Pregnancy flying restrictions

Flying while pregnant? Here’s what you need to know

Editors note: This guide has been updated with the latest information.

During pregnancy, seemingly harmless things like eating deli meat and cleaning your cat's litter box are suddenly off-limits, along with more obvious restrictions on sports like skiing and scuba diving.

But what about "grey area" activities like flying in an airplane?

There's no single set of guidelines governing air travel during pregnancy and every airline has different restrictions, timelines and requirements. Some airlines may also require a medical certificate from a primary attending doctor or midwife for air travel during the final months of pregnancy, though even that varies, with U.S. airlines typically offering more flexibility than international carriers.

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In the absence of clear guidelines, TPG turned to Dr. Nithya Gopal, a board-certified OB-GYN physician and the Director of OB-GYN services at Viva Eve in New York City, for her expert recommendations on safe air travel during pregnancy.

Here's what she had to say:

Is it safe to fly when you are pregnant?

There is no evidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes due to flying, according to Dr. Gopal.

"The general consensus is that it is safest to fly in the first and second trimesters," Dr. Gopal told The Points Guy. "While the first and third trimesters tend to be when the most obstetric emergencies are going to happen, I personally become more cautious with my patients after 32 weeks because of the increased risk for premature labor and the possibility of needing urgent medical attention when you are in the sky."

(Photo by Caiaimage/Agnieszka Olek/Getty Images)

The most important thing you can do, no matter how far along you are in your pregnancy, is to consult with your healthcare provider before flying.

"Any time you are planning to fly during pregnancy, you should be having that conversation," Dr. Gopal said. Your provider will be familiar with any safety precautions you should take to ensure a safe and healthy flight.

Related: Guide to flying in each trimester of pregnancy

The airline you are flying may have its own cutoff, so you will want to confirm with it beforehand whether you will be allowed to fly if you are in (or nearing) your third trimester. We've included a chart below that outlines the rules for most major airline carriers.

What can you do to stay comfortable on a flight?

(Photo by Nadezhda1906/Getty Images)

When you factor in morning sickness and general pregnancy discomfort with the increased risk for blood clots that all fliers need to be aware of, flying during pregnancy can be uncomfortable even when it is deemed safe.

Dr. Gopal shared her recommendations for addressing these common issues when you take to the (baby-) friendly skies during pregnancy. Her number one tip for staying comfortable while in flight is to wear compression socks to help maintain blood flow and reduce swelling in the legs.

In addition, "I also tell my patients to get up and move at least every hour when they are on the plane," Dr. Gopal said.

To prevent clotting, "some doctors may also prescribe a low-dose aspirin," she added. "It isn't something that is recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), but it isn't harmful, either."

If it's nausea or acid reflux that ail you, there are medications generally considered safe that you can take to alleviate your symptoms. These would be the same ones prescribed by your doctor for morning sickness, so speak with your provider before your flight to ensure you have what you need at the ready.

Dr. Gopal also advises wearing loose, unrestrictive clothing (along with your seatbelt, or course) and drinking extra fluids to counteract the pressurized air in the cabin and keep you hydrated.

"Over-the-counter Gas-X may also help with bloating that can happen as a result of the pressurized air," Dr. Gopal said.

Related: What happens when a baby is born in flight?

Must you speak with your healthcare provider before flying?

(Photo by Fly View Productions/Getty Images)

Even if your pregnancy is considered low-risk, it's always a smart idea to speak with your healthcare provider before flying. "There are a number of potential risks that go along with flying during pregnancy and those risks can change from week to week and month to month, so it's important to have that honest conversation with your doctor," Dr. Gopal said.

Related: Things You Should Do Before, During and After Flying to Stay Healthy

There are certain pregnancy conditions that may make flying more risky or unadvisable. If you are hypertensive, asthmatic or prone to clotting disorders, it's even more critical to speak with your doctor before flying.

Airline policies differ, but if you need documentation, it never hurts to include enough detail to satisfy the most stringent airline requirements.

"As with many things related to air travel, it's better to be safe than sorry," Dr. Gopal said. "It's definitely worth it, and sometimes necessary, to have medical documentation from your provider's office."

A thorough medical certificate or waiver should state:

The number of weeks of pregnancy.
The estimated delivery date.
Whether the pregnancy is single or multiple.
Whether there are any complications.
That you are in good health and fit to travel through the date of your final flight.

Additionally, the certificate should be:

Written on official clinic or hospital letterhead if possible.
Signed by the doctor or attending midwife.
Be dated no later than 72 hours before the departure date.
Be written in clear, simple English.

Carry this certificate with you on your flight. Some airlines won’t ask to see it, but others will. Some airlines also may have their own documentation requirements. See the chart below to find out which airlines require it.

