Posted on February 18, 2010.
Travel air guidelines for pregnant women Contrary to what many think, air travel is safe for a pregnant woman in good health or her baby. Of course, pregnant women should take special care and they need to check with their health care provider before they fly. The reason is the increased risk for certain diseases such as severe anemia, placental insufficiency or bleeding disorders.
If you are pregnant 14-28 weeks and you're flexible in your travel plans, it is the best time to fly. In midpregnancy, risk of miscarriage and premature labor are low and you are still active and in good shape. Before 12 weeks you probably suffer from morning sickness and the risk of miscarriage is increased. After 28 weeks, most airlines usually require a certificate from your doctor who can ensure that you are fit to travel by plane during pregnancy and to confirm your due date. After 36 weeks of pregnancy, usually you're not allowed to fly that the risk of delivering on board is increased or if you are at risk of preterm delivery.
In general, here are some important guidelines to consider if you are pregnant and you're going to fly:
a) review the policies of pregnancy with the airline
Each carrier has its own policies of pregnancy. If you book your flights with a travel agent, let them know you are pregnant and make sure you are allowed to fly. If you book your flights online, be sure to visit the carrier's policies regarding pregnancy. Political pregnancy can vary by airline, so it makes sense to give them a phone and tell them you're pregnant to ensure you get a special service and you make your flight more comfortable.
b) Make sure you choose a comfortable seat
During pregnancy, reserving the right seat can make you feel very differently. Firstly, you need to get up several times and move the plane. Therefore, make sure to book an aisle seat, especially if you travel long distance. Also, try to book a spacious seat. If you're booking online, you will see that many carriers provide information on the different legroom they offer in their seats. A travel agent can also give you information on how different media sizes above their legs. If you can not book ahead, try to get to the airport early and request a bulkhead seat, which is located between the business class and economy class. Keep in mind that, generally, the seats are spacious and a little more expensive. However, it is worth spending the extra money for the room a little more.
c) Make sure to promote blood flow during flight
Each half-hour, especially during long flights, make sure you stand and walk on the plane. This applies to all passengers, but especially pregnant women need to move your legs regularly. If you sit, make sure you extend your ankles frequently. In addition, you should wear compression stockings and avoiding restrictive clothing to minimize the risk of blood clots.
In addition, you should be closed during the flight to prevent the risk of trauma to your body in case of severe air turbulence. Also, make sure to drink plenty of fluids to keep your body hydrated, because low humidity in the cabin causes the air to dehydrate. If you are concerned about the air pressure in the cabin, in fact, it can reduce oxygen in the blood, but your body will adjust naturally. However, drinking plenty of liquid natural "will help your body adjust more quickly. Finally, avoid foods and soft drinks gas before the flight because the altitude increases the stomach expands and the gas trapped in the stomach may cause discomfort.