What are the dangers of flying for pregnant women? What are the dangers of air travel for pregnant women? Who is prohibited from flying on an airplane?

We all often fly on airplanes - on a business trip, to visit, on vacation. This event is common for most people and, as a rule, does not evoke any emotions. Some people get stuffy ears during takeoff and landing, others feel a little nauseous. This condition passes quickly, leaving no consequences.

The possibility of flying is different for pregnant women. Especially if the birth of a child is a long-awaited event, and the expectant mother is anxious about her well-being, afraid of losing her baby. When pregnancy has only recently begun, and the woman has not had time to consult a gynecologist, the flight raises concerns. For such mothers, we will answer whether it is possible to fly in the early stages of pregnancy.

Flying during pregnancy

If a woman feels well during pregnancy, pregnancy proceeds without complications, and you can fly on airplanes. There are no irreparable consequences.

But there are contraindications for flying in this condition. Therefore, it is necessary to go to the doctor before the flight and undergo an examination. Most often, it will be enough to do an ultrasound and clinical tests.

You cannot fly in the following cases:

The pregnant woman began to have slight bloody or bloody discharge, and her lower abdomen hurts, which indicates a threat of miscarriage.
Suspicion of placental abruption.
Disorders of the functioning of internal organs associated with pregnancy (preeclampsia and preeclampsia). Frequent symptoms are the occurrence of edema, increased blood pressure, and the presence of protein in the urine.
Bleeding. At the very beginning, you need to call an ambulance.
Severe anemia, in which there is an acute lack of hemoglobin in the blood.

In the absence of these symptoms during pregnancy, a woman can fly on airplanes with the same restrictions as women in the normal state. A flying passenger of any gender should not suffer from exacerbation of chronic diseases. Also, passengers at altitude increase the risk of thromboembolism; drying of the mucous membranes of the throat and nose can occur. Due to the large number of people on board, there is a danger of contracting an infectious disease transmitted by coughing, sneezing, or simply by talking. This danger also threatens when traveling on the subway, when visiting shops, cinemas, and so on.

If a woman during pregnancy takes measures to avoid contracting an infection and adheres to the flight rules, she can fly on an airplane without fear.

If the flight is for the purpose of relaxing at sea, in the fresh air, this pastime will benefit both mother and child.

The World Health Organization has issued clear recommendations on contraindications to air travel for women during pregnancy. Experts from this organization do not advise flying in the following cases:

The gestation period is more than 36 weeks, when the mother is expecting one baby.
The pregnancy period is more than 32 weeks, when a woman should give birth to twins.
Flights are prohibited in the 1st week after the birth of the child.
Pregnancy comes with complications. Toxicosis is also a complication.

Doctors prohibit flying with placenta previa - when the placenta partially or completely covers the uterine os. The symptom may be bleeding without accompanying pain. You are not allowed to fly if you have preeclampsia or severe anemia. With such complications, you cannot fly in any life situation. The risk for the woman and the fetus is too great.

There are situations when, in case of urgent need, flights are allowed. But a woman should be careful as there is some risk of miscarriage.

There is a threat of premature birth or miscarriage.
Placental abruption is possible.
Moderate anemia was diagnosed.
Non-standard structure of the placenta, its low location in the mother’s body.
The position of the fetus from the 28th to the 40th week differs from normal.
Second half of pregnancy when expecting twins.
Vaginal discharge with blood at any stage.
Carrying out a biopsy a week - 10 days before the flight and other methods of invasive examination.
Severe toxicosis with uncontrollable vomiting.
Swelling, increased blood pressure.
Thrombophlebitis before pregnancy.
Suspicion of diabetes mellitus.
Constant increase in blood pressure.
Insufficiency of the cervix, leading to spontaneous miscarriages.
Infectious diseases in pregnant women.
Chronic diseases in the acute stage.
Pregnancy achieved through artificial insemination.
Previously operated uterus.

If you have the above conditions, you can fly only if absolutely necessary.

Risks of air travel

However, it is not only a serious condition that prohibits flights for women during pregnancy. Doctors are also worried about their patient because this flight can affect not only the well-being of the mother, but also the baby itself. Let's consider what causes a negative attitude among specialists towards this method of transportation and what can be expected.

Pressure drops

Pregnant women are acutely aware of changes in environmental pressure. This is understandable, since changes in pressure can have a tonic effect on the uterus and cause premature birth.

The uterus is especially sensitive during takeoff and landing. And during these periods, the mother develops an unaccountable instinctive fear, because she understands that in the event of a birth on an airplane, there will be no obstetrician or pediatric intensive care specialists nearby, and it is difficult to predict how an important event for her will end.

Regarding turbulence zones, it can be noted that shaking and swaying of an airplane can cause discomfort to both an ordinary passenger and a pregnant woman. This may cause nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. But they will not bring significant harm to a pregnant woman and her fetus.

You can calculate the likelihood of premature birth using an ultrasound examination. This is affected by the length of the cervix. The doctor will tell the pregnant woman whether she should take the risk.

In addition, it is not for nothing that some airlines have introduced restrictions on the transportation of women in the later stages of pregnancy and on those women who have suffered premature birth before. Apparently there have already been unpleasant incidents.

Lack of oxygen

Women with a baby in the womb are afraid that when they fly to high altitudes, the plane will have less oxygen than their fetus needs. Swiss scientists conducted research and found that mild hypoxia (lack of oxygen in the mother’s blood) for a short time does not have a negative effect on the development of the embryo. Moms don't have to worry. But this only applies to healthy pregnant women. If a pregnant woman suffers from anemia, it is extremely important for her to constantly inhale a sufficient amount of oxygen.

Probability of thrombosis and thromboembolism

The risk of developing thrombosis (blood clots in the deep veins) increases significantly even during a normal flight lasting more than 4 hours. In pregnant women it increases 5 times. And if you look at the statistics, thromboembolism even on earth occurs more often in women expecting a child than in people in normal conditions.

To avoid this complication, you must follow several rules during flight:

Do leg exercises - strain and relax the muscles of your legs alternately for 10 minutes per hour.
Drink water or juice more often, give up coffee.
Every hour, walk around the salon for 10 minutes.
Put on anti-varicose compression stockings in advance, designed to prevent the disease.

If the expectant mother has prerequisites for the disease - excess weight (close to 100 kg), carrying twins, she must undergo medical training before the flight. The doctor will prescribe you the necessary drug intramuscularly, which is administered only 1 time. You can start taking 75 mg Aspirin on your own a few days before the flight, but this is less effective protection.

Irradiation

On earth at sea level, everyone is exposed to cosmic radiation, but people are protected from it by a thick layer of atmosphere. However, each person receives as many x-rays per year as if examined with 2 x-rays.

At the altitude of the aircraft, the layer of atmosphere is much smaller, and there is less protection from radiation. But research by scientists says that during a 7-hour flight at a normal airplane altitude, passengers receive 2.5 times less x-rays than in a clinic during a chest examination. This dose of x-ray does not affect the development of the fetus of the expectant mother. Although pilots who are constantly in the air receive as many X-rays as if they were working in an area of increased radiation.