Airline policies for pregnant women

Airline	Before 28 weeks	Between 29-36 weeks	After 37 weeks (33 weeks if pregnant with multiples)
Air Canada	No restrictions.	No restrictions.	Travel not permitted.
Air France	No restrictions.	No restrictions.	No restrictions.
Alaska Airlines	No restrictions.	No restrictions.	No restrictions.
American Airlines	No restrictions.	Travel permitted; requires medical certificate beginning 4 weeks before your due date.	For international travel, or travel over water, clearance from a special assistance coordinator is required, as well as a medical certificate dated within 48 hours of departure date. For domestic flights under 5 hours, travel within 7 days of due date or 7 days after birth requires special permission from an American Airlines special assistance coordinator.
British Airways	No restrictions but recommend that you carry a letter stating whether your pregnancy is single or multiple, expected due date and that there are no complications.	Travel not permitted after the end of the 32nd week if pregnant with multiple babies.	Travel not permitted after the end of the 36th week if pregnant with one baby.
Cathay Pacific	Travel permitted. For pregnancies with known complications, passengers must complete a Cathay medical form no less than 48 hours before travel and receive clearance from the airline to travel.	Travel permitted. Requires medical certificate dated within 10 days of departure date. Travel not permitted for uncomplicated multiple pregnancy after the 32nd week.	Travel not permitted. Medical clearance required for mothers traveling within 7 days after birth. Infants are not permitted to travel within 48 hours after birth, and require medical clearance between 3-7 days after birth.
Delta Air Lines	No restrictions. Does not waive pregnancy-related change fees and penalties.	No restrictions. Does not waive pregnancy-related change fees and penalties.	No restrictions. Does not waive pregnancy-related change fees and penalties.
Emirates	No restrictions	Travel permitted; requires medical certificate	Requires prior clearance from Emirates Medical Services. Infants are not permitted to travel within 7 days of birth without necessity, and only with prior medical clearance.
Etihad	No restrictions.	Travel permitted; requires medical certificate. Travel not permitted for multiple pregnancy in the 33rd week and after.	Travel not permitted.
Frontier Airlines	No restrictions, but pregnant travelers are urged to discuss air travel with their physician.	Travel permitted.	Travel permitted, but those in the last month of pregnancy are urged to be examined by their physician shortly before travel to confirm it is safe.
Hawaiian Airlines	No restrictions.	No restrictions until 30 days before delivery date.	Medical certificate required within 7 days of due date within Hawaii. Statement from your physician dated within 48 hours of travel required for travel beyond Hawaii within 30 days of due date.
JAL	No restrictions	Medical certificates required for travel beginning the 36th week, when due date is unknown, if multiple births are expected or if there has been a previous premature delivery.	When the due date is in 14 days or less, an obstetrician must accompany the expectant mother on the flight.
JetBlue	No restrictions.	No restrictions.	Travel permitted; travel within 7 days of due date requires medical certificate dated within 72 hours of departure time.
KLM Royal Dutch	No restrictions; recommended to consult your physician for multiples or pregnancy complications.	No restrictions; recommended to consult your physician for multiples or pregnancy complications.	No restrictions; recommended to consult your physician for multiples or pregnancy complications.
Lufthansa	No restrictions.	No restrictions for single pregnancy. Those pregnant with multiples may not travel after the 28th week. Medical certificate recommended.	Travel not permitted.
Singapore Airlines	No restrictions.	Travel permitted; requires medical certificate dated within 10 days of departure date beginning in the 28th week. Uncomplicated multiple pregnancy permitted to travel with medical certificate until the 32nd week.	Travel not permitted.
Southwest Airlines	No restrictions.	No restrictions.	Travel permitted but not recommended after 38 weeks; pregnant women may be asked to not sit in emergency rows.
Spirit Airlines	No restrictions.	No restrictions.	Travelers are urged to obtain an examination from their physician shortly before travel once they enter the 8th month of pregnancy.
United Airlines	No restrictions.	No restrictions up until the 36th week when you need the original and 2 copies of an obstetrician’s certificate dated within 72 hours of departure.	Medical certificate required, dated no later than 72 hours before departure; 24 hours is preferred. Original certificate must be presented to airline at check-in; the other two copies must be kept on hand during travel.
Virgin Atlantic	No restrictions.	Travel permitted; medical certificate required beginning at 28 weeks; multiple pregnancies can only fly only until the 32nd week.	Travel not permitted unless necessary for urgent medical or compassionate reasons. Travel under these conditions requires approval from Virgin Atlantic’s medical team (contact the airline directly for details) and a companion is strongly recommended.
Virgin Australia	No restrictions.	Travel permitted; requires a medical certificate dated within 10 days of departure date once you reach 28 weeks.	For flights longer than four hours, travel is not permitted after 36 weeks of pregnancy (32 weeks if pregnant with multiples), or within 48 hours of normal vaginal delivery. For flights shorter than four hours, travel is not permitted after 40 weeks of pregnancy (36 weeks if pregnant with multiples), or within 48 hours of normal vaginal delivery.

