Air travel is generally safe for pregnant women, as long as there are no complications with the pregnancy and you are not flying too close to your due date. However, traveling pregnant does come with some warnings, such as an increased risk of blood clots and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) , especially during long flights. To ensure safe and comfortable air travel when pregnant, follow these tips from the Cheapflights team:
Quick tips for healthy air travel while pregnant
- Be aware of dehydration on airplanes, which can be worse when you’re pregnant.
- Make sure you have plenty of water with you, and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
- Pack vitamin-rich fresh fruit such as grapes, plums, oranges or dried apricots.
- Wear support hose and shoes with adjustable straps in case your feet swell.
- As always with flying, get up and walk around the cabin every two hours or so.
- Take an eye mask and ear plugs and wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Rest as much as possible while in the air.
When is the best time to fly?
According to the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, air travel is safest for pregnant women during the second trimester – weeks 18 to 24. If you are considering a flight during your pregnancy, check with both your doctor and the airline before you book.
General consensus in the medical community suggests it is best not to travel pregnant before 12 weeks due to morning sickness and possible increased risk of miscarriage. Though many pregnant women have no trouble flying in the first trimester, it is always better to err on the safe side and consult your physician.
After 28 weeks, when the risk of going into labor increases, most airlines will require a letter from your doctor stating that you are fit for air travel while pregnant and confirming your estimated due date. If you are more than 36 weeks pregnant, many airlines will not let you fly due to the increased risk of delivering onboard.
Each airline has its own rules for flying while pregnant
If you’re booking your flights with an agent, let them know that you’re pregnant when you book your flight and check that you are permitted to fly. If you’re booking your flights online, be sure to check the airline’s Web site. It is worth telephoning ahead to alert the airline about your pregnancy – this should also ensure that you get special service to keep you comfortable…
Make yourself comfortable
Especially during pregnancy, reserving the right seat on the airplane can make a difference. You will need to be able to get up and move around the plane.
Try and reserve a spacious seat when you make your booking. Many airlines’ Web sites have information about the varying legroom on each of their seats, or see our legroom report to find out how the different airlines size up. If you plan to travel pregnant, it's worth spending a few extra bucks to get a bit more room. Be aware though that traditional “extra legroom” seats, such as those on the exit aisles, are often not permitted to those who are pregnant.
If you can’t reserve ahead, arrive at the airport early and ask for a bulkhead seat. The bulkhead is the partition between business class and economy, for example.
It’s also useful to reserve an aisle seat if you can, especially if you’re traveling long-distance, which will save you having to squeeze past other passengers every time you want to get out of your seat.
Don’t be shy. Explain that you’re pregnant and ask if there is any possibility of being upgraded, or having a seat with a couple of open seats next to you.
Flight insurance considerations
Pregnant women can be seen as relatively high-risk, and many insurers will not provide air travel coverage if you have less than eight weeks to go before your due date. You could still claim losses unrelated to your pregnancy, but you might not be covered if you have to cancel your trip due to your pregnancy. To ensure peace of mind on flights while pregnant, look into air travel insurance.
Tips for your vacation
Once the flight’s over, it’s time to enjoy the vacation. Here are just a few more things to consider in pregnancy travel:
- Skin is more sensitive during pregnancy, so wear stronger sunscreen than usual.
- Keep a list of names and numbers to be contacted in case of emergency.
- Keep a list of local hospitals from the embassy or tourist board.
- Ask your doctor before embarking on any “dangerous” sports, such as diving or watersports.
- Bring your medical notes with you, in case you need to go into hospital or deliver early.
You’re on the ground. Relax and enjoy yourself on what could be your last diaper-free break for a while.