The metal detector frame at the airport, which protects passengers from terrorist attacks, operates using a very weak magnetic field, which has no effect on health.

Dry air on an airplane

Air that is too dry during a flight can cause dehydration. This is very easy to avoid. Every hour you need to drink half a liter of still water or juice. Tea and coffee will not help with dehydration.

The lack of moisture in the air also dries out the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. Swelling of the mucous membrane may appear, making breathing difficult. To combat this phenomenon, you need to moisten the mucous membrane with a solution of sea salt in water (Aqua-Maris), instill vasoconstrictor drops into your nose, and wipe your face with a damp cloth. Antihistamines will help against edema, which must be prescribed by a doctor in advance (Suprastin and others).

Infectious danger

Since people who suffer from acute respiratory infections, acute respiratory viral infections and other diseases transmitted by droplets often fly on an airplane, they exhale their bacteria and viruses into the aircraft cabin. Bacteria also accumulate in cabin air conditioners, the filters of which are not changed before every flight. Therefore, pregnant women with weakened immune systems are advised to take protective measures against infection - wear a medical mask over their nose and mouth.

How to behave in flight?

Preparing for a flight for a pregnant woman should begin on the ground with a visit to the doctor. If the doctor has approved the flight, you must:

Dress in comfortable, non-constricting clothes and shoes without heels that can be put on and taken off without using your hands, without bending over.
Wear anti-varicose socks or stockings on your feet.
Cover your nose and mouth with a medical bandage to prevent infections.
Take your time when entering the salon, be the last one to enter.
Do not sit cross-legged.
Do exercises for the muscles of the legs.
Drink half a liter of water or juice every hour.
After every 50 minutes, walk around the salon for 10 minutes.
When the pilot asks you to fasten your seat belt, fasten it under your stomach.
If you have the financial means, fly business class.
Take small pillows on the flight that you can place under your back to create the most comfortable position for yourself.
Take drops and nasal spray (Aqua Maris, Glazolin, etc.) on the flight.
Buy and take wet wipes on the flight.
Ask your doctor in advance to prescribe a motion sickness remedy for pregnant women and take it with you.
To prevent blocked ears during takeoff and landing, buy and take lollipops with you.
Do not drink coffee or tea.
Don’t forget your exchange card, which shows your gestational age, blood type, and Rh factor. Place it next to you on the plane along with the phone number of relatives to contact in case of pregnancy complications.

By taking these precautions, you can fly on vacation. Breathing iodized air and swimming in the warm sea is beneficial for mother and baby.

When is the best time to fly?

Flying in the early stages of pregnancy is fraught with trouble. It is recommended to travel from the 4th to the 6th month of pregnancy. At this time, miscarriage is least likely.

There is also advice from doctors when it is not necessary to fly on an airplane - this is from 3 to 7 weeks, from 9 to 12, from 18 to 22. It is also not worth planning a flight on those days when a woman would have her period during the period of non-pregnancy. Such periods are associated with the development of the baby’s internal organs and life support systems - circulatory, nervous, bone, endocrine. If the flight affects the formation of organs that will not develop properly, a miscarriage may occur.

Doctors consider flying in the last three months of pregnancy possible. But some airlines, whose employees do not want to deliver babies in the air, often require women more than 28 weeks pregnant to provide a certificate from a gynecologist stating that she is not at risk of premature birth.

To reassure women, it is still worth clarifying that flight attendants are taught to deliver babies, although they are not too willing to do this.

It is believed that during pregnancy, girls need to take maximum care, avoid overwork and stress, ensure complete comfort, etc. Modern mothers are not always able to follow such recommendations. Very often a woman is forced to work for up to 6-7 months, and the work sometimes involves air travel. But is it possible for pregnant women in the second trimester to fly on an airplane? Or such flights could harm the patient. Should a pregnant woman refuse to fly or do such trips have no effect on the patient’s well-being?

Before traveling long distances, you should consult your doctor

Opinions regarding air travel for pregnant women are significantly divided. Some patients believe that flying is unacceptable and can negatively affect the patient’s condition, while others adhere to the theory that such flights during pregnancy do not pose a threat if there are no contraindications to them. There is no need to worry if the pregnancy develops with excellent health, absence of complications and exacerbations of chronic pathologies. As for the second trimester, this gestational stage is considered the most favorable for air travel.

Experts highlight some features of air travel for different periods of gestation, as well as a whole range of medical complications that are an obstacle to travel by such transport, and at any stage of gestational development. In order not to harm the child and maintain the pregnancy, you need to approach the upcoming trip with maximum responsibility, familiarize yourself in advance with the rules and requirements that are usually put forward by various airlines for passengers in an interesting situation.

Flights at different times

Each period has its own restrictions on flights.

Obstetricians strongly recommend avoiding flying during early pregnancy. During this period of gestation, mothers usually feel unwell, and during a flight, such symptoms can only intensify. In addition, in the first trimester of pregnancy there are often complications such as uterine hypertonicity, which is dangerous for miscarriage. Flight can provoke hypertension due to pressure changes.
Unlike the beginning of pregnancy, the 2nd trimester is, according to most obstetricians and gynecologists, the calmest time for such trips. During this period, the patients are already getting used to the interesting position, they no longer suffer from toxicosis, and the tummy has not yet grown so much as to bring certain inconvenience to the mother. Therefore, 3-4 hour flights will be tolerated by a woman much better than during other periods of gestation.
The last trimester of pregnancy is considered an undesirable time for air travel. Patients at this time usually suffer from swelling and back pain, hypertension and fatigue, and the risk of developing preeclampsia during these weeks is quite high. Therefore, obstetricians and gynecologists strongly recommend that mothers avoid traveling by air during these periods. Shaking and noise, stuffy air and stress during a trip can only add discomfort and malaise to the overall clinical picture, which is by no means favorable. In addition, most airlines refuse to allow pregnant women to fly after 30 weeks.

Flight rules

Much depends on the patient’s well-being

Many airlines, in order to relieve themselves of unnecessary responsibility, impose restrictions on flights for pregnant women. Therefore, before purchasing a ticket, you need to go to the airline’s website and study the requirements that the carrier imposes on its pregnant passengers. For example, mothers of any age can fly on Aeroflot planes, except those who are due to give birth within 4 weeks from the date of the flight. The girl will have to provide, along with her ticket and passport, an extract from the gynecologist, which will indicate the absence of any contraindications for flying during pregnancy. The validity period of such a certificate is 7 days.

Transaero Airlines categorically does not allow girls on board the aircraft who are due to give birth within a month or have a risk of premature birth, i.e. pregnant women who are 36 weeks or more pregnant. When boarding, the passenger must provide an exchange card with a note that air travel is not contraindicated, as well as a certificate indicating the preliminary date of birth. In addition, the patient will have to sign an agreement that she assumes sole responsibility for the possible consequences of the flight.

