Is Flying Safe During Pregnancy?

Air travel during pregnancy is generally safe for those without any obstetric or medical complications. However, pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before flying. Most airlines allow pregnant people to fly domestically until about 36 weeks of pregnancy, but it is essential to research before booking your flight.

During a healthy pregnancy, occasional air travel is almost always safe. The second trimester is the best time to fly, as you are likely to be over morning. Pregnant travelers can generally travel safely with appropriate preparation, but they should avoid certain destinations, including those with risk of Zika and malaria.

Recent cohort studies suggest no increase in adverse pregnancy outcomes for occasional air travelers. It is okay to fly during pregnancy unless your due date is near or your doctor says it is safer. Flying isn’t harmful to you or your baby, but discuss any health issues or pregnancy complications with your midwife or doctor before flying.

The middle three months of pregnancy are considered the safest months to fly, as the risks of miscarriage have diminished and complications, such as premature birth, have diminished. You can fly by plane during pregnancy even up to the 36th week (in the case of a single pregnancy) or 32nd week (in the case of a twin pregnancy). Most women can travel safely while pregnant, and flying does not increase the risk of early labor or miscarriage.

Which month of pregnancy is safe to travel by air?

The optimal time to travel during pregnancy is between 14 and 28 weeks, as energy returns, morning sickness subsides, and mobility is maintained. After 28 weeks, it may be challenging to move or sit for extended periods. If you have any further questions, consult your ob-gynologist. If you don’t have an ob-gyn, find a doctor nearby. This information is an educational aid for the public, offering current health information and opinions, but not a substitute for professional advice. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ disclaimer is also provided.

Why can’t you fly after 28 weeks pregnant?

The likelihood of labor increases after 37 weeks, especially if carrying twins. Some airlines may not allow flying towards the end of pregnancy. After week 28, airlines may request a letter from a doctor or midwife confirming the due date, but may require payment and wait several weeks. Long-distance travel carries a small risk of blood clots, so it’s important to drink plenty of water, move regularly, and buy graduated compression or support stockings to reduce leg swelling.

Is it bad for a pregnant woman to fly on a plane?

Air travel before 36 weeks of pregnancy is generally safe for those without any pregnancy problems. However, pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before flying to discuss potential complications that could worsen due to air travel or require emergency care. These complications include a history of miscarriage, severe anemia, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or diabetes. Pregnant women with preeclampsia, a condition causing high blood pressure and extra protein in urine, may also be advised not to fly.

Additionally, it is important to inform your provider about the distance of your flight, as the length of the flight might affect the safety of your pregnancy. Some airlines may not allow pregnant people on international flights, so it is crucial to check with your airline before making travel arrangements.

What countries should I avoid when pregnant?

Pregnant women should avoid traveling to areas with the Zika virus, such as South and Central America, the Caribbean, the Pacific islands, Africa, and Asia. Travel insurance can help ensure safety during pregnancy. It is essential to know the healthcare facilities at your destination and bring maternity medical records for urgent medical attention. Travel insurance should cover pregnancy-related medical care during labor, premature birth, and the cost of changing the return trip if you go into labor.

Can airport scanners detect pregnancy?

Pregnant women can safely walk through airport security scanners, regardless of the type of scanner used. Metal detector scanners use a low-frequency electromagnetic field to scan for metal objects, which are produced by electricity-generating devices like power lines and household appliances. This exposure is considered safe for everyone, including pregnant women, and hand-held scanning wands used by passengers.

Is air travel high risk during pregnancy?

Pregnant women with certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, blood clots, or a history of prenatal problems, should not travel by air. They should also avoid flying to high altitudes, disease outbreaks, or areas with common infections like Zika or malaria. Pregnant women with healthy pregnancies have no significant risks, but those with difficult pregnancies, particularly those involving the cardiovascular system, should discuss their flying plans with their doctor.

At what point can you no longer fly when pregnant?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that a woman’s safest time to travel is during the second trimester of pregnancy, from 14 to 28 weeks, as it is the time when the fetus is at its best and at the lowest risk for spontaneous abortion or premature labor. Healthcare providers and midwives advise staying within a 300-mile radius during the third trimester to avoid potential issues like high blood pressure, phlebitis, and false or preterm labor.

Air travel is generally not allowed after 36 weeks for domestic travel and 28 to 35 weeks for international travel. Pregnant women with certain conditions may be advised against traveling to countries that require pretravel vaccines, and it is important to discuss their health history with their healthcare provider before planning travel.

Are airport scanners safe for pregnancy?

The airport security checkpoint provides travelers with safe screening equipment, including for pregnant women. Should any queries arise pertaining to the screening process, it is recommended to view the travel tips video.

Which seat is good for pregnant ladies in flight?

When booking flight tickets, it’s crucial to choose a comfortable seat for a pregnant woman, such as an aisle seat or a seat near the front to minimize turbulence. Wear loose-fitting clothing and shoes, with layers that can be easily removed or added if needed. Compression stockings can also help reduce swelling in the legs. These tips will ensure a smooth and comfortable pregnancy journey.

Can flying harm early pregnancy?

Air pressure changes and humidity decreases during pregnancy are not harmful to both mother and baby. Flying does not cause miscarriage, early labor, or water breakage. While there is a slight increase in radiation exposure, occasional flights are not considered risky. However, women should avoid flying before 37 weeks of pregnancy, as they may go into labor at any time, and before 32 weeks for uncomplicated twin pregnancy.

Can I fly at 7 months pregnant?

Flying during the third trimester of pregnancy is acceptable, but it is advised to do so before 37 weeks or 32 weeks in an uncomplicated twin pregnancy, as you may go into labor after those dates. There is no evidence that flying causes miscarriage during the first trimester, but it is the riskiest time for miscarriage. If you plan to fly during the second trimester, it is considered the safest time to do so, as the risk of pregnancy-related complications, including miscarriage, is lower during this time compared to the first and third trimesters. It is important to consider the potential risks and potential side effects of flying during these periods.