Flying While Pregnant – First Trimester

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Flying while pregnant

For most of us, flying is an unavoidable way to travel.  Whether it is for business of pleasure, most of us choose to fly.  Although not typically fun, flying can be even more challenging while pregnant.    However, traveling while pregnant does not need to be a wholly unpleasant experience and many challenges of flying during pregnancy can be easily overcome.

Airline regulations for pregnant women

If you choose to travel during pregnancy, you must be less than 36 weeks pregnant.  This is
the standard policy for domestic air travel (it is 32 weeks for international. According to the different airlines, this regulation is in place not only because of the health risks associated with being near term, but also because most airlines do not want to accept the liability or risk of a pregnant women going into labor during a flight.  This regulation was not made on an unfounded basis, many women have gone into premature labor from the stresses of near term air travel.

Other than premature labor, one of the larger concerns with flying while pregnant is risk of deep vein thrombosis.   This condition which is essentially a blood clot in the lower extremities; which may be triggered by sitting motionless for long periods of time.  Level of hydration and overall circulation may have an effect on the condition; both of which are challenges for pregnant mothers.   If you must fly while pregnant, be sure to drink plenty of fluids, stay hydrated, and get up and walk around often.  The physical activity will help with circulation and help to lower the risk of a blood clot.

Flying while pregnant may present challenges for your circulation which will also affect your level of comfort.  Sitting for prolonged periods may cause your ankles to swell and may also result in cramping.  Once again, periodically getting up and walking around in flight will help address these issues.  Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and comfortable clothes to make the flight more pleasant.   Also, be sure to choose an aisle seat for better mobility, the opportunity to stretch out while sitting, and for those inevitable bathroom breaks.

Handling stress while pregnant

The stress of travel, especially while pregnant, can affect your mood.  Pregnancy hormones can magnify your perception of the stress and easily make the experience overwhelming.   Organization is a great way minimize the stresses of travel and make it a much more manageable experience.  Before your flight, plan out your meals, what you are going drink as well as your entertainment.  Establish how your are going to check in, curb side is highly recommended, especially for pregnant women.   Plan where you are going to stow your carry-on, if you are in the second or third trimester, plan to put it overhead, and what needs to be immediately accessible during flight.  Finally, figure out what you will need if you get nauseous during flight and how you will handle it.  Getting these little details worked out well before you board the airplane will go a long way to helping you have a peaceful and relaxed flight.

Ask for help if  flying while pregnant

Flight crews can be amazingly helpful and understanding to women who are traveling while pregnant. When you board, if it is not obvious, let your flight attendant know that you are pregnant.  If you don’t have a chance to connect with your flight attendant while boarding, be sure to let them know when they bring the drink cart.  As above, staying hydrated is key, so feel free to ask for two or three glasses.

Traveling while pregnant does not need to be an unpleasant experience.  With a little planning, a bit of help, and a lot of patience, flying pregnant can be a breeze.

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