Another well-known airline, Air France, is considered the most loyal to passengers in an interesting position. Flying during pregnancy on its aircraft does not require any documentary support such as certificates or exchange cards. But when deciding on a flight, a woman takes full responsibility upon herself. Therefore, there is no need to take risks; it is better to first discuss the possibility of flying with a gynecologist.

Until when are air travel allowed?

It is already clear whether pregnant women can fly by plane, but until exactly when can this be done without fear for the development of the fetus and the safety of the pregnancy? Typically, air carriers restrict flights for girls from 34 weeks of gestation. For each patient, the time frame until which it is safe to fly may differ. The safest periods are considered to be 14-28 weeks, provided the condition of the mother and fetus is stable.

The main adviser regarding the possibility of air travel for a woman should be the obstetrician-gynecologist leading her pregnancy. Only a specialist will be able to correctly assess the patient’s condition and the likely threats associated with complications during flights, etc. Usually doctors agree with airlines and do not allow flying after the 36th gestational week, as well as with the risk of premature delivery or miscarriage, with eclampsia and severe gestosis, complex anemia .

How to prepare for a flight

So, when pregnant, flying by plane is quite acceptable, but for a safe flight, it is recommended to properly prepare for the trip.

Choose the most comfortable clothes. A loose T-shirt and trousers that do not put pressure on the stomach and do not restrict movement will be the most ideal option for a pregnant woman. It is better to choose clothes made exclusively from natural fabrics, soft and breathable, such as cotton.
Often, if a girl is afraid to fly, she begins to get too nervous and worried, and panics. Such experiences are extremely undesirable and unhealthy for pregnant women; they can provoke unpleasant complications. To relieve attacks of fear, you can use sedatives like valerian. But first you need to consult with a specialist. Although you should not abuse such drugs.
You can purchase a soft pillow specifically for flights. Since back pain is a concern, an orthopedic pillow will help relieve the stress on the spine, which will also alleviate the discomfort associated with prolonged sitting.

Such simple recommendations for preparing for flights will help make your upcoming trip as comfortable as possible. To avoid severe swelling of the limbs, mommy is recommended to get a massage and walk around the salon more often.

Nausea during a flight: what to do?

It is advisable to take some homemade food with you

Sometimes it happens that there are no contraindications for flying, the pregnant woman feels great, but at a certain moment during the flight she suddenly feels faint, which causes the mother a lot of discomfort. To avoid this or somehow reduce the onset of nausea, patients are advised to refuse heavy meals, and the day before the flight it is better to switch to a light diet.

If possible, it is better to take a container of light home-cooked food with you on the road, and during the flight ask the flight attendant to warm up your food in the microwave. If this is not provided, then order something dietary. If signs of discomfort occur, switch to deep breathing through your mouth and focus on one point.

A cup of coffee is a good way to get rid of lightheadedness, but you need to limit yourself to just one serving. Try to tune in to good thoughts and calm down. Flip through a magazine or read a book, listen to soothing music, or even take a nap. But only without sleeping pills, such drugs can negatively affect your well-being.

Dangerous consequences of flying

Pregnancy is a special condition that requires mothers to pay close attention to their well-being and sensations. Doctors usually recommend refraining from flying while pregnant, but if there is an urgent need to fly, it is better to carefully prepare for it and anticipate the occurrence of possible complications that can seriously spoil the course of pregnancy and even lead to adverse consequences. What is the first thing you should be wary of?

Hypoxia

During the flight, there is a noticeable decrease in oxygen in the cabin of the ship. For healthy people, these changes remain unnoticeable, however, during pregnancy, this phenomenon causes a lot of anxiety. The picture as a whole is not as scary as the girls fear. If the patient is relatively healthy, then there will be no deviations in the health status of either the mother or the baby. It’s just that no changes occur in the gas composition of the bloodstream during a short flight.

The baby can feel a lack of oxygen only if the flight lasts more than 4-5 hours, and the patient herself is not completely healthy. If a girl’s pregnancy proceeds with the threat of miscarriage or premature delivery, then she must completely refuse any flights.

Pressure surges

Ladies in position are particularly sensitive to even the slightest pressure changes. They are especially felt during landing and takeoff of the aircraft.

Such sudden changes may well provoke the premature onset of labor. Therefore, flying on an airplane in the third trimester is very risky, because it is unknown how the flight will end.
Premature delivery is not as scary as, for example, the fact that when it occurs, the patient will not have a team of obstetric specialists who can help.
If a flight is necessary, it is recommended to take insurance, undergo an ultrasound examination and evaluate the dilatation of the cervix to eliminate the possibility of premature birth of the baby.

If you receive unsatisfactory results, it is still better to postpone air travel until the baby arrives.

Radiation

Many are inclined to believe that radiation on airplanes is an invented myth. In reality, aircraft move in layers of the atmosphere where the protective layers are much thinner, which is why aircraft are considered objects with an increased radioactive hazard.

If a woman has flown by plane less than 3 times while pregnant, then there is nothing to worry about; such rare flights cannot cause any harm to the baby, because the radiation does not reach even minimal values. Research by scientists shows that during a 7-hour flight, the human body is irradiated two to three times less than during fluorography.

Premature delivery

On the road you need to be prepared for anything

Experts have not established an exact relationship between premature birth and air flights, however, pressure surges and anemia, hypoxia and excitement in combination can provoke detachment of placental tissue or rupture of amniotic fluid, which most often ends in childbirth.

Such situations are considered emergencies, therefore it is better for mothers who are at risk for premature birth (for example, with multiple gestations, in late gestation, etc.) to postpone air travel.

Blood stagnation

The risk of thrombosis is considered the most serious danger that hangs over pregnant women during air travel. Before the flight, the patient should seriously consider this issue. According to statistics, women during pregnancy are 5 times more likely to encounter vein pathologies than non-pregnant women of the same age. In fact, gestation itself increases the risk of thrombosis, and if a woman sits in one position for a long time, the woman only complicates the situation.

If a flight is necessary, then mothers are recommended to choose a seat in the first class cabin so that the trip is comfortable, with a minimal likelihood of developing thromboembolic complications. During the flight, the patient is recommended to wear compression stockings and drink drinks more often, preferably plain water. But it is better for patients to avoid caffeine and drinks containing it. To prevent numbness in the limbs and thrombosis, once an hour you need to get up and walk around the salon, stretching your legs.

Tips for a successful flight

An airplane is not the best form of transport during pregnancy. But if there is still a special need for a flight, then it is better to approach such a trip thoroughly so that it is as comfortable as possible.

The main and most important rule for any patient planning to fly by plane should be the mandatory presence of an exchange card, even if this condition is not included in the air carrier’s rules.
Choose the most comfortable seats so as not to sit next to the window, because it is extremely important for a pregnant woman to periodically get up and walk between the rows.
Some mothers do not fasten their seat belt, which is completely wrong. When an airplane enters a turbulent zone, the airplane begins to sway and shakes violently. Therefore, you still need to wear a seat belt, but it’s better to pass the belt under your stomach.
During the flight, mothers are advised to remove their shoes to make their feet as comfortable as possible.
For comfortable seating, take pillows with you on the flight to place them under your back and lower back.