Bottom line

(Photo by skynesher/Getty Images)

Even though it may be deemed safe, flying during pregnancy can be uncomfortable — and it is perfectly acceptable to implement your own cutoff for flying with your baby bump in tow.The majority of the time, though, flying is perfectly safe during pregnancy, providing that you follow the guidelines of the airline and your healthcare provider.Read on to learn more about traveling before, during and after pregnancy:

What to expect in every trimester of pregnancy
4 tips for planning travel while planning a pregnancy
Babymoon boom! These are the top 10 spots for a US getaway before the baby comes
Flying with a baby checklist

Additional reporting by Katherine Fan and Tarah Chieffi.

Can You Fly When Pregnant? Airline Policies, Risks, Tips

Medically reviewed by Holly Ernst, PA-C — By Jane Chertoff on July 20, 2018

Flying while pregnant

During a healthy pregnancy, it’s generally safe to fly until 36 weeks. Most airlines in the United States allow pregnant women to fly domestically in their third trimester before the 36th week. Some international flights restrict travel after 28 weeks.

Flying isn’t usually recommended if you have a pregnancy complication, including:

preeclampsia
premature rupture of membranes
preterm labor

Always check with your doctor before flying during pregnancy to confirm it’s safe for you.

Certain airlines may also require a medical certificate from a doctor during the last month of pregnancy. Call the airline ahead of time to find out their policy and what documents you may need.

What are the policies on different airlines?

Each airline has a slightly different policy for plane travel during the third trimester of pregnancy. For that reason, it’s important to call the airline or check their website for their guidelines before your trip.

For example, Delta Airlines currently has no restrictions on flying during pregnancy and doesn’t require a medical certificate. But American Airlines requires a doctor’s certificate if your due date is within four weeks of your flight. It must state that you’ve been recently examined and are cleared to fly.

Airlines may also have different requirements if you’re carrying more than one baby. The policy held by British Airways states that women carrying one baby can’t travel beyond the end of the 36^th week, and women carrying more than one baby can’t travel after the end of the 32^nd week.

Even if your airline doesn’t require a medical certificate to travel, it’s a smart idea to ask your healthcare provider for one anyway, regardless of how far along you are.

Although it’s not always clear if it’s legal or not for gate agents to ask how far along in your pregnancy you are, airlines have denied pregnant women from boarding in the past. Having a note from your doctor or midwife could ease your mind. That way, you won’t have to worry about whether or not you’ll be allowed on the plane.

Policies by airline

Below are the policies for some of the major airlines around the world, but you should always confirm an airline’s policy on their website or over the phone before booking travel. Policies may change at any time and speaking with the airline directly is the best way to find out their current policy.

Long-distance travel during pregnancy

The guidelines for long-distance travel during pregnancy are typically the same for domestic or local flights. But for international flights, certain airlines may have some restrictions for women in their third trimester.

For example, American Airlines requires clearance from the airline’s special coordinator if you’re flying internationally within four weeks of your due date, or seven days before or after your delivery. They’ll confirm that you’ve been examined by a doctor within the last 48 hours before your flight and are cleared to fly.

If you’re planning to travel a long distance or internationally during pregnancy, the second trimester is the ideal time to do so.

DVT, flying, and pregnancy

Pregnant women are at increased risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Flying also increases risk for DVT.

To prevent DVT while flying, it’s important to drink lots of water and other fluids throughout your flight. You should also wear loose-fitting clothing and get up to walk and stretch at regular intervals on the plane. At a minimum, get up to walk at least every two hours. You may also consider wearing compression stockings to prevent swelling in your feet and lower legs.

Are metal detectors safe during pregnancy?

Airport X-rays and advanced imaging technology are generally considered safe for all passengers, including pregnant women.

If you’re concerned, you request a pat-down screening instead of walking through a metal detector. Tell the officer at airport security you’re pregnant and are opting for a pat-down. A female security officer will inform you of the process and perform the screening.

Tips for safe travel during pregnancy

If you’re flying during pregnancy, follow these tips to stay safe and healthy:

dress comfortably in loose clothing and flat shoes
book an aisle seat so you can stretch your legs and use the restroom easily
get up to walk the aisles at least every two hours
avoid gas-producing foods and carbonated beverages before your flight
bring a water bottle and stay hydrated throughout the flight
pack healthy snacks for when you get hungry

It’s also a good idea to see your doctor before your trip. They can confirm it’s safe for you to travel.

If you’re pregnant, you should avoid travel to any countries with the Zika virus. You can find up-to-date travel guidance information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Before your trip, research the closest hospital to your destination in the event of an emergency, and take a copy of your prenatal records with you just in case you need to see a doctor while you’re away from home.

The takeaway

For many women, the best time to fly is during the second trimester. That’s when morning sickness has likely subsided and your energy levels will be highest.

