Air Travel While Pregnant - Tips You Need

Air Travel While Pregnant – Tips You Need

It’s the holiday season – and that could mean travel for you. And if you are expecting, you might have some questions about the safety of flying during this time.

Here are a few tips that can help ease your mind a bit and give you some sense of security as you look ahead to that holiday trip before the baby comes.

Pre-Trip
Since your doctor has already been involved with you every step of the way, it’s important to get his or her advice before flying. The further along in your pregnancy you are, the more important this is. Talk it over with your doctor to see if they have any recommendations or advice particular to you.

You should also plan to have your doctor’s phone number, as well as family member’s contact information in the event they would need to be reached while on your trip. Additionally, have a list of any medications you are taking written down and with you.

What Do the Airlines Have to Say
The general consensus is that it is safe for you to fly up to 36 weeks into your pregnancy. Of course, this is if you haven’t had any issues during the pregnancy. And while each airline has its own policy for the safety of its pregnant passengers, it can reduce your stress if you know ahead of time what your particular airline requires.

What to Take on the Plane
The main thing to remember when packing is that you want to make sure you have on hand what will keep you the most comfortable and healthy on your trip.

Morning sickness can rear its ugly head at any time, so be sure you have something to take for that within easy reach. Also be sure to take any medications and vitamins with you in your carry-on.

Your comfort is important these days, so be sure you have things with you that will help keep you comfortable, such as a pillow, a light blanket and even compression socks. Yes, the airline provides some of these items, but you know from experience that your own items are the most comfortable.

It is also good to have snacks with you to keep your blood sugar levels stable. A snack (especially something with ginger or saltine crackers) can also help fight off those bouts of nausea that show up from time to time. And having a water bottle with you is a must – it is easy to become dehydrated with the dry air on the plane, so your water intake should increase.

And last, in the event that you go into labor (we know . . . that’s not ideal, but always possible), be sure you have with you copies of your medical records. Birth plans are popular these days, so if you have made one, have a copy with you in your carry-on. And here’s to hoping that you won’t need to pull it out!

Pregnant Travel & COVID-19
We know that with COVID-19, this is a particularly stressful time – both for travel and for being pregnant. But we also understand that travel plans may still be in your future. If that is the case, it’s a must that you have your travel plans approved by your doctor. Your health, and that of your baby, is of extreme importance, so you need to do everything you can to ensure that you are traveling safely.

That safety can be enhanced by things like wearing your mask at all times, frequent hand-washing (or sanitizing) and making sure that the airline you choose blocks the middle seats to allow you some social distancing.

While airlines are sanitizing their planes between flights, it would be a good idea for you to use sanitary wipes to wipe down your seat – including the seat-back tray and TV screen – before you get settled.

Additionally, while you are at the airport, use disposable gloves while going through security. This will help you remember to not touch things as often, and the gloves can be disposed of when you get to your seat.

Conclusion
While the combination of COVID-19 and pregnancy can make travel a bit more difficult, it doesn’t have to be a time of great stress for you. By taking the time to plan ahead and being prepared and cautious, air travel can still be a part of your holiday plans.

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