If possible, try to relax and take a nap during the flight, so the journey will pass unnoticed and quickly enough.

When air travel is contraindicated

Obstetrics experts identify several specific conditions in which pregnant women are strictly prohibited from flying. Such pathological conditions include hypertonicity of the uterine muscles and severe cases of iron deficiency anemia, pathologies of the cardiac, pulmonary and vascular systems. It is also strongly recommended to avoid flying in case of multiple pregnancy, thrombophlebitis and frequent increases in blood pressure. Pregnancy due to artificial insemination, as well as inflammatory ENT pathologies are also contraindications for traveling by air.

At any gestational stage, before making a decision on air travel, the patient must first discuss the possibility of such a trip with an obstetrician-gynecologist, even if the proposed trip occurs during the safest period - the second trimester of pregnancy.

Due to its high speed and undeniable comfort, air travel is one of the most popular ways to travel long distances. Although many passengers feel fear or anxiety when boarding a plane, airplanes are considered the safest means of transport compared to trains, buses or cars. But for a pregnant woman, everything is completely different, especially in the early stages, when her health and the life of her baby are especially fragile.

Is it dangerous to fly during the first trimester?

Gynecologists do not recommend that pregnant women travel by plane (or, indeed, by any other form of transport) in the early stages. This is primarily due to the fact that during this period there is a particularly high risk of spontaneous termination of pregnancy (miscarriage), detachment of the ovum or an incompletely formed placenta. In addition, more than half of all expectant mothers suffer from toxicosis of varying severity in the first months of pregnancy. An air flight, especially one lasting more than 2 hours, can increase unpleasant symptoms (nausea, vomiting, dizziness, weakness), which will negatively affect the health of the expectant mother.

Until the 14th week, the pregnant woman’s body is weakened by the changes occurring in it, and the fetus is actively developing internal organs and systems, so doctors advise spending this time in the most comfortable environment, avoiding additional stress and anxiety. It is better to postpone any trips to the second trimester, when the mother’s body has already fully adapted to its new function, and the risk will be minimal.

What are the dangers of traveling by plane?

During air travel, even ordinary people often experience unpleasant sensations, but for a pregnant woman they can all intensify several times, because she is much more susceptible to external influences. What factors can influence the condition of the expectant mother and her baby on board an airplane?

- pressure drops

During takeoff and landing, many passengers experience stuffy ears. This occurs due to a sharp change in external pressure, which at altitude differs significantly from the usual norm. Internal (blood) pressure directly depends on external pressure. In the later stages, such changes significantly increase the risk of premature rupture of amniotic fluid and the onset of labor; in the early stages, a miscarriage may occur or the tone of the uterus may increase. However, there are currently no statistical data confirming the dependence of spontaneous abortions (premature births) on air travel.

- lack of oxygen

At altitude in the aircraft cabin, the concentration of oxygen in the air actually decreases, this is especially noticeable in the tail of the aircraft. But scientists have proven that such minor differences cannot affect the condition of the fetus. However, this applies exclusively to healthy women whose pregnancy proceeds without complications. If the expectant mother suffers from anemia (low levels of hemoglobin in the blood) or diseases of the respiratory system, flights are strictly contraindicated for her, since even a slight decrease in oxygen concentration can lead to fetal hypoxia.

- risk of thrombosis and thromboembolism

Even without taking into account the additional load during pregnancy, the risk of deep vein thrombosis increases 5 times, therefore, in order for the flight to be without complications, it is worth minimizing the likelihood of such a complication. Here are some tips on how to do this:

throughout the flight, wear compression stockings or tights, which reduce the load on the veins;
drink enough fluids, preferring water and juices;
Do a short warm-up every hour (walk around the salon, strain and relax your leg muscles).

If a predisposition to the development of thromboembolism is known in advance, before the flight you should consult with a doctor monitoring the pregnancy. In some cases, drug therapy may be prescribed, but it is contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy.

-irradiation

The higher a person rises above the surface of the earth, the more he is affected by solar radiation. This happens because the atmospheric layer filtering it at this level is much thinner. However, even during a long flight at such an altitude, the dose of radiation received will be several times lower than with a conventional x-ray examination, and will not affect the further development of the child.

- dry air on the plane

Air-conditioned air can cause significant discomfort during a flight, drying out the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and even causing dehydration on long flights. In order for the flight to be as comfortable as possible, you need to drink at least half a liter of water every hour, wash your face or wipe your face with a damp cloth as needed, and you can use special sprays (for example, Aquamaris) to moisturize the nasal cavity.

- increased infectious risk

To be fair, it is worth noting that the risk of contracting any disease exists in any crowded place (subway, supermarket, even theatre); during air travel it is aggravated by the fact that passengers are forced to stay in a confined space for a long time and open the window to ventilate, when this is not possible. During the flight, the air inside the cabin is purified by special systems, but it is impossible to completely get rid of the bacterial and viral threat in this way. For a pregnant woman, whose immunity is already reduced, the risk of infection is much higher than for other passengers.

As a precaution, you can use a special medical mask, but you should understand that it does not provide a 100% guarantee. Taking any medications (especially without consulting a doctor) in the first trimester of pregnancy is strictly not recommended.

Who is prohibited from flying on an airplane?

A short period of time in itself is a contraindication to air travel, but rather relative than absolute. Women should definitely not board an airplane in the following cases:

if there is a threat of spontaneous abortion (or if similar situations have occurred previously);
in acute forms of toxicosis;
with anemia and exacerbation of chronic diseases;
with increased uterine tone;
with placenta previa;
in the presence of bloody discharge.

More details about possible contraindications and individual recommendations regarding a future flight can be obtained from the doctor who is monitoring the pregnancy. He will be able to tell exactly what the risks are based on research data and the health status of his patient.

What to do if you still need to fly?

If your financial capabilities allow, it is better to purchase business class tickets, which feature more comfortable seats and improved quality of service. In addition, there is more free space for walking around the cabin and regular warm-up.

Here are some more tips to make your flight more comfortable:

wear comfortable clothes made from natural fabrics, as well as compression stockings;
take with you a small pillow for your neck and lower back, a blanket will also come in handy;
drink at least half a liter of water every hour (it is better to exclude tea and coffee);
choose a seat near the aisle (this will allow you not to disturb other passengers once again and will slightly reduce the crowding);
Stretch your legs and back regularly;
take nasal drops (spray) and wet wipes with you;
Always fasten your seat belt under your stomach;
a light sedative will help you relax and be less nervous during the flight (you should consult your doctor for specific recommendations);
You must have all the necessary documents with you, including a medical insurance policy and an exchange card; in addition, it makes sense to write down the telephone numbers of relatives and friends for emergency contact on a separate sheet.

