Expert: Roberto Gomes - 2/16/2007

Question
EXPLAIN GIVING REASONS THE RISK FACTOR ENCOUNTERED IN TAKING AN EXPECTANT MOTHER BEYOND THE 28th WEEK ON BOARD THE FLIGHT?

Answer
There are some restrictions as to just who should and should not travel the skies when they are pregnant. Generally, women who are having a healthy, normal pregnancy are free to come and go as they please. However, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends women don’t fly after their 36th week of pregnancy.

Women who are having any sort of complications associated with their pregnancy or who are considered to be ‘high risk’ should not travel. This includes women with poorly controlled diabetes, sickle cell disease, placental abnormalities, hypertension or those at risk for premature labor.

Whether the expectant mother is in her first trimester or third trimester, it is always a good idea to discuss travel plans with a health care provider before you leave. It may also be a good idea to obtain a doctor’s note saying that it is okay to travel, especially if in third trimester. Not every airline requires a doctor’s note to let you on the plane, but sometimes it’s easier to take the extra precaution in order to avoid any possible hassles when on  board.

Many women report that their second trimester is when they feel the most comfortable. Morning sickness is usually gone, risk of miscarriage is significantly lowered and they have the least chance of going into preterm labor at this