If you need to fly earlier or later in your pregnancy, it’s likely safe up to 36 weeks if you’re carrying a single baby, or up to 32 weeks if you’re carrying multiple babies. Always talk to your doctor before your flight to confirm it’s safe for you. They can also provide a medical certificate with your due date listed.

Before you fly, also review your airline’s specific policies for pregnancy on their website.

Last medically reviewed on July 20, 2018

Parenthood
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Health

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

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Pregnant travelers. (2017).
wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/pregnant-travelers
Travel during pregnancy. (2017).
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TSA travel tips for pregnant passengers. (2014).
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Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Jul 20, 2018

Jane Chertoff

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Nizam Khan (TechSpace)

Medically Reviewed By

Holly Ernst, PA-C

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Medically reviewed by Holly Ernst, PA-C — By Jane Chertoff on July 20, 2018

Flying on vacation while pregnant.

Rules, recommendations, tips

ATOR Bulletin, with the help of gynecologists and insurers, has compiled a set of the most important tips and recommendations that pregnant women will need when planning, preparing, flying and staying on a summer beach holiday - from choosing insurance to the rules of safe tanning and nutrition.

Vestnik ATOR was told about the details and nuances of organizing summer vacation during pregnancy:

Natalya Badikova , obstetrician-gynecologist with 13 years of experience, urogynecologist, PhD

Yulia Alcheeva , executive director of the insurance company ERV, the largest monotourism insurance company in Russia

From our review you will find out:

At what period of pregnancy can you fly on vacation, and when is it better to stay at home
Until what week of pregnancy can you fly on vacation abroad
Which insurance to choose for pregnant women
What needs to be done before a vacation for a pregnant woman and what documents to take
What are the symptoms of a pregnant woman to postpone the trip
Plane, car, train - which is safer for pregnant women?
Is it possible for pregnant women to pass the scanner during security screening at the airport
Air travel during pregnancy: how to behave and what to take with you
Which country to choose for a beach vacation during pregnancy
How to sunbathe during pregnancy
Where it is safe to swim while pregnant - sea or swimming pool
How to eat while pregnant on vacation
What to do if you find out you are pregnant while on vacation

I.

PLANNING A PREGNANCY HOLIDAY

WHEN PREGNANT WOMAN CAN GO ON HOLIDAY AND WHEN IT IS BETTER TO STAY AT HOME

during pregnancy, exclude pathological conditions.

To eliminate the risks of early booking, pregnant women should always take extended insurance when buying a tour - with the trip cancellation insurance option included. If you found out about pregnancy after buying the tour, you should purchase such insurance separately, as well as special medical insurance (but more on that later).

According to doctors and insurers, if there are no medical contraindications, it is best to go on a beach vacation with air travel in the second trimester of pregnancy, with some restrictions - in the first and first half of the third trimester (up to 31 weeks)

“The gestation period is from 14 weeks to 23 weeks, according to medical practice, the most “calm” and relatively safe period for flights and any travel,” says Natalya Badikova, obstetrician-gynecologist.

Pregnancy from 14 weeks to 23 weeks, according to medical practice, the most "calm" and relatively safe period for flights and any travel

According to doctors, it's not just that before the 12th week, pregnant women often experience toxicosis, which manifests itself in fatigue, nausea, poor health, changes in taste preferences, etc., which, of course, does not contribute to a peaceful rest. But also in the fact that until the 14th week inclusive, in the body of a woman there is an intensive main "laying" of all the systems and organs of the baby - and it is important not to interfere with her. In addition, in Russia, the most important screening during pregnancy is performed just at the end of the first trimester - from 11 to 14 weeks. This screening includes specialized ultrasound diagnostics, calculation of the individual risk of having a child with a chromosomal pathology, and a number of other complex studies. It is highly undesirable to miss it, so traveling far from the place of medical observation from the 11th to the 14th week of pregnancy is best excluded altogether.

The same rule applies to 18-21 weeks - at this time, pregnant women undergo a second screening (perinatal diagnosis of fetal anomalies, a very important study), so you need to be within reach of the clinic where it is carried out and plan the start and end dates correctly tour so as to have time to pass this examination.

TILL WHAT WEEK OF PREGNANCY CAN YOU FLY ON A VACATION ABROAD PREGNANCY

Note that the third trimester of pregnancy is generally not recommended for travel with air travel and climate change. In particular, doctors consider it highly undesirable to fly on vacation from the 28th week of pregnancy until childbirth if:

aggravated obstetric and gynecological history (earlier termination of pregnancy, miscarriages, miscarriages, serious gynecological diseases, etc.)
there are serious somatic comorbidities, including autoimmune diseases
we are talking about a multiple pregnancy (twins or triplets).

However, if the pregnancy proceeds normally, without complications, then the tourist can go on a beach holiday abroad, but so that it ends no later than 31 weeks of pregnancy.