One way or another, many pregnant women travel by air (including in the early stages) and only a few of them experience unforeseen situations. In any case, only the expectant mother herself can decide whether it is worth the risk or not.

Especially for- Elena Kichak

Premature birth, venous disease, the negative effects of radiation, the risk of oxygen starvation in the baby - these are not myths, but a real threat for the expectant mother going on air travel. To find out whether it can be avoided and, if so, how, read the article “Can pregnant women fly on an airplane?”

We are all individuals. Some people can go through the entire pregnancy and feel great, while others can lift something heavy and have to stay in bed until the end of the term. Same with flying. Meanwhile, if a doctor does not prohibit air travel for health reasons, you need to follow the general rules.

In the early stages, up to 14 weeks, it is better to refuse boarding. The reason for refusal is hormonal changes. The body of the expectant mother is preparing for the most important moment in her life and any outside interference, especially pressure changes during takeoff and fall, can end in failure.

In the 1st trimester, air travel can, at best, result in a deterioration in health, increased fatigue, nausea, vomiting, headache, and in the worst case, a spontaneous miscarriage. The duration of the flight is of great importance - the longer it is, the higher the risk.

Meanwhile, girls who will inevitably have to endure an air flight should know this. To date, there are no scientific studies that clearly prove any connection between flying on an airplane and the subsequent course of pregnancy. In other words, if something is wrong with the fetus, then bad things will happen, even if you just sit on the couch. And if everything is in order, then repeated multi-hour flights are not a hindrance for your baby.

The most favorable period for flights is from 14 to 28 weeks. In the second trimester, which is what it is, all hormonal changes in the female body have usually already passed, and all the organs of the fetus have formed. In other words, the expectant mother and her baby are in virtually no danger.

Please note that flying in the 6th month of pregnancy is not dangerous if the pregnancy is not burdened with complications. The main thing is to take some precautions before it, that is, to prepare. At 7 months pregnant, everything changes. Before a flight, it is important to visit a doctor and receive from him written confirmation of permission to travel by air, that is, a certificate. You may need it when boarding an aircraft.

By the way, some air carriers do not take on board passengers whose term has exceeded 28 weeks. And there are reasons for this, the first of which is the risk of false contractions developing into real ones. The same applies to flights in the 3rd trimester. It is better to refuse them.

How can it be dangerous for a child?

Lack of oxygen is one of the main dangers of air travel, and it does not matter how long it takes. In the cabin of an airplane, at high altitudes, the oxygen concentration decreases. There is no need to be afraid of hypoxia if there are no contraindications to flying. In any case, R. Huch, a professor from Switzerland, assures us of this. He studied this issue closely, studying the gas composition of a woman’s blood and the baby’s reactions, however, he took into account only healthy women.

There is an opinion that the flight is associated with the negative effects of radiation. Back in the early 90s, this was stated by the US Federal Aviation Administration, when they confirmed that pilots were exposed to the same amount of radiation over 12 months as employees of hazardous enterprises. Meanwhile, only those who fly too often should be wary.

Single air travel, even transatlantic, provides 2.5 times less radiation exposure than a chest x-ray. In case of a complicated or multiple pregnancy, boarding may result in miscarriage, premature birth, or bleeding from the genital tract.

What can be dangerous for a pregnant woman?

Women in an interesting position are especially sensitive to pressure changes during takeoff and landing. There is an opinion that such changes negatively affect their condition, causing miscarriages or premature birth, although at the moment this is not scientifically substantiated. At the same time, doctors recommend that patients refuse to fly in the 1st and 3rd trimester, so as not to provoke the worst. After all, there will be no medical team or pediatric intensive care unit on board.

Other possible negative effects:

Manifestations of toxicosis. Until how many weeks? Until the end of the first trimester. It is provoked by the same changes in atmospheric pressure, simultaneously causing headache, weakness, and general malaise.
Blood stagnation, thrombosis. The latter is caused by the appearance of a thrombus - a blood clot in the veins of the lower extremities. This is the most terrible danger that awaits a pregnant woman. Why? Because she is immobilized for a long time. What are the chances of developing thrombosis? In pregnant women, the risks increase 5 times, and this is not speculation, but the results of research. How can it all end? Venous thromboembolism. Pressure changes also aggravate the manifestations of varicose veins, especially if a woman takes hormones.
Edema. Frequent flights on long-haul routes increase the likelihood of their development.
Health problems. In most cases they are triggered by stress. Women are afraid to fly, especially when they do it for the first time, which subsequently provokes the risk of developing complications.

But don't despair. You can minimize the likelihood of all these consequences occurring. The main thing is to prepare for the flight, but more on that below.

Airline rules

It is worth noting that each air carrier has its own requirements for expectant mothers when boarding a flight. But there is no need to be upset, most of them provide for written permission to fly, which, in essence, is a certificate. You can request it, as well as an exchange card indicating the woman’s excellent health, already at 30 weeks.

Along the way, the expectant mother may be asked to sign a guarantee under which she herself will bear responsibility for the negative consequences of the flight.

Below are the rules of some air carriers that are present on the Russian market:

Aeroflot requires a doctor’s certificate as early as 36 weeks of pregnancy. The statute of limitations is a week or 7 days before air travel. The company has good reviews.
"Lufthansa" - "roll" for up to 6 months. Later, women in labor are asked to wait until delivery. The result of such bans is the absence of cases of premature births in the cabins of their liners.
"British Airways" - they require a certificate already at 28 - 36 weeks, and it must include the expected date of birth. After 36 weeks they will not take you on board.
“KLM” - with a singleton pregnancy they take it at 36 weeks, with a multiple pregnancy they require a certificate of no risks already at 35 weeks.
“Air France” - they love expectant mothers, but they are not allowed on board without a certificate with the expected date of birth if they are 3 weeks pregnant. If there is no certificate, there must be a midwife who can deliver the baby if something happens.
“SAS” - up to 4 weeks of pregnancy they are carried without a certificate, and after that even with it they are allowed on flights whose duration does not exceed 4 hours. After 36 - 38 weeks they may refuse.
“EL AL” - up to 32 weeks they “ride”, but with a certificate, after that they refuse.

Delta Airlines has no restrictions on flights, but other difficulties may arise there. This is an American air carrier that flies, including to the United States. If the birth takes place on the territory of this country, the child will automatically receive its citizenship. It's a good news. The bad news is that getting it out of the US could then be problematic.

There are cases when absolutely all airlines take on board women who are already pregnant or have already begun labor pains. We are talking about natural disasters, wars, urgent evacuation.

Thank you

Nowadays, air travel has become a completely ordinary event that does not evoke strong emotions in a person of any age, unless he is terribly afraid of flying. However, even such a trivial event as air travel raises concerns and many questions if the person planning to travel on an aircraft is a pregnant woman.

Due to the increased vigilance of a pregnant woman regarding her own condition, on which the normal development of the fetus depends, she wonders about the safety of almost any ordinary activity, including air travel. Let's consider the possible effects of air travel on the condition of a pregnant woman and answer the question: “is it possible to fly when pregnancy by plane?"

