restrictions before your trip to avoid a missed flight.
Tips
Always check with your prenatal care provider before planning air travel to ensure you aren't at risk. Choose an aisle seat when possible to give you more comfort and to allow you to get up easily. Walk around the plane when possible, especially on longer flights, to improve your circulation and reduce your risk of DVT. Keep yourself hydrated with plenty of water. Loose clothing also helps with your comfort level and prevents restriction of your blood flow.