Why this period? The point is not only the increased risk at this stage, but also the fact that all special insurance products existing in Russia with options for pregnant women provide insurance coverage for medical expenses for pregnant women only up to 31 weeks as a maximum. Therefore, all trips of pregnant women, starting from the 32nd week, will not be insured by any insurance company. There are simply no such policies - which means that complications or premature births abroad threaten with huge amounts billed for treatment.

After 32 weeks, both doctors and insurers give good advice to everyone: do not travel abroad, unless it is about some difficult life situations. This advice should be taken very seriously. The statistics of the largest travel insurer, ERV, are disappointing: 9 out of 10 women who seek medical assistance abroad for pregnancy complications lose a child.

Finally, let's recall one more factor. At a gestational age of 30-34 weeks, ultrasound is performed at the place of observation of a pregnant woman. That is, during this period it is also better to be within the reach of the health facility, where pregnancy monitoring takes place.

WHICH INSURANCE TO CHOOSE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN

“The first thing tourists should understand is that pregnant women traveling abroad need special and separate insurance with options specifically for pregnant women. No basic insurance policy on the market that comes "by default" in a regular tour package covers any risks of pregnancy complications at 12-31 weeks. In this case, the tourist must ask a travel agent or take out additional insurance under a special program himself, ”says the executive director of the ERV insurance company.

Pregnant women traveling abroad need special and separate insurance with options specifically for pregnant women - this is not the same insurance that is already included in the tour package

The vast majority of Russian insurance companies do not include the risks of pregnancy complications up to 12 weeks into their basic programs. The only exception on the market is ERV insurance, which even in the “basic” version recognizes pregnancy complications for up to 12 weeks as an insured event, since there is a possibility that the insured might not have known about her pregnancy in the early stages.

Insurance products for pregnant women, starting from 12-13 weeks, are available in the range of all major players in the insurance market, the tourist can choose such insurance according to the set of options, the amount of insurance coverage or price.

As for insurances that cover risks up to 31 weeks of pregnancy (this is the maximum period), there are relatively few of them. The most “complete” insurance is again with ERV (Optima tariff): in addition to the period up to 31 weeks inclusive, the coverage here includes medical expenses not only for women, but also 10 thousand euros for nursing a child in a medical institution in case of premature birth (other companies cover mother's medical expenses only). This amount is enough for long-term care of the baby using special equipment in Europe or Turkey.

And of course, the insurance must necessarily include the option “cancellation of the trip” (in everyday life this is also called “non-departure insurance”). The condition of a pregnant woman changes, and it may happen that right before the trip she will have contraindications to the flight. It is important to remember that if a tourist flies with her husband, children, or other relatives, then they will all receive the full amount of the entire tour only if the “insurance against non-departure” is issued for all of them (and not just for the pregnant woman herself).

WHAT SHOULD A PREGNANT WOMAN NEED TO DO BEFORE HOLIDAY AND WHAT DOCUMENTS TO TAKE

Before the trip (3-7 days in advance) it is necessary to visit a therapist and attending gynecologist, get a consultation and, if necessary, undergo the prescribed tests and procedures.

You need to ask the doctor to issue a certificate for the airline about the duration of pregnancy and the absence of medical contraindications (without it, if there are external signs of pregnancy, some air carriers may not allow you to board the aircraft).

“In addition to insurance, travel documents and passports, you should also take an exchange card - especially if you are going to Russia. For the convenience and peace of mind of the vacationer, you can also take an extract from the attending physician with your medical history, appointments, the results of the last ultrasound, screening, etc., and translate them, if not into the language of the host country, then at least into English, ”advises the doctor gynecologist Natalya Badikova.

It would also be nice if the attending physician could be in touch with the tourist during the holidays. Modern telemedicine services allow this. For example, before traveling, you can check with your doctor if he consults remotely in a special application, or purchase a subscription to several telemedicine consultations from a trusted telemedicine operator. By the way, gynecologists also consult remotely.

WHAT SYMPTOMS OF A PREGNANT WOMEN IT IS BETTER TO POSTPONE A TRIP

“Drawing pains in the lower abdomen in the first trimester of pregnancy, pulling, cramping pains or tension (false and true contractions) – in the second and third trimester of pregnancy before a trip – an alarm call. These are unconditional reasons for immediate medical attention. Brownish spotting or, moreover, scarlet spotting at any stage of pregnancy, watery - in the second and third trimester - is also a reason to immediately consult a doctor, and not go to the airport, ”says Natalya Badikova.

Among other "bad" signs that indicate the need for prompt consultation of a tourist with a doctor is a sharp headache accompanied by tinnitus. This may be the first signs of preeclampsia or preeclampsia. Reasons to postpone a trip for a pregnant woman are vomiting, diarrhea, as well as exacerbation of concomitant diseases.

In order for a pregnant woman to painlessly cancel a trip for health reasons and not lose money, when buying a tour or separately (but maximum 5 days before departure), you need to take out travel insurance for all tour participants, which we have already talked about. As a rule, its cost is 5% of the total tour.

