Flying While Pregnant

How does pregnancy impact your ability to travel? Today we look at a few things to keep in mind before you book a ticket for an out of town wedding, or as you’re on the way to a babymoon of your dreams.

Is it safe to fly during pregnancy?

Typically, yes – although that answer doesn’t come without some caveats. Your doctor might advise against air travel if you have a high-risk pregnancy or a risk of going into pre-term labor. And many doctors, as well as airlines, don’t recommend that pregnant women fly after 36 weeks. AMERICAN AIRLINES, for example, requires a medical certificate if you have a normal, uncomplicated pregnancy and will be traveling within four weeks of your delivery date. This ARTICLE details the policies of 11 major airlines.

Once I’m on board, how should I handle the flight?

• Stay hydrated to prevent dehydration
• Get up and walk around to promote circulation
• If you have to remain seated, change positions often, and flex and extend your ankles to also promote circulation
• Depending on how pregnant you are, for optimal comfort you might want to consider if you’d prefer an aisle seat or a window seat, and secure one in advance
• Keep any medication you need (like prenatal vitamins) in your purse or carry-on, in case you encounter an issue and are separated from your bags
• Speaking of bags, try to make things as physically easy as possible – use suitcases with wheels, and should you need to lift something heavy into an overhead bin, ask for assistance

Each pregnancy is different, which is why it’s important to review your travel plans with your doctor as early as possible.