Why should you not fly when pregnant?

Risks of long-distance travel during pregnancy Long periods of not moving during car, bus, rail and air travel increases the risk of clots forming in the deep veins of the leg, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). These clots can circulate and lodge in parts of the body such as the lungs.



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Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) when pregnant and flying The risk of DVT increases when you're flying and with longer flights because you are sitting down for a long time. You're also at a higher risk of developing a DVT when you are pregnant and for up to six weeks after you give birth .

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Most airlines allow you to fly domestically until about 36 weeks of pregnancy. Your ob-gyn can provide proof of your due date if you need it. If you are planning an international flight, the cut-off for traveling may be earlier.

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Pregnant women can fly in most cases. Travel during first and second trimesters is generally safe. Third trimester travel may require medical clearance. Pregnant women should stay hydrated and move regularly.

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A change in air pressure or a decrease in humidity won't cause your baby any harm. There is also no evidence to suggest that flying causes miscarriages, early labour or waters to break . If you have any health issues or pregnancy complications, discuss it with your GP or midwife before you decide to fly.

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Will flying harm me or my baby? If your pregnancy is straightforward, flying is not harmful for you or your baby: If you have a straightforward pregnancy and are healthy, there is no evidence that the changes in air pressure and/or the decrease in humidity have a harmful effect on you or your baby.

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If you're pregnant and traveling before your 36th week, you can travel on a United flight without medical documentation. If you've reached your 36th week or after, you'll need an obstetrician's certificate — the original and two copies — stating that you're fit for air travel.

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Generally, air travel before 36 weeks of pregnancy is considered safe for people who aren't dealing with any pregnancy problems. Still, if you're pregnant, it's a good idea to talk with your health care provider before you fly.

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Generally, air travel before 36 weeks of pregnancy is considered safe for people who aren't dealing with any pregnancy problems. Still, if you're pregnant, it's a good idea to talk with your health care provider before you fly.

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Tips for flying when pregnant For the smoothest ride, request a seat in the middle of the plane over the wing. (This is the area where you're least likely to get airsick too.) For more legroom, try to get a seat in the bulkhead or pay for an upgrade.

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First, let's make it clear: air travel is likely to be safe for healthy pregnant women for the first 7 months. Although it is not advisable to travel by plane during the first trimester of pregnancy, note that you may suffer from the pains typical of the first few months of pregnancy under zero gravity.

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All screening equipment at the airport security checkpoint is safe for all travelers, including women who are pregnant. Watch this travel tips video if you have questions about the security screening process when traveling while pregnant.

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The airline also may require a letter from your health care provider that states how far along in your pregnancy you are and whether flying is advised. If your health care provider says it's okay for you to fly, and your plans are flexible, the best time to travel by air might be during the second trimester.

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“This fluid accumulation is what causes aches and swelling in the lower legs, and flying can also cause temporary edema due to changes in cabin pressure and air circulation,” she explains. This makes compression socks an invaluable item to keep on hand.

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Every airline can have its own standard for when pregnant women are no longer permitted to fly or need medical clearance before doing so. However, the general rule of thumb is up to 36 weeks pregnant. Passengers over 36 weeks pregnant could risk adverse effects if they fly too far into their pregnancy.

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Air travel is not recommended for babies younger than seven days of age. This is because cabin pressure in an airplane changes often, and newborn babies' systems may have trouble adjusting. Airlines have different policies about age of air travel, so it's best to check before you make plans.

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Most airlines allow you to fly domestically until about 36 weeks of pregnancy. Your ob-gyn can provide proof of your due date if you need it. If you are planning an international flight, the cut-off for traveling may be earlier. Check with your airline.

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