Flying during pregnancy

Air travel during pregnancy, at any stage of gestation right up to childbirth, is in the vast majority of cases safe and does not cause any significant harm to either the woman or the fetus. The only contraindications to air travel during pregnancy are threats of miscarriage or premature birth, placental abruption, gestosis, bleeding, grade III anemia, preeclampsia and exacerbation of existing chronic diseases. In the absence of these contraindications, a pregnant woman can fly freely on an airplane at any stage. Therefore, if the pregnancy proceeds normally and the woman feels well, then she can easily fly on modern airplanes without any harm to herself and the unborn child.

In general, the degree of safety of air travel for each specific pregnant woman depends on her state of health. That is, in essence, the safety of flying during pregnancy is the same as for the same but not pregnant woman.

The currently known potential dangers and possible negative impacts of air travel on the human body relate not so much to the growth and development of the fetus in the womb, but to any adult or child traveling on an aircraft. This means that all the risks and dangers of air travel for pregnant women are exactly the same as for non-pregnant women, men and children. Thus, the main risks of air travel are considered to be “economy class traveler syndrome”, an increased risk of thromboembolism, drying out of the mucous membranes of the ENT organs, infection by airborne infections due to the accumulation of a large number of people in the aircraft cabin, etc.

However, all existing relative risks of air travel can be reduced to almost zero by following simple rules of conduct throughout the flight, which we will consider separately.

Thus, we can conclude that a healthy woman whose pregnancy is proceeding normally (without complications) can safely fly on an airplane, following simple rules aimed at minimizing risks, when necessary, since air travel is safe for her and her unborn child. If a woman has any pregnancy complications, they should first be eliminated, after which, once a lasting improvement has been achieved, she can fly by air, also following simple rules that minimize the risks and negative effects of flying on an airplane.

Contraindications for flying during pregnancy

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that pregnant women avoid air travel if they have the following conditions or diseases:

Singleton pregnancy over 36 weeks;
Multiple pregnancy over 32 weeks;
The first seven days after birth;
Complicated course of pregnancy (for example, threat of miscarriage, gestosis, severe toxicosis, etc.).

These WHO recommendations are rather vague, since they reflect only the basic and very general points in which a pregnant woman is not recommended to fly on an airplane. Moreover, they are advisory in nature and are not contraindications. It is also clear from the WHO recommendations that a pregnant woman can fly on an airplane when she needs it, since air travel is safe for her and the fetus.

More clear contraindications to air travel during pregnancy are given by obstetrician-gynecologists from developed countries in Europe and the USA. Thus, the following conditions in a woman are absolute contraindications to air travel during pregnancy:

Placenta previa (complete);
Preeclampsia;
Anemia of III severity (hemoglobin level below 70 g/l).

This means that unless these absolute contraindications exist, pregnant women should not fly on an airplane under any circumstances.

In addition to absolute ones, there are relative contraindications to air travel for pregnant women. If there are such relative contraindications, a woman can fly on an airplane with caution, however, doctors strongly recommend that in such cases not travel by air. So, relative contraindications to air travel during pregnancy include the following conditions and diseases:

Threat of premature birth;
Risk of miscarriage;
Suspicion of placental abruption;
Anemia of II severity (hemoglobin level below 90 g/l, but above 70 g/l);
Low location of the placenta (taken into account only from the 20th week of pregnancy);
Abnormal structure of the placenta;
Bloody vaginal discharge at any stage of pregnancy, occurring 1 to 2 days before the planned flight;
Incorrect position of the fetus in the third trimester of pregnancy (from 28 to 40 weeks inclusive);
Multiple pregnancy more than 24 weeks of gestation;
Carrying out invasive procedures (for example, amniocentesis, choricentesis, etc.) within 7 - 10 days before the planned air flight;
Preeclampsia;
Severe toxicosis;
Excessive vomiting;
Thrombophlebitis suffered in the past;
Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus;
Uncontrolled hypertension;
Isthmic-cervical insufficiency;
Exacerbation of chronic diseases (for example, herpes, cytomegalovirus infections, etc.);
Acute infectious diseases (including colds, flu, etc.);
Pregnancy resulting from IVF;
Scar on the uterus.

These relative contraindications can become absolute, but only in each specific case if a woman has a really high risk of pregnancy loss due to any of the specified conditions or diseases. However, in general, if there are relative contraindications, air travel can be done, but this should be done only in case of urgent need.

Possible negative effects of air travel during pregnancy

Let's consider the possible negative effects of air travel on the body of a pregnant woman, which are widely publicized and ingrained in people's minds, and evaluate the degree of this influence on the basis of available scientific data and observations of flight attendants, on the basis of which we will draw a conclusion - whether this or that popular opinion is a myth or truth. So, there is currently an opinion that air travel is dangerous for pregnant women due to the following factors:

High risk of premature birth due to pressure changes;
Risk of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism (PE);
Effect of cosmic radiation;
Hypoxia;
Harm from going through a metal detector at registration;
Vibration and shaking in flight;
Dehydration;
Swelling of the nose and the appearance of rhinitis, sore throat and other signs of a cold;
Risk of contracting respiratory infections;
Risk of sudden obstetric complications.

Risk of premature birth due to pressure changes during takeoff, landing and exposure to turbulence

Many people have a ingrained belief that air travel at any stage of pregnancy increases the risk of premature birth. Moreover, this fact is explained by the fact that pressure drops that occur during takeoff, landing and turbulence negatively affect the uterus, causing labor.

However, many years of practical observations of flights of pregnant women at different stages of pregnancy have shown that the frequency of premature births in the air is the same as on the ground. And pressure changes in no way affect the contractile activity of the uterus. In other words, air travel does not increase the risk of premature birth, so it is not something to be afraid of. And even if a woman already has a risk of miscarriage or premature birth, air travel will not increase it. Thus, this opinion is a myth.

The risk of preterm birth can be determined using transvaginal ultrasound measuring the length of the cervix. If the cervix is longer than 14 cm, then the risk of premature birth is almost zero and you can safely take an air flight. If the cervix is shorter than 14 cm, then there is a risk of premature birth, the degree of which must be assessed by the doctor and a decision made whether this woman can fly on an airplane.

Many women are not convinced by the results of many years of practical observations, because they believe that if flights did not increase the risk of premature birth and did not negatively affect pregnancy, then airlines would not restrict their access to flights, requiring a certificate from a gynecologist, which indicates that this woman can fly on an airplane. However, airline policies have nothing to do with the impact of flying on pregnancy, so this conclusion is completely incorrect.

It should be understood that this airline policy is not due to the negative impact of flights on pregnancy, but to the desire to minimize the likelihood of stress for the crew of the airliner, which they will receive if a passenger begins to give birth in the aircraft cabin. After all, neither pilots nor flight attendants are gynecologists, and they do not particularly want to find themselves in a situation where they need to provide assistance to a woman in labor. Although flight attendants are trained in childbirth skills, they are not doctors or midwives, and therefore for them a woman giving birth is an emergency. And no one wants to be in a stressful emergency situation, so airlines simply insure themselves, preferring not to deal with such incidents. It is very simple to do this - to limit admission to air travel for pregnant women, which is what we see from the airlines.

Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism (PE)

The risk of deep vein thrombosis during long flights lasting more than 4 hours increases by 3 to 4 times in all people, not just pregnant women. However, since pregnancy itself is already a condition in which the risk of thromboembolism and pulmonary embolism is increased, air travel exacerbates this risk, increasing it by 3 to 5 times compared to non-pregnant healthy women. In addition, taking hormonal drugs additionally slightly increases the risk of thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. The risk of thrombosis and pulmonary embolism also increases as time spent in flight increases. That is, the longer the flight lasts, the higher the risk of thrombotic complications. Therefore, this opinion is true.

It must be remembered that the risk of thrombosis and pulmonary embolism during air travel is associated with low oxygen concentration and excessive dryness of the air in the aircraft cabin, consumption of alcohol, coffee and carbonated water, as well as prolonged exposure to a stationary position. All these factors cause blood stagnation in the vessels of the legs and dehydration, which leads to the formation of blood clots.

However, these increased risks of thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in pregnant women can be minimized by proper in-flight behavior (walking every 45 to 50 minutes, moving your legs frequently while sitting, wearing compression garments, etc.). If a pregnant woman follows these rules of conduct during flight, the risk of thrombosis will be significantly reduced. Currently, the British Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has developed the following Recommendations for pregnant women, the implementation of which will reduce the risk of thrombosis:

Stress your calf muscles for 5 – 10 minutes every hour;
Every 45 - 50 minutes, walk around the aircraft cabin for 10 - 15 minutes;
Drink 500 ml of liquid per hour (juice, still water);
Do not drink coffee, tea, alcohol;
Wear compression socks with a preventive degree of compression during the flight.

In addition, if a pregnant woman has additional risk factors for thrombosis, such as weighing more than 100 kg, multiple pregnancy, thrombophilia, varicose veins, then medication preparation must be carried out before the flight. This preparation is aimed at reducing the risk of thrombosis and pulmonary embolism during air travel, and consists of administering low molecular weight heparin preparations (for example, Fraxiparin, Dalteparin, Enoxyparin, etc.). The drugs are administered once, on the eve of the upcoming flight, at a dosage of 5000 units.

If for some reason low molecular weight heparin preparations cannot be administered, then they can be replaced by taking Aspirin 75 mg once a day the day before and on the day of the flight. However, Aspirin for the prevention of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism is less effective than low molecular weight heparins.

Effect of cosmic radiation

At an altitude of more than 2500 meters, there is indeed radioactive radiation due to solar activity. The fact is that the atmosphere of our planet delays these radioactive solar flares, preventing them from reaching the earth. Therefore, a person, while on earth, is not exposed to solar radiation. But if it rises into the air to a height of more than 2500 meters, then solar radiation will fully affect it, since the protective effect of the atmosphere in this case is no longer present. Thus, while in modern airliners, the flight of which takes place at an altitude of more than 2500 meters (usually at 10,000 meters), a person is actually exposed to solar radiation.

However, you should not panic, since this effect of solar radiation is completely safe for all people of any gender and age, including pregnant women. The safety of solar radiation to which a pregnant woman is exposed during air travel is due to the fact that the radiation dose received is very low. Thus, the dose of solar radiation received during a transatlantic flight is 2.5 times lower than during a chest x-ray. Therefore, during infrequent air travel, a pregnant woman is exposed to small doses of radiation that are not dangerous either to her or to the fetus.

Hypoxia

At high altitudes, the air is thin and the oxygen concentration is relatively low. Accordingly, the oxygen concentration in the aircraft cabin is lower than in the air on the surface of the earth. This situation leads to the fact that the amount of oxygen in the blood of any person, including a pregnant woman, also decreases slightly. However, hypoxia does not occur, since a decrease in oxygen pressure in the blood causes a series of compensatory reactions that provide tissues and organs with O2 in the quantities they need.

Thus, during the study of the effect of low oxygen concentration in the air during air travel on the body of pregnant women, it was revealed that there were no signs of hypoxia in the fetus (according to CTG data). That is, a slight decrease in the concentration of oxygen in the air and blood of a woman during a flight does not lead to hypoxia of the fetus, and, therefore, does not have a negative effect on its condition. Therefore, the common belief that the fetus experiences oxygen starvation during air travel is a myth.

The only situation in which the fetus may be in a state of hypoxia during air travel is the presence of grade III anemia in a pregnant woman. In this case, compensatory mechanisms are not enough to eliminate hypoxia due to the lack of the required amount of hemoglobin.

Metal detector frame at registration

The metal detector frame through which airplane passengers pass during flight check-in and baggage checks is not a source of radiation or any other type of ionizing radiation. These frames operate on the basis of a weak magnetic field, which is completely safe for anyone, including a pregnant woman. Thus, radiation exposure in the frame of a metal detector is a myth.

Vibration and shaking during flight

Unfortunately, during a flight it can shake due to entering turbulence zones, and this, in turn, can provoke nausea, vomiting, dizziness, motion sickness, or simply poor health for a pregnant woman. In principle, such unpleasant phenomena are not dangerous for the woman and the fetus, but they cause very noticeable discomfort.

Dehydration

There is dry air in the aircraft cabin, which contributes to the loss of moisture by the human body. In addition, drinking diuretic drinks, such as tea, coffee, alcohol, carbonated sweet water, etc., contributes to fluid loss, and, consequently, dehydration on an airplane. Therefore, theoretically, during an air flight, dehydration may develop due to the consumption of these drinks in large quantities. However, dehydration on an airplane is easy to prevent, since it is enough to drink 500 ml per hour of pure still water or juice, and avoid drinking diuretic drinks.

Swelling of the nose and the appearance of rhinitis, sore throat and other signs of a cold

The mucous membranes of the nasopharynx, nose and throat on an airplane can become very swollen and dry out due to the fact that the air in the cabin is very dry for all people, including pregnant women. Such drying of the mucous membranes can provoke the appearance of a runny nose, nasal congestion and sore throat. To prevent overdrying of the mucous membranes on the plane, it is enough to simply moisten them regularly with solutions based on sea salt (Humer, Aqua-Maris, etc.), use vasoconstrictor drops (Otilin, For Nose, Vibrocil, Galazolin, etc.) and refresh your face clean water. Nasal swelling can be relieved with the help of antihistamines, such as Erius, Telfast, Cetrin, Fenistil, Suprastin, etc.

