Provided There Are No Complications, Flying Is Fine
The short answer to the above question is yes. Provided your pregnancy is not complicated with medical problems, flying during your first and second trimesters is considered quite safe. It is important to check with your doctor to ensure any concerns or problems you may be experiencing are dealt with beforehand. Actually, you may find your second trimester is the perfect time to fly. You will have passed the stage of morning sickness which usually accompanies the first trimester, your energy levels will be high and the chances of miscarriage low. You can enjoy the break with your partner or take care of business without feeling dragged out and weary.
Check The Policies Of The Airline Beforehand
Some airlines are unwilling to take pregnant passengers past their 28th week because of concern about premature labor. It’s a good idea to get a letter from your doctor stating your ability to travel in the event that someone at the airline is worried about you. They can actually ground you if they feel you are at risk, which is why that doctor’s letter is a good idea.
Each airline has their own policies concerning restrictions for pregnant women, so it is a good idea to check ahead when you are booking your flight. Take into account how far along in your pregnancy you will be on your return trip, it might make a difference to your plans. Another thing to remember is that pregnant women should not fly on small planes that do not have pressurized cabins.
Those Uncomfortable Airline Seats Can Gender Problems
We are all familiar with how quickly an airline seat can become uncomfortable. It takes even less time if you’re pregnant. It is also important to be aware of the possibility of a medical emergency, which means that you don’t want to be making lengthy flights or go to places where medical services would be questionable.
The greatest concern for pregnant women who fly is the risk of blood clots, technically known as thromboembolic disease or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It has been given the name “economy class syndrome” because of the closeness of the seats in that class of travel, but it happens in any seat in the plane and is not confined to economy class. The risk of developing varicose veins also increases with the cramping of circulation caused by sitting in one position for too long a period of time.
A Few Things You Can Do To Avoid Trouble
Wearing support stockings when you fly helps to keep your circulation flowing and it also helps to relieve swollen veins. Get up and move around frequently and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. You may find that sitting in an aisle seat is advantageous positioning, especially if you are drinking enough water. You can more readily get up and down to the bathroom and to stretch your legs frequently. The movement and increased fluid intake greatly reduces the risk of blood clots. Don’t worry about “being a bother” to the flight crew. Barring a real emergency, they love to fuss over pregnant women.
Radiation in Flight
Air travel during pregnancy does expose a pregnant woman and the fetus to some degree of cosmic radiation due to the high altitude. Read more about the risks of radiation exposure in pregnancy.
