Is It Safe To Fly During Pregnancy? A Complete Guide For The Mothers

If you are pregnant, and it is your first time, often very common questions are out up: Is it safe to fly during pregnancy?. The reason for this question to arise is, just because you are expecting, you would not want to cancel your travel plans. Surely, the idea of planning to fly can bring up worries about the safety of both mother and the baby. A healthy pregnancy can handle air travel without any issues. Many experts are even in the support of travelling through flights if you are in the early time of your pregnancy, which is also called the first trimester.

Every pregnancy is different. Whether it is a good idea to travel via airplane or not, all of it depends upon the complications, and the overall health. Before booking your tickets reaching out to your doctor is important. Your flying experience during this time can become safe and smooth, if you have a proper knowledge about timings, comfort tips, and ideas for proper preparation.

Best Time For Mother to Plan to Fly 

Some Tips for a Comfortable and Safe Flight During Pregnancy

If planned properly, taking a flight when you are expecting can become safe and comfortable. It is extremely important to be very careful towards your health and body during the journey. For your safety, we have got you valuable tips for keeping you relaxed, calm and ready to enjoy the trip.

1. Choosing a comfortable Seat is Important

Pregnant women herself needs to be sure about her comfort. It is usually recommended to go with an aisle seat, as it gives access to take a short walks or way towards the restroom on the plane. Bulkiest seat is also recommended, if in need of extra legroom. A smoother fly is expected when you have a seat over the wing, which can be helpful if you are sensitive to turbulence.  

2. Body Movement and Stretching During the Flight

Sitting too long when you are pregnant can increase the risk of swelling or blood clots. You should be careful about your body movements and try taking a walk around the cabin every hour or so. It is recommended to not take international trips. To have a proper blood circulation while sitting, gently flex and stretch your ankles. Stay seated if the seatbelt sign is on, but to improve circulation, try making little foot and leg movements. 

3. Staying Hydrated and Managing Snacks

Dehydration is very common for women who are expecting and traveling by air, due to the low humidity in airplane cabins. It is recommended to consume lots of fluid and water before and during the flight. Try avoiding coffee, tea or any aerated drinks as they make you lose on to fluids faster. Pack yourself with healthy and light snacks, avoid taking gassy and outside food, which can make you feel bloated mid-air

Once your travel plans are approved by your doctor your good to go, the aim is to keep yourself fresh and comfortable during traveling.

Packing Essentials During Pregnancy

When you are well prepared, flying becomes more safe for a woman during pregnancy. Here is the quick check list to guide you to have a comfortable, organised, and a safe fly during pregnancy

Health Documents And Other Important Essentials 

• Copy of your parental record, health insurance and document stating clearance

• from the doctor is important.

• For support during flight, pack a small cushion or pillow.

• Keep a shawl for temperature changes and wear comfortable footwear.

• Pack yourself healthy snacks like fruits, or nuts.

• Carry toiletries to freshen up mid-air.

Medications and Prenatal Vitamins

• It is important to carry your prescriptions, parental vitamins, and supplements.

• If you have motion sickness, carry anti-nausea wristbands. 

• Wear compression socks to reduce swelling and improve the circulation.

Be Prepared for the Emergencies in the Air during Pregnancy

It is a smart move from your side to be ready for the unexpected emergencies and trouble during a flight. Before your plane takes-off, learn about the nearest emergency exists and carefully listen to the safety briefing given by the crew members. Having a basic knowledge about the plane’s emergency plan can be helpful if something happens.

If you feel unwell, or even slight discomfort like, bleeding, abdominal pain, dizziness, or anything that to be worried about. Let the cabin crew know about the situation straight away. Tell them about your being pregnant, so they act accordingly. They are trained to handle such medical situations in the mid-air and can connect with a doctor on the ground if needed. They can provide extra oxygen, first-aid, or other help to keep you safe until landing.