Things to Know About Air Traveling During Pregnancy

Airlines allow pregnant women to travel until week 36 if they are pregnant with one baby and until week 32 if they are carrying twins. After this term, a pregnant woman might go into labor at any moment. No airline wants to have a birth given on board or divert a flight to deliver a woman to a hospital.

In general, traveling by air is safe for a pregnant woman. Still, the journey might not be so pleasant while bearing a child. So, however great and healthy you feel, consider booking yourself into business class. Below, you will find more advice on how to make traveling more comfortable.

Opt for a Journey if You Have a Good Reason for It

Every travel might turn out to be a risk. There should be a valid reason why you decided to travel when you are expecting a baby. Don't neglect the fact that you deserve to be treated with TLC now!

If the goal of your flight is to have a pleasant and relaxing time and rest or meet people that make you feel joyful, traveling is possible, but only if your physician allows doing it.

If it is another working trip you used to do before pregnancy, and you can avoid it, do this.

Travel if you really need to get somewhere or you know that getting there is important for your mental health and happiness not because you are obliged to.

Plan the Best Period of Pregnancy to Travel

While in the third trimester, the concern is early birth, in the first trimester, women often don't feel great. You are very likely to have nausea, weakness, and heartburn. If you plan a short distance get-away before giving birth to a child and the first unforgettable months of welcoming a new member of the family, the second trimester is the best time to travel. So, even If a work trip is inevitable, plan it between the 13^th and the 26^th week of pregnancy.

Book the Best Flight and Seat Possible

If you choose to travel during pregnancy, it is important to have enough legroom to be able to raise and move your limbs. Even if you like admiring the views from the plane, it is still better to book an aisle seat since it will give you more chance to stretch your limbs in a passage. It will be easier for you to get up from your seat and walk a bit if you feel like it.

Make sure you have at least 2 hours connection if you have a second flight to catch. Aim to avoid red-eye flights; fly during the day and arrive at your destination at a reasonable time.

Dress Comfortably

Loose breathing clothes are general advice for a pregnant woman, but they are especially recommended for the air trip. Consider trying compression stockings or high socks. Both pregnancy and air travel result in foot and leg swelling and create additional pressure on the leg veins. Care about your legs and make them feel better. Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to take off. During the flight, exercise your foot by pointing your toes in different directions. It helps to lessen swelling.

Air-conditioning might make the temperature in the plane drop. Don't forget to take your favorite thin woolen scarf with you since it is very important for you not to catch a cold. Also, take a comfortable travel cushion to rest on.

Pack Necessary Things into Carry-on Baggage

On one hand, you are advised to carry minimum hand luggage and not to lift anything heavy. On the other hand, there are two types of things you must take with you. First are the things that should make you feel good on the plane. Bring a nice book, favorite sweets or fruit, and lots of water. If the flight is a distance one, make sure you have enough healthy food to make you energized. Besides, there are some emergency things you can't trust to put into check-in baggage since it can be lost or arrive with a delay. Pack medicines you are taking, health insurance, and hand-held notes in the bag you take with you in the cabin. If you are more than 28 weeks pregnant, it is better to have a letter from your doctor declaring that you have no complications and specifying your due date.

It is also a good idea to ask your doctor for a medical reference at a place you are planning to stay.

Be Mindful in the Airport and During the Flight

Don't be scared of security scanners ­ they are safe for a pregnant woman. At the same time, don't be afraid to ask for help or a seat if you feel tired. When you will be required to fasten your security seat belt, make sure you strap it under your bum. Don't hesitate to ask for an extension if needed.

Of course, pregnancy is not an illness but quite the opposite. Nevertheless, avoid traveling alone. Do it in the pleasant company of your friend or loved one to make your air travel more comfortable and enjoy it.