II. AIR TRAVELING IN PREGNANCY

PLANE, CAR, TRAIN – WHICH IS SAFE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN?

Contrary to popular belief, the plane is not the most "risky" mode of transport for pregnant women.

“Many people think that the safest way for pregnant women to travel is by car because you can stop wherever you want. But it's not. The way it shakes in a car, it doesn't shake anywhere, even on a train. Bumps, sudden braking, emergency situations on the road - all this has a very negative effect on the state of pregnancy. Plus, prolonged physical inactivity, motion sickness, the smell of gasoline - this can trigger a cascade of pathological reactions, ”says Dr. Badikova.

As for the train, if it is a comfortable express, and especially if the journey is not long (3-4 hours, "Sapsan"), then it is quite possible to consider it. You can also consider the new double-decker express trains "Moscow-Sochi". In other cases, especially if the train is old, with age-appropriate bathrooms, doctors recommend considering an airplane instead of a train.

IS IT POSSIBLE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN TO PASS THE SCANNER WHEN INSPECTION AT THE AIRPORT

Only X-ray devices are dangerous - therefore, you should find out what type of scanner is at the airport. If there is a corresponding icon on the device, then you should present a certificate of pregnancy to the airport employee and go through other screening procedures.

However, modern devices at airports are not dangerous for pregnant women. “Modern airport scanners use a low-frequency electromagnetic field. This is not ionizing radiation, there is no harm to the body of the pregnant woman and the baby from him, as well as from ultrasound, ”says Natalya Badikova.

FLIGHT IN PREGNANCY: HOW TO BE AND WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU

Air travel also has its own factors that can negatively affect the health of pregnant women. There are risks, but if the pregnant woman feels well, and the doctors have no objection to the vacation, you can fly.

Firstly, these are changes in blood pressure during takeoff and landing. This is usually fought by creating a state of rest (you need to take a special pillow with an adjustable boost, disposable ear plugs, an eye mask for the flight), and drinking plenty of water (plain water without gas). You can easily buy water at the airport after crossing the border. It is also a good idea to take a bar of dark chocolate with you on a flight (in case of pressure drops and just for a snack).

Secondly, this is hypodynamia and a long stay in a sitting position, so pregnant women should, if possible, choose destinations for recreation with a short flight (3-5 hours) during this period of their lives

Pregnant women should, if possible, choose holiday destinations during this period of their lives with a short flight (3-5 hours)

Why? “Long stay in a sitting position leads to congestion in the pelvis. This can disrupt blood flow in the pelvic organs, including the uterus, and cause changes in bowel function. Swollen intestinal loops can put pressure on the uterus, this can cause hypertonicity, which, in some cases, can cause abortion, ”explains Natalia Badikova. How to deal with this risk? It's simple: during the flight, you should try to walk around the cabin more often, get up, change the position of the body, do light gymnastics for the legs and arms.

A pregnant woman should not forget to take hygiene products (wet wipes, disposable pads, etc.), micellar water (no more than 100 ml to be allowed on the plane) with her on the flight (in hand luggage) - to moisturize the skin during the flight, a set of drugs (if the drugs are rare and prescription, it is better to take a prescription for them, sometimes with a notarized translation - in order to avoid difficulties at the border).

Pregnant women should also take care of compression stockings during the flight. These must be stockings or stockings (compression class must be determined by the attending physician). In the second and third trimester, a prenatal bandage should be worn for flying. During the flight, a woman should wear cotton underwear and a bra with wide straps.

During the flight, it is better for pregnant women to wear comfortable shoes - light, breathable moccasins or slippers.

III. PREGNANCY BEACH HOLIDAY

WHICH COUNTRY TO CHOOSE FOR A PREGNANT BEACH HOLIDAY

The list of such countries is determined by a combination of three main factors. Firstly, as we have already said, these should be destinations with a short flight (up to 5 hours as a maximum).

Secondly, it should be Russia or foreign non-exotic countries with a relatively temperate climate and a diet adapted to our cuisine. Countries with excessively hot climates and exotic cuisine should be avoided.

“Water and food that is not typical for our diet, for example, in the countries of South and Central America, Southeast Asia, can provoke toxicosis of pregnant women in the first trimester, even if you do not have it. It is also provoked by heat. The fact is that hypoglycemia (lack of glucose) can serve as an impetus for the development of toxicosis in pregnant women. And it occurs in hot climates due to increased evaporation of moisture from the skin, heavy drinking and, as a result, lack of appetite and long intervals in eating,” says Dr. Badikova.

Doctors advise pregnant women to choose for a beach vacation those countries where the average daily (attention - not daily, but average daily) temperature in the place and during the rest period does not exceed 30. 5 degrees Celsius.

