Important Tips for Flying Pregnant

There are a number of common questions that pregnant women ask about flying. Allaying your fears can help you to relax during your trip and to understand how your flight will affect your pregnant body. In addition, there are some very important health measures that you should take while traveling.

Concerns about Traveling Pregnant

Many pregnant women ask the same questions before flying. Here, we strive to answer many of these common questions so that you can be comfortable with your decision to fly pregnant.

When is it alright to travel?

Most doctors will tell you that you should stay put until you are 12 weeks pregnant. Traveling while nauseous does not make for a fun trip. After 34-36 weeks you should also remain near home - as you don't want to deliver this baby on the plane or in a foreign country! The safest time to travel is between 18 and 24 weeks, as you have less risk of miscarrying or of having preterm labor during these times.

How much should I drink while flying and how much should I walk around?

Drink 1 liter of water for every two hours that you fly. Don't count on the flight attendant to bring you enough to drink. Keep yourself hydrated so that you don't risk going into preterm labor or feeling sick. Get up every hour or so and walk around for only 2-3 minutes to prevent blood clots.

Can the air pressure hurt the baby?

The cabin of the airplane is pressurized to a safe level and the air pressure will have no affect whatsoever on the baby.

Creating a Contact Sheet

If you do decide to fly pregnant, one very important piece of advice is to create a contact sheet. Keep one copy with you and give another to a traveling companion or spouse who will be with you. Include your name and medical insurance information, the name of your health care provider and their contact information, and your emergency contacts. In addition, include your prenatal and medical history, any allergies you have, your immunization history and a description of prior births. This can aid you a great deal should you need assistant while you are away.

Use this information to make an educated decision for yourself about flying pregnant. If you do decide to fly pregnant, make sure that your doctor knows where you will be, that you have your medical information and contact sheet with you, and that you are ready to relax and have a good time!