Risk of contracting respiratory infections

In the cabin of an airplane, the risk of contracting any airborne infections is really high due to two factors. Firstly, there are many people in a small room, each of whom exhales their own bacteria and viruses into the air. And secondly, microorganisms exhaled by passengers on the current and several previous flights also accumulate in the filters of aircraft air conditioners, since they are changed once every few flights. As a result, there are a huge number of microorganisms in the aircraft cabin, both exhaled by passengers and released into the air from air conditioning filters. This situation certainly creates an increased risk of contracting various respiratory infections. Pregnant women whose immunity is weakened should use a mask covering their mouth and nose to prevent infection during flight.

Sudden obstetric complications

The likelihood of developing any obstetric complications during a flight is the same as on the ground. However, the aircraft cabin lacks qualified medical personnel and equipment necessary to assist the woman and child. Therefore, complications that develop during a flight can be fatal not because of being in the sky itself, but because of the lack of doctors, equipment and medicines. Therefore, if there is a high risk of any complications, then it is better for a pregnant woman not to fly. In principle, all conditions that are relative contraindications for air travel during pregnancy can be classified as a high risk of obstetric complications.

Rules of conduct for pregnant women during air travel

To minimize all possible risks and ensure the safest possible air travel, pregnant women must follow the following rules during the entire period of their stay in the aircraft cabin:

For the flight, dress in comfortable clothes that do not restrict movement and do not compress fabrics;
During the flight, you should wear compression socks or stockings with a preventive degree of pressure;
During the flight, you should wear a gauze or synthetic mask covering your nose and mouth;
Be one of the last to board the plane;
Wear shoes that can be taken off without bending down and put on as well;
Avoid sitting cross-legged as this impedes blood circulation and increases swelling;
Every 45 - 50 minutes get up and walk down the aisle for 10 - 15 minutes;
For 5 - 10 minutes every hour, strain the muscles of the lower legs and make simple movements of the ankle in a sitting position (for example, pulling the sock towards you and away from you, etc.);
If the shoes begin to put pressure on the foot or feel on it, then it is necessary to remove it;
Fasten the belt under the stomach;
Drink 500 ml of non-carbonated pure water or juice every hour;
Choose seats in the nose of the plane, because, firstly, the air flows from the cockpit to the tail and it will be easier to breathe, and secondly, there is less shaking in this part;
If possible, it is recommended to buy business class tickets, since it has more comfortable and wider seats, as well as relatively large aisles that allow you to stretch your legs and take the most comfortable position;
Choose a seat near the aisle so that you can stand up and walk along the aisle;
Take several small pillows to the salon to place under your neck, lower back, etc. in order to ensure maximum comfort;
To refresh your face, take with you and use thermal or mineral still water as needed;
To rinse the nose and mouth in order to eliminate dry mucous membranes, take with you and use salt solutions (Aqua-Maris, Humer, Dolphin, etc.);
To reduce the effect of stuffy ears and motion sickness, you need to take sour candies and dark chocolate and consume them as needed;
To eliminate the symptoms of motion sickness, take with you and use, if necessary, homeopathic medicines that are safe for pregnant women, such as Vertigohel or Avia-more;
Do not drink coffee, tea, alcohol and sweet carbonated drinks;
Place the exchange card and a note indicating the blood type and telephone number of your loved one in a visible place.

The most favorable periods of pregnancy for air travel

The most favorable and safest period for air travel is the second trimester of pregnancy, that is, from 14 to 27 weeks of gestation inclusive. During this period, toxicosis has already ended, the stomach is still relatively small, and the threat of premature birth is minimal. Therefore, women are recommended to plan air travel during the second trimester of pregnancy.

In addition to favorable periods, there are also unfavorable periods for air travel, during which the flight is most dangerous for a pregnant woman. Such unfavorable periods for air travel, and indeed for any other active activities, include the following:

From 3 to 7 weeks of pregnancy;
From 9 to 12 weeks of pregnancy;
From 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy;
Each period of the next menstruation, which would have occurred if there had been no pregnancy.

During these dangerous and unfavorable periods, it is recommended to refrain from air travel.

Flying at different stages of pregnancy

Flying in the early stages (1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks of pregnancy)

Flying during 1 and 2 weeks of pregnancy is safe. And in the 3rd and 4th weeks of gestation, it is better to refrain from flying, since during this period the formation of the internal organs of the fetus begins, and any cold suffered during this period can cause malformations and subsequent miscarriage.

Flying during the 1st trimester (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 weeks of pregnancy)

It is better to refrain from flying during the 5th, 6th, 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th weeks of pregnancy, since it is during these periods that the laying and formation of all the main organs and systems of the fetus occurs. If, under the influence of a cold or stress, the organs are not properly formed, the pregnancy will not take place and a miscarriage will occur. Thus, the safest weeks for air travel in the first trimester are 7 and 8 weeks.

Flying during the 2nd trimester (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 weeks of pregnancy)

This period is the safest for air travel. However, it is best to avoid flying at 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22 weeks, as this is when the risk of late miscarriage is highest.

Flying during the 3rd trimester (28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36 weeks of pregnancy)

In the third trimester, you can fly at any stage if there are no complications and you feel good. However, it must be remembered that many airlines, starting from 28 weeks of pregnancy, require a certificate from a gynecologist indicating that the flight is permitted. Such a certificate must be obtained no more than 7 days before the flight.

Rules of various airlines for transporting pregnant women

Currently there are generally accepted following Rules for the carriage of pregnant women, which most airlines adhere to:

Up to 28 weeks of pregnancy women are allowed on board without any certificates or special documents;
From 29 to 36 weeks of pregnancy To board a plane, women must provide a certificate from a gynecologist stating that the flight is permitted;
From 36 weeks air travel is prohibited.

A certificate from a gynecologist, required for a flight from 29 to 36 weeks of pregnancy, is valid for a maximum of 7 days, so it must be obtained immediately before the planned trip. In addition, at any stage of pregnancy, at registration, a woman may be required to provide a certificate or other document (for example, an exchange card) indicating the gestational age.

These rules are general and most frequently encountered, but not universal. Many airlines use other rules for transporting pregnant women, which can be either more strict or, on the contrary, loyal. For example, some airlines accept women on board even after 36 weeks of pregnancy with a certificate from a gynecologist stating that the flight is permitted. Therefore, when buying plane tickets, you need to find out the rules of the airline that operates the flight.

Most major airlines have the following policies regarding pregnant women:

KLM – up to 36 weeks free, after which the passenger will not be allowed on board under any circumstances;
BRITISH AIRWAYS – up to 28 weeks free, and from 28 until the birth only with a certificate from a gynecologist, which states that there are no contraindications for flying and with a completed application that the woman is aware of all the risks and does not blame the airline;
LUFTHANSA – up to 34 weeks free, from 35 weeks until delivery only with a certificate from a gynecologist who works in a special center of the airline;
Aeroflot and S7 – a doctor’s certificate at any stage of pregnancy;
UTair, Air Berlin, Air Astana - up to 36 weeks with a certificate from a gynecologist, and from 36 weeks - flight is prohibited;
Air France – free at any stage of pregnancy until birth;
Alitalia – free up to 36 weeks, and after that with a doctor’s certificate.