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Flying During the Third Trimester
Generally speaking there is no cause for
concern when it comes to flying during your
third trimester. However, it is important to
discuss your trip plans with your general
practitioner before you book your flight. If
you booked your flight early on and you find
out you will be in your third trimester
during this time it is recommended you try
to reschedule your flight times as soon as
possible. This is especially important if
your flight time corresponds with 35 weeks
and beyond in your pregnancy because many
airlines will refuse boarding at this time.
Plane travel can be stressful and worrying
and labor mid-flight would not be ideal.
Make sure you check with your chosen airline
for pregnancy admittance regulations, some
of them may even refuse boarding for
pregnant women under 35 weeks.
Your doctor will need to know as soon as
possible about your travel plans especially
if you have diabetes, high blood pressure,
placental abnormalities, spotting or are
carrying twins. These can all contribute to
an increased risk of harm when flying during
the third trimester and your doctor may have
to insist you cancel or postpone your plans.
It is generally advised that even though you
may be enjoying a healthy and normal
pregnancy you do not fly within your third
trimester just to be safe especially in your
final month. If you simply cannot reschedule
your journey you need to bring with you a
note from your doctor that states your due
date so there is no confusion or debate at
the airport. The last thing you need is to
arrive at the airport and have your
pregnancy duration challenged by suspicious
airport staff, especially if your bump is
very large. You will still have to check
that you can fly as some airlines will not
permit travel much earlier than others. Each
airline has different rules and regulations
regarding flight during pregnancy and this
could affect your travel plans considerably.
One thing to remember is to make sure you
will still be within their acceptable limits
on the return flight and ensure you check up
with the right airlines as they very often
can be different from the ones you travel
with first. Failure to check up on this
could result in you being unable to fly home
again after your holiday and your child will
be born abroad.
Your doctor will refer you to an appropriate
medical professional for the duration of
your holiday so make sure you get their
contact details and keep them with you at
all times should anything happen. You will
also need to take your prenatal chart with
you which will have all your pertinent
medical data on it.
Finally, make sure you reserve a plane seat
that is on the aisle and as close to the
middle of the plane as possible. This will
make sure your ride is as smooth and
comfortable as possible and will also make
it easier for you to get up mid flight to
walk around and visit the bathroom. |
