Traveling during pregnancy can be an exciting prospect, whether it’s for a babymoon, visiting family, or necessary travel. For many expectant mothers, flying is a convenient and efficient way to reach their destination. However, it’s crucial to understand that while air travel is generally safe for pregnant women, there are specific situations and times when it might be best to avoid flying. Knowing When Should You Not Fly When Pregnant is essential for ensuring both your well-being and the health of your baby.
While most women can fly safely during pregnancy, it’s important to be informed about potential risks and necessary precautions. Airlines and healthcare professionals often advise on the safest periods for flying and highlight circumstances where air travel should be reconsidered or avoided altogether. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of when flying during pregnancy might not be advisable, helping you make informed decisions for a safe journey.
Situations When Flying Might Be Discouraged or Not Recommended
There are several scenarios during pregnancy where flying is either not recommended or actively discouraged. These situations primarily revolve around the trimester of pregnancy, potential pregnancy complications, and specific health risks associated with air travel.
First Trimester Considerations
The first trimester, spanning from week 1 to week 12, is often associated with common pregnancy discomforts such as nausea and vomiting, commonly known as morning sickness, and significant fatigue. While these symptoms themselves are not direct contraindications to flying, they can make travel significantly less comfortable. Furthermore, the risk of miscarriage is statistically higher during the first trimester, regardless of whether you are traveling or not. While flying does not increase this risk, some women prefer to avoid travel during this period for peace of mind and to be close to their healthcare providers should any concerns arise.
Third Trimester and Late Pregnancy
As pregnancy progresses into the third trimester, particularly after 36 weeks, the likelihood of going into labor naturally increases. Most airlines implement restrictions on flying for women in late pregnancy due to the potential risks associated with in-flight labor. For single pregnancies, many airlines restrict travel after the 37th week. This limit is often reduced to around 32 weeks for women carrying twins or multiple babies due to the higher risk of premature labor. It is imperative to check directly with your chosen airline regarding their specific policies on pregnancy and air travel, as these can vary.
Pregnancy Complications
Certain pregnancy complications can make flying inadvisable. If you are experiencing any of the following conditions, it is crucial to consult with your doctor or midwife before considering air travel:
- Placenta previa: This condition, where the placenta lies low in the uterus and covers the cervix, can increase the risk of bleeding, which could be complicated to manage mid-flight.
- Vaginal bleeding: Any unexplained vaginal bleeding during pregnancy requires medical evaluation, and flying is generally not recommended until the cause is identified and the condition is stable.
- Risk of premature labor: Women with a known risk of premature labor should avoid flying in the later stages of pregnancy and potentially earlier, as advised by their healthcare provider.
- Severe anemia: Significant anemia can exacerbate the effects of lower oxygen levels at altitude in an airplane, potentially posing risks.
- Uncontrolled gestational diabetes or hypertension: These conditions require close medical management, and flying might complicate access to immediate care if needed.
- History of ectopic pregnancy or molar pregnancy: These conditions can sometimes have ongoing implications that might make air travel less safe.
- Severe morning sickness (hyperemesis gravidarum): If nausea and vomiting are severe and lead to dehydration, flying can worsen discomfort and potential complications.
This list is not exhaustive, and any pre-existing medical conditions or pregnancy-related complications should be discussed with a healthcare professional to assess the safety of air travel in your individual circumstances.
Travel to Zika-Risk Areas
Travel to regions with a known risk of Zika virus transmission is strongly discouraged for pregnant women and those planning to become pregnant. Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. Areas with Zika virus risk include parts of South and Central America, the Caribbean, the Pacific Islands, Africa, and Asia. It is vital to check travel advisories and health recommendations from organizations like the CDC or WHO before planning any travel during pregnancy, and avoid Zika-affected areas entirely if possible.
Lack of Adequate Healthcare at Destination
Before traveling, especially internationally, it is important to research the availability and quality of healthcare facilities at your destination. In case of a pregnancy-related emergency, access to prompt and adequate medical care is paramount. If you are traveling to a remote location or an area with limited medical resources, you should carefully consider the risks and perhaps postpone travel, especially in later stages of pregnancy or if you have any pre-existing conditions. Always ensure your travel insurance covers pregnancy-related medical care, including premature birth and potential changes to your return travel dates due to medical reasons.
General Guidelines for Safe Flying During Pregnancy (When it IS Generally Safe)
While it’s important to know when to avoid flying, for many pregnant women, air travel is safe, especially during the second trimester (between 14 and 27 weeks). This period is often considered the most comfortable for travel as morning sickness usually subsides, and you are not yet heavily pregnant.
Best Time to Fly
The second trimester is generally considered the optimal time for pregnant women to fly. During this period, the risks associated with the first and third trimesters are lower, and many women feel their best physically. However, regardless of the trimester, always consult your healthcare provider before making travel plans to ensure it is safe for your specific pregnancy.
Airline Policies and Doctor’s Letter
After the 28th week of pregnancy, airlines may request a letter from your doctor or midwife confirming your due date and stating that you are not at risk of complications that would prevent you from flying. This letter is often valid for a limited period, sometimes only a few days or weeks before your flight. It’s essential to check the specific requirements of your airline well in advance of your travel date and allow enough time to obtain the necessary documentation from your healthcare provider, as there may be a fee and processing time involved.
Reducing DVT Risk
Long-distance travel, especially flights longer than four hours, carries a slight risk of developing blood clots, also known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Pregnancy itself increases the risk of DVT. To minimize this risk during air travel:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight.
- Move frequently: Get up and walk around the cabin every 30 minutes or so. If space is limited, perform ankle and calf muscle exercises while seated.
- Wear compression stockings: Graduated compression or support stockings can help improve blood circulation in your legs and reduce swelling. These are available from pharmacies and can be particularly beneficial for longer flights.
Travel Insurance
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers pregnancy-related medical care. This should include coverage for unexpected events such as pregnancy complications, premature labor, and any necessary changes to your travel plans due to medical issues. Review the policy details carefully to understand what is covered and any exclusions related to pregnancy.
Conclusion
Deciding when should you not fly when pregnant is a crucial aspect of safe travel planning for expectant mothers. While flying is generally safe for healthy pregnant women, particularly in the second trimester, certain conditions and circumstances warrant careful consideration and consultation with healthcare providers. Avoiding travel during the first and late third trimesters, being aware of airline restrictions, and understanding the risks associated with pre-existing conditions and travel to Zika-affected areas are all vital components of making informed decisions. Always prioritize your health and the well-being of your baby by seeking medical advice before flying during pregnancy and ensuring you are well-prepared for your journey.