Pregnant women should choose for a beach holiday those countries where the average daily (not daily, but average daily) temperature during the holidays does not exceed 30.5 degrees Celsius

Definitely, pregnant women should not choose countries where there is a risk of contracting giardia infections and, in general, infectious diseases (Japanese encephalitis, Dengue fever, Zika, etc.). It should be clearly excluded from visiting countries in which it is recommended to be vaccinated in advance (the list can be found on the website of Rospotrebnadzor). Doctors strongly recommend that pregnant women not be vaccinated against any diseases - this can be fatal for the child, since any vaccine passes through the placental barrier.

Thirdly, besides the climate and food, pregnant women should take into account one more factor when choosing a vacation destination: the availability and level of medicine in the country and in the hotel. Preference during pregnancy should be given to countries with developed medicine (at least in resorts), and when choosing a hotel, you should ask the travel agent if there is a doctor in the hotel (as a rule, he happens in high-level hotels).

The choice of a pregnant woman in the first and second trimester, therefore, comes down to the following list of destinations: Russia, worthy hotels in Turkey, Spain, Italy, Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Slovenia, Czech Republic. You can also go to the countries of the Persian Gulf (preferably to the developed emirates of the UAE - Dubai and Abu Dhabi, or to Qatar), and carefully choosing a hotel, preferring high-level ones.

The countries of Equatorial Africa, South-East Asia and the Americas should be excluded from your list during pregnancy due to the long flight, hot climate, unusual cuisine, the risk of infectious diseases, and in some cases the need for vaccinations.

HOW TO BATH WHEN PREGNANT

All is well, and the pregnant tourist is at a beach resort. Summer and the beach mean the sun, and here the doctors also have their advice. The sun, of course, brings positive to the pregnant woman (more endorphins are released), replenishes the vitamin D deficiency, which is typical for residents of northern countries.

Firstly, exposure to the sun and even swimming in the sea (due to the reflection of the sun's rays from the water surface) should be avoided by pregnant women from 12.00 to 16.00.

Secondly, and the rest of the time you need to be careful about protection from sunlight. “During pregnancy, a woman often has hyperpigmentation. Taking into account being in the sun during the holidays, there is a very high probability that age spots, freckles that appeared during pregnancy on exposed parts of the body will not disappear. Therefore, a pregnant woman needs to take sun protection with her on vacation, with a protection factor of at least 50 - more is better. It is desirable that such a product contains vitamin E. And immediately after exposure to the sun, you need to apply a special after-sun product, it will additionally moisturize the skin, ”says Natalya Badikova.

Pregnant women should take sun protection with a protection factor of at least 50, preferably more. It is desirable that the composition contains vitamin E

In particular, doctors consider such lines of protective equipment as Sanosan, Lierak, Uriage, from budget ones, for example, Garnier, to be well-established products. But everything is individual, and in choosing the brand and, most importantly, the composition of the product, it is better to follow the advice of the attending gynecologist.

Gynecologists strongly recommend tourists to take a closed swimsuit to the beach, excluding direct sunlight on the abdomen. “It will also be very good to take a cap with a large visor or a hat with a brim - to exclude sun exposure on the face, since the risks of age spots in pregnant women are very high,” advises Dr. Natalya Badikova.

WHERE IT IS SAFE TO BATH FOR A PREGNANT WOMAN - SEA OR POOL

Pregnant women can safely swim in the sea if it is warm and comfortable for the woman. The duration of stay in it is until the first moment when the pregnant woman feels “chillness”. Another tip - pregnant women should not stay in a wet bathing suit for a long time. At the first uncomfortable sensations, it is better to change clothes, and therefore take more than one set with you.

At the same time, experts say, the sea for pregnant women is definitely preferable to the pool.

“Excessively chlorinated water in some pools can lead to changes in the microflora of the vagina, and eventually to bacterial vaginosis or inflammation of this area,” says Natalya Badikova. After the pool, it is also better for a pregnant woman to make an external (only external!) Treatment of intimate places with Miramistin or similar means.

HOW TO EAT FOR A PREGNANT WOMAN ON HOLIDAY

It is better to leave the diet in the hotel the same, close to the set of products that a woman eats at home, doctors say. The advice is feasible, especially with the all-inclusive system - the buffet at the hotel allows you to choose almost any type of food.

However, there are restrictions: for example, any carbonated drinks should be excluded, it is better to drink black tea instead of green tea. And any exotic products for us, including southern fruits and vegetables, should be added to the diet gradually, in small portions, starting from 3-4 days of vacation.

“You shouldn't eat more than two unusual fruits a day (for example, mango). If we are talking about freshly squeezed juices, then this is a replacement for fruits (or fruits - or juices from them). Such juices should be drunk strictly after meals, not on an empty stomach, in order to avoid increased secretion of hydrochloric acid and heartburn, ”explains doctor Badikova.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND OUT YOUR PREGNANCY DURING VACATION

A tourist found out about her pregnancy while on vacation and she has to fly back. It happens. If there are no disturbing moments (bleeding, pain, etc.) - you do not need to contact a local doctor. What should be done during this period?

