This is a very common question I get from patients. For most patients, the answer is yes.
🤰🏻 In the absence of obstetric or medical complications, ACOG (the Ob/Gyn society) recommends that pregnant women observe the same general precautions for air travel as the general population and can fly safely up to 36 weeks of gestation. If you need to fly after that, make sure to get a doctor’s note (or they may not let you board).
Tips for flying safely:
✈️ Water, water, and more water: Staying hydrated is key (you may want that aisle seat for your frequent bathroom trips)
✈️ Stretch your legs: Pregnant women are at higher risk of having blood clots, so frequent walks and stretching your legs can help prevent one.
✈️ Avoid gassy foods and drinks preflight: Gases expand at altitude (due to lower atmospheric pressure), which can cause discomfort.
✈️ Check your airline policy: Many will allow you to fly up to 36 weeks, but each varies and it is better to find out before you are boarding.
✈️ Radiation exposure associated with air travel at high altitudes isn’t thought to be problematic for most who fly during pregnancy unless you are flight attendants and pilots.
✈️ It’s perfectly safe for you to walk through airport security scanners when you’re pregnant, no matter what type of scanner is used. That said, if you are worried, you can always ask for a manual pat down.
🏩 The main issue with flying is that if you need immediate medical care, it won’t be available until you land, even if they land the plane sooner for you. For most people, this is ok, but for those at high risk of complications, it may not be worth the risk.
🚫 Pregnant women at significant risk for preterm labor or with placental abnormalities should avoid air travel. If you are unsure if this is you, check with your doctor before flying.
❓ Any other questions about flying during pregnancy? Are any exciting baby moons coming up?