airplane travel during pregnancy

If you read any information about travelling while pregnant, it will say that travel during the 2nd trimester is the best and safest time to go.  But the reality is that many women have to travel at different times throughout and planning during only the three months of the 2nd trimester is not always practical.  They say travelling during the first three months is not advisable as it's the most critical part of the pregnancy.  And travel during the last three months is not advisable as it's nearing the ending point and who wants to deliver on a plane, right (although I've heard that in such cases your baby will receive free tickets for life...lol)?  :)  My best advice is to talk to your Dr. about any travel plans you may have or want to make and s/he will advise you accordingly.  In many cases your travel plans may be permitted by your Dr.  There are a lot of women who must travel for business, and just think about flight attendents.  I know that many attendents will continue to work and fly through a good two-thirds of their pregnancies.  But because each case is different, you must discuss it with your Dr. first.

I travelled during my 2nd trimester with little guy.  And everything was okay.  I had one spot of blood a few days after landing and that was it.  Nothing more.  I'm still not sure if that was from the flying, or just the increased activity from the trip itself.  If it would've continued, I would've seen a Dr. for sure.

This year I'll be travelling in my 1st trimester.  I'll be in my 3rd month on the way to my destination and I'll be starting my 4th month on the way back.  I admit that I was nervous that my Dr. would not okay this trip.  My flight will be 13-14 hours. 

However, my Dr. did okay it, but with some rules.  I think these are important tips for any woman who is planning to fly during pregnancy.  Here they are...

~ My Dr. has prescribed baby aspirin for me to start taking two weeks before I travel.  Baby aspirin is a low dose aspirin that is considered safe during pregnany.  It helps to thin the blood and prevent clotting during long haul flights. 

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~ My Dr. has also recommended that I wear surgical stockings during the flight.  These will help with blood circulation.

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~ My Dr. has advised me to drink lots of water throughout the flight. 

~ My Dr. has advised me to get up and walk around frequently.  From my first experience I can tell you that this is done without even thinking.  When you're pregnant bathroom trips are frequent and with all that water drinking, they'll be even more so.  :)

Here are a few of my own helpful tips:

~From my first experience I can share that taking extra snacks is important.  On our return trip during my first pregnancy we were stuck on board for 6 long hours.  Because our airline offers snacks, all I brought were some Reese's pieces.  Because our flight was a connecting one, they were only able to offer our one snack (which was a sandwich and drinks).  It lasted for an hour or so, but soon this pregnant mama was hungry again.  That day Reese's pieces and I became bff's....lol.  So, no matter what the situation, be sure to pack some snacks.  Your baby and your hunger with thank you for it.  And try to include some healthy options too, like crackers, pretzels, etc.

~As hard as it is, try to rest as much as possible.  Travelling can be tiring, add pregnancy to that and it's double tiring.  Unless you're flying first class, sleeping is challenging on a plane.  But do try to find some sort of comfortable position so that you can sleep.  Our flight is 13-14 hours.  My goal each flight is a good 8 hours of sleep.  It's not the same as 8 hours in my bed at home, but it helps a little. 

~Don't push yourself.  We have a three hour drive after our 14 hour flight.  And even though hubby does the driving, I still feel the strain of that drive.  I'm the navigator, staying alert, and paying attention to the road signs.  This year, we have decided to stay overnight near the airport in the hotel, get a good night's rest, and then wake up refreshed for the drive to my parent's house.

~ Do not lift heavy things.  We all know how heavy suitcases can get.  Don't be afraid to ask for help in lifting them.  Instead of a shoulder duffel bag, opt for a small carry-on suitcase with wheels.  Your shoulders and your back will thank you too.

~ And finally, remember that you should always discuss your personal situation with your Dr.  While some women can travel without complications, some may not.  Your Dr. will help you decide what's safe for you.  And also keep in mind, that when you're further along in your pregnancy, airlines may require a Dr's note of permission in order for you to fly.

Happy Travels!  :)