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It is commonly considered that the safest time to travel while
pregnant is during the second trimester. Most airlines and medics
seem to be of the opinion that air-travel shouldn´t cause
any complications in a normal pregnancy but of course it goes without
saying that you should seek the advice of your doctor or
gynaecologist before flying at any stage in your pregnancy and that
nothing can be guaranteed. (see airline
links )
Airlines don´t generally make any restrictions for travelling
in the first semester but especially if you are a frequent flyer
you would be advised to try to cut back on the number of flights
that you make. Think that a head cold can often feel worse when
flying, especially if you have catarrh or block sinuses, and that
while pregnant you can´t take medication for this so you might
feel more uncomfortable.
Although the second trimester is considered the safest as the first
few months of discomfort and possible danger are over and there
is not yet a real risk of premature labour, there are some things
that you should take into account. Your seat belt should be tucked
under your “bump” and you should make sure it fits safely.
Economy class syndrome is a potential problem, especially if you
have suffered from high blood pressure. You should as always consult
an expert.
Most airlines have a policy on pregnancy and travel (see individual
companies under seat
maps for details). Most policies are concerned only with pregnancies
in the third trimester but it would be wise to check when booking
tickets. A lot of airlines won´t let you travel if you are
over 36 weeks for fear of delivering on board. Airlines will take
you word for how far gone you are, but for the sake of your baby
it is obviously wise to be truthful.
There are some basic guidelines to bear in mind – if you need
to travel, try to do it in the second trimester. Avoid excessive
flying and travelling to countries where immunisation jabs are necessary.
Try to find a seat which you will be more comfortable in –
more leg room, the easy access of an aisle seat (see seat
maps) and drink lots of water (avoid caffeine and alcohol as
they increase the effects of dehydration and heartburn). Try to
get up and walk around as much as possible (at least every 90 minutes)
as prolonged sitting, especially in a cramped position, can cause
blood clots which are a particular risk for pregnant women. Try
not to eat foods which cause gas or flatulence as this is aggravated
by high altitudes, but wear comfortable, loose fitting clothes anyway.
Obviously any complications in the pregnancy or personal health
problems make the need to consult a specialist even more crucial
and make it less advisable to travel.
So – Check first with your doctor and then with the airline
for their particular policy (good idea to have it in writing in
case the attendants on the gate don´t know the rules!)
USEFULL INFORMATION AT
SEATMAESTRO:
| seat
pich | airline
links | |