Doctors advise in this case to immediately change the diet to a more fractional one, exclude alcohol, coffee, smoking (if there is such a habit), include more meat, fish, chicken in the diet. At the same time, it is necessary to limit the consumption of bright orange and red vegetables and fruits - so as not to form an allergic syndrome.

With regard to the transfer to the airport and the flight itself, a pregnant woman in the early stages should not lift weights. Photos provided by pixabay.com

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Flights during pregnancy: answers, tips and tricks

Modern way of life, worldview and generally accepted canons do not make pregnant women stop before any difficulties. Often, no warnings and risks can affect their choice and actions, but when it comes to the health or life of the unborn baby, everything is serious. That is why issues related to the travel of women in position by air cause a lot of discussion and require detailed consideration.

Can you fly while pregnant?

This question worries many of the fair sex, who are in an interesting position, who are faced with a choice - to fly or not to fly? It is impossible to give a single answer that will suit every woman. In general, there are no restrictions regarding air travel during pregnancy. However, there are many factors that affect the final verdict. One of the first things to consider is the requirements of the airlines. If you have already booked an air ticket, then check the conditions for the flight of passengers in the position. If you are in the process of searching for air tickets, then check out the requirements of different aviation companies and choose the option that suits you best.

UIA, airBaltic - women from 28 to 35 weeks of pregnancy inclusive, when checking in for a flight, an appropriate certificate from a doctor must be attached to the ticket.

Lufthansa - Moms-to-be can book flights and travel with this airline until the end of the 36th week (or four weeks before the due date) without providing a medical certificate from a doctor. After 36 weeks - a woman should contact the Lufthansa medical center. In the case of multiple pregnancies, air travel after the 28th week is not allowed.

Alitalia - when checking in for a flight with a ticket, a pregnant woman must have a completed special medical form (MEDIF) signed and stamped by the attending physician after 36 weeks of pregnancy or in case of multiple pregnancy.

Air France - you don't need to get a doctor's consent to fly with Air France.

Turkish Airlines - Air travel is allowed for women for a period not exceeding 28 weeks with medical permission from a gynecologist.

Etihad Airways - From the 29th week until the end of the 36th week pregnant women traveling are required to present a medical certificate. From the 37th week, the flight is not allowed. If a woman is expecting more than one child, then the flight until the 32nd week is allowed with a medical certificate, after the 33rd - air travel is prohibited.

Air Moldova - after 28 and up to 32 weeks inclusive - a woman in the position when checking in for a flight must provide, along with the ticket, a medical certificate with a seal and a doctor's signature, which clearly reflects the permission to fly. After 32 and until the end of 35 weeks, as well as in cases of complications, a MEDIF form filled out by the attending physician and confirmed by the airline doctor is provided with a medical certificate. From the 36th - air travel is prohibited.

What is the safest pregnancy for flying?

Everyone knows that each period of pregnancy is special in its own way, so when planning a trip and purchasing air tickets, it is necessary to take into account not only the general condition, but the specific trimester of pregnancy.

first trimester: 1-13 weeks
It is best to refrain from traveling during this period. If there is an urgent need for a flight, then issue air tickets for a plane with a departure date corresponding to the 7th or 8th week of pregnancy, which are considered the safest for air travel in the first trimester.
second trimester: 14-27 weeks
This period is considered the most favorable for future mothers and babies to travel by air. However, some experts advise not to buy tickets for flights from 18 to 22 weeks, arguing that during this period there is a risk of late miscarriage. But if the pregnancy proceeds without any complications, the woman feels great and there are no risks to the fetus - feel free to issue an air ticket and go on a long-awaited vacation.
third trimester: 28-40 weeks
This period requires great care and attention when traveling. Most airlines will only allow you to board an aircraft if you have a certificate from your doctor, and some carriers may also require a document from the airline's medical center. Also, in most cases, female passengers will have to fill out and sign a document indicating that the airline is not responsible for possible adverse consequences.

In what situations is it better for a pregnant woman to refrain from flying?

In order to protect yourself and your unborn baby, you should consult your personal doctor before issuing air tickets. There are a number of contraindications to flying during pregnancy, even if the woman feels well, such as anemia, hypertension, severe toxicosis, etc.

How to make your flight comfortable?

If you have decided to fly, the doctor has given his consent, and you have already booked air tickets, then it's time to start preparing for the trip. There are a number of recommendations that will help expectant mothers feel comfortable during air travel and minimize the risks of possible complications:

book a business class ticket. In the business class, there are wider seats and an increased distance between them. If you still booked an economy class ticket, then choose a seat in the first row (enough legroom) or, in extreme cases, an aisle seat
to reduce the risk of vascular complications, wear compression stockings on the plane
fasten seat belts under the tummy
take an orthopedic neck and back pillow
recline the seat back to reduce back strain
periodically walk around the cabin of the liner to avoid swelling of the legs
drink plenty of fluids - about 500 ml per hour (avoid carbonated drinks and coffee)

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