Each day, the FAA shepherds an incredible 2.9 million passengers through the air. What that figure fails to recognize is the sheer number of babies on board. Many pregnant women travel with an extra passenger in the womb, but is flying when pregnant safe?
The answer is somewhat complicated. Flying while pregnant may be safe for some women and unsafe for others. You must consider several factors, including your general health, due date, and destination.
We've created this guide to help educate moms-to-be about making decisions about travel during pregnancy. We'll include our best suggestions, plus helpful tips to make flying pregnant a more pleasant experience.
Read on before booking baby's first prenatal flight.
Can You Fly While Pregnant?
There is no law in place about flying during pregnancy. With that said, many airlines have policies that determine who can and cannot board an airplane. These policies vary broadly, but the majority will allow a pregnant woman to fly before her thirty-sixth week of pregnancy.
After week thirty-six, even short flights can be risky. Most women deliver after forty weeks of pregnancy. The stress and movement involved in air travel and navigating airports can be enough to trigger contractions or early labor (which would not be pleasant if you're sitting in economy class).
With that said, your doctor is the authority on whether or not it's safe for you to fly at any point in your pregnancy. Doctors may advise against flying for women experiencing certain pregnancy complications. You may also want to avoid destinations where you could catch Malaria or other diseases.
While your OB-GYN can't prevent you from boarding the plane, listening to their advice is the best way to keep you and your baby safe.
When Is the Best Time to Fly While Pregnant?
Doctors agree that the second trimester is the best time to travel. If you're planning a trip or babymoon, aim to book the tickets between the fourteenth and twenty-seventh weeks of pregnancy. This trimester is the period with the smallest likelihood of experiencing pregnancy side effects or complications.
While flying during the first trimester is generally safe, you might have difficulty enjoying your trip. The early weeks of pregnancy have a reputation for their own sort of turbulence. You'll be experiencing morning sickness, extreme fatigue, and strong negative responses to sensory stimuli throughout your vacation.
Likewise, the third trimester heralds a return to discomfort. You will have more trouble navigating and moving and may face restrictions when participating in certain activities.
Many women experience fatigue during the third trimester. You might find yourself unable to sleep without packing an extensive collection of special pregnancy pillows (which probably won't fit in your carry-on). For most, the risk of early labor is too high to be worth the risk.
Ultimately, the second trimester is the period when pregnant women have less pain and nausea and more energy. The influx of hormones also means your hair and skin will look incredible. It's the ideal time to take a trip, especially if you plan to take lots of photos.
Tips for Flying While Pregnant
Even if you fly during the most pain-free, energy-packed day of your second trimester, you might still have an uncomfortable experience. With a bit of forethought and a few precautions, you can ensure your flight is comfy, safe, and relaxing.
Here are our best tips for taking to the sky with a baby on board.
Consider Masking
During pregnancy, your doctor will advise you to avoid many medications. These include painkillers, fever reducers, and antibiotics. In other words, if you catch a cold or virus on the flight, you're in for an uncomfortable recovery.
Post-covid, masking on planes has become more commonplace and less stigmatized. In some cultures, masking on all forms of transportation is considered polite. While pregnant, consider wearing a mask to reduce your exposure to all germs and bacteria.
Come Hydrated
Airplanes are low-humidity environments. That's why even the shortest flights leave you feeling like a dried-up sponge. Pregnant bodies need moisture to help transport nutrients to the baby via the bloodstream.
We know the idea of waddling down the aisle for the bathroom isn't fun, but it's a healthier alternative than depriving your body of necessary moisture. Plus, occasional walks during your flight promote circulation.
Drink up before you get on the plane, and ask for water if you need it. You'll be thankful later.
Wear Your Best Loungewear
The longer you sit in one place, the more problems gravity can cause. Do all you can to maintain good circulation during your flight. Otherwise, you might experience swelling, which can be uncomfortable and may not go away as soon as you arrive.
You can counteract circulation problems by dressing for comfort. Choose cozy, loose-fitting loungewear for the plane. If you're concerned about looking cute in photos, you can always pack a change of clothes in your carry-on bag.
The Complete Guide to Flying When Pregnant
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