Can I fly by plane if I am pregnant? The reply is that you can. But, we can do it up to a specific week of our pregnancy, according to the laws of the airlines.
Is it prudent to travel by plane during pregnancy? Many women question themselves this same enigma when, for whatever purposes, they must prepare and plan their journey.
The most significant thing is always to have the guidance and advice of your doctor. Then, it is important to discuss the limitations established by different airlines. However and, on average, that limit between some airlines and others in between week 32 and 36 of pregnancy. [1]
Beyond that week 36 and beginning the ninth month of gestation, access to expected mothers is prohibited. Furthermore, we must also take into account detail. In the situation of multiple pregnancies ( twins, for example), companies can be more limiting, such as the German Lufthansa that does not grant access to twin pregnant women who are in week 28.
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What should we take into account before traveling by plane during pregnancy?
When it comes to traveling by plane during pregnancy, there is no major obstacle if we have not begun the most advanced stage of gestation. But, as always occurs in these cases, each woman is different and lives in a special situation. Sometimes circumstances like nausea limit future moms from traveling, even during the first trimester.
Other times, there may be premature health problems that make it hard not only to travel but also to complete other tasks, such as active work life. The most significant thing is to discuss it with our doctor so that he can prescribe what is most beneficial. Moreover, it is also a good recommendation to take into account very basic tips:
- When making the booking it is necessary to indicate to the airline the week of pregnancy in which we are. Many establish limitations and it is key to understand them.
- Schedule the trip well. Make certain that the country or city you are visiting will be able to handle you medically in case of what you require.
- It is most helpful to reserve a seat in the front row or the seat facing the entrance. In this way, access will be easier, as well as being able to move easily to go to the bathroom.
- Prepare a light hand-carry, but have the basics things for you. Wear sufficient clothes and shoes.
- You must add in your suitcase a travel kit with those medications that your doctor has prescribed.
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Tips during the flight
Traveling during pregnancy needs not improvising, as much as possible. Anticipating some things and holding the doctor’s phone number helpful, for example, is always a good choice. We recommend you to keep in mind these tips and tricks before traveling by plane during pregnancy.
You have a choice when accessing the plane
Most maximum airlines have introduced their policies to give preference to pregnant women when boarding. If you haven’t pre-booked your seat, always watch for the one most nearby to the bathroom. Furthermore, the one that is more capacious and that facilitates access to the corridor.
Seat belt
The belt should always go below your stomach. Avoid being overloaded.
Stay hydrated
You must drink plenty of water. Still, if this makes you have to go to the toilet constantly, it will enhance your circulation and enable you to dodge fluid retention problems.
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Feeding
When traveling by plane during pregnancy, it is suggested that you bring your own food. If they provide you access to the cabin with your travel bag, don’t ignore to incorporate healthy snacks and fresh fruit. Avoid resorting to fizzy beverages.
Walking and exercising to activate circulation
Every hour of travel you must go out to stretch your legs. Stimulating circulation diminishes the risk of thrombosis.
On the other hand, it will also benefit us to do simple exercises for the hands and feet. Simply hold your fists for a few seconds and then rest. As for your lower limbs, try to perform round steps with which to move your anklebones.
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Caution when traveling by plane during pregnancy
Studies, such as those carried out at the University of Bristol, show us that traveling by plane does not act a risk. There have been, yes, particular complications on journeys of more than 4 hours. This is when the risk of venous thromboembolism increases a bit. But the risk, we insist, is low.
The most significant thing in all cases is to follow the directions of the doctors. Also, knowing in advance the limitations that each particular airline practices will help us to plan the trip with more comprehensive security.