Flying When Pregnant

Flying is no longer a taboo during pregnancy ,many pregnant women travel without any problems. 

 Since the only extra weight you’re carrying is that in-utero bundle of joy , traveling can be a slightly easier undertaking.

 

Is It Safe To Fly During Pregnancy?

If you’re wondering if it’s safe to fly during pregnancy, the latest guidelines released by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists say that as long as you are suffering no pregnancy complications – like high blood pressure, placental abnormalities, or history of premature labor or miscarriage – and you are in good cardiovascular health, you can safely fly up to your 36th week of pregnancy.

I have flown as a Cabin attendant with a leading Airline in India , and I have seen many pregnant women travel everyday without much hassles. Most airlines allow pregnant women to fly until the 36th week of pregnancy on shorter flights (less than four hours), and usually request a medical clearance certificate, which you may be able to obtain from their respective websites.

That said, it is always wise to chat to your doctor to let them know of your plans, then if any concerns arise, they can suggest the best plan of action.

Every airline is different as to what they permit and disallow, so make sure you contact the airlines in advance or see if the information can be found on their website.

Tips for Flying when Pregnant:

• If possible, travel during your second trimester so you don’t have to worry about morning sickness or being as big as a house.
• Keep sipping water while you are waiting to board the flight. Keeping yourself hydrated is really important.
• Since your feet tend to swell up in flight, it would be wiser to choose to wear slip-on shoes that are roomy and comfy with thin socks.
• Make sure you empty your bladder before boarding in case of delay in take off, or if the seat belt sign stays on for a long time.
• Wear comfortable clothes.
• Many women face nausea due to low blood sugar ,to avoid this carry glucose sweets.
• DON’T Consume Fizzy Beverages on the Plane as they will make you even more bloated than you already are. (Not to mention, they are rather unhealthy.) If you are a little nauseous, a little bit of seltzer water probably won’t hurt, but avoid all soft drinks like Coke and Sprite.
• Even if your airline does not require a doctor’s letter, we strongly recommend getting one anyway! Should your plans be disrupted in any way, you may be required to change planes (and even airlines) – and you might find that the new airline enforces stricter regulations regarding flying during pregnancy than the original one.

• Book an aisle seat near the front of the aircraft so that you have no problems frequenting the washroom and getting on and off the plane. You won’t feel too much of the plane’s motion if your seat is towards the front of the plane.
• Keep your luggage light. No need to carry a heavy bag when all you’ll need is a water bottle, a trashy mag and some food.
• Its advised to request for vegetarian or low-fat meals as these are less nauseating and better for you
• Get the flight attendant to help you with your hand luggage, as of course you shouldn’t be lifting anything heavy.
• Always wear your seat belt – unexpected turbulence could injure you or your unborn baby if you’re not securely seated. Fasten the seat belt under your bump – you can ask for an extension seat belt if you need one.
• Avoid caffeinated drinks; stick to plenty of water, diluted fruit juices and milk. Bring your own healthy snacks and drink in case of long flights or delays
• Take plenty of walk and stretch breaks: since your joints and ligaments are more supple when you are pregnant, you are more prone to backaches. Regular movement will help deal with this.
• When you are sitting down, keep your circulation active by stretching and moving your arms and legs; elevate, flex and rotate your feet.
• If your shoes are easy to remove, slip them off; if the seat next to yours is unoccupied, put your feet up.
• Eat and drink small amounts frequently to keep your blood sugar levels stable.
• Don’t forget tissues which you may need for the unexpected runny nose or as toilet paper, ear plugs, eye mask
• Leave all your high heels behind.
• Put all cosmetics, toiletries etc in small bottles or get sachet sized samples if possible. Carry a light load.
• Avoid leg cramps by taking a short walk every two hours.
• Finally, don’t forget your travel documents, insurance and doctor’s letter. Bon Voyage!

Are The Screening Machines in the Airport Safe During Pregnancy?

The million dollar question if you’re flying when pregnant… and the one with a not-so-clear-cut answer! The official line is that security screening machines in airports are safe for everyone, pregnant women included.

Any pregnant woman or her unborn child would not be at risk while passing through an airport security portal . The metal detector is not known to pose any health risk to individuals. The devices used to scan your hand baggage are very well shielded so there is no risk from passing by those, either. They are designed this way because they do not have to see as much detail, are not designed for looking into very large objects, and are usually looking for things that really “stand out” on images (like metal).

Although , if you don’t want to walk through a metal detector, then you still have the right to opt out and opt for a  pat-down. But this would rather take a longer time , and if you are running late for your flight , I would rather not suggest it.

Individuals who do not wish to be screened by this technology should inform the TSO of their desire to opt out. 

One will be required to undergo alternative screening, to include a thorough pat-down. If passengers are told they are not allowed the option of a pat-down or other screening, they should ask to speak with a Supervisory Transportation Security Officer.

HOWEVER: be aware that even if you have a  right of refusing the x-ray and/or scanning and asking for a pat-down, there are many documented cases of  TSA agents ,refusing to accept the request for a pat-down, and telling the passenger things like “you either go through the machine or you don’t fly”.

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