Most care providers recommend that air travel is safe for expectant mothers who do not have any pregnancy complications. If you are considering traveling by air during your pregnancy, find out ways you can make your flying safer, easier and more comfortable.
The following list comes from a September 21, 2009 ACOG news release and includes several additional tips for easier flying.
Check with Your Airline Before You Book Your Ticket
In most cases, air travel is permitted by major airlines up to 36 weeks of pregnancy, but check with the airline prior to flying just to be sure so that you are not faced with changing your travel plans at the last minute.
Wearing Comfortable, Loose-Fitting Clothing When Flying
Tight clothing is uncomfortable even when you are not pregnant. Try to wear your most comfortable maternity clothing when you are traveling by air. Pregnant women tend to be warmer than non-pregnant women so be sure to dress in layers when you are flying so that you can add or take away layers depending on the temperature inside the plane or in the airport.
Eat Healthy Snacks On the Plane
Snacks provided in flight are not always the most nutritious and tend to consist of empty calories. With the recommendation for pregnant mothers to reduce or avoid peanuts during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is best to skip the free packets of peanuts that are handed out on the plane.
It may be necessary for you to bring along your own healthy snacks when you are traveling by air. Why not carry some healthy trail mix (peanut-free) that includes things like almonds or cashews, raisins or other dried fruits and granola? You could also bring some raw vegetables, an apple or a hard-boiled egg for quick energy.
Drink Plenty of Non-Carbonated, Non-Caffeinated Beverages When Traveling by Air
Flying can cause dehydration if you are not drinking beverages during your flight and waiting at the airport. Not getting enough fluid can also cause headaches and even pre-term labor contractions.
It might be tempting to grab a soda for an extra caffeine boost during your flight. Keep in mind that caffeine during pregnancy is something that should be limited. Carbonation in your beverages might also make heartburn and digestive upsets worse. Juices can be very high in sugar, so you might try diluting them with some ice water. Depending on your beverage choices when you are traveling, you may need to stick to water.
Move Around Frequently for Comfort When it is Safe
One of the risks of sitting for long periods of time while traveling by air is blood clots. Make sure when the "fasten seat belt sign" is turned off that you get up and stretch as often as possible. If there is a lot of turbulence on your flight, be sure you move around and stretch in your seat as much as you are able.
Choose an Aisle Seat on the Plane for Access to Rest Room
Although it might be a no-brainer, choosing an aisle seat is going to be a necessity for an expectant woman. Frequent stretch and rest room breaks are part of the package when you are pregnant and traveling by air. Sitting in the aisle seat will help to avoid disturbing those seated around you every time you need to get up.
Do you have any other tips to make flying easier during pregnancy? Leave a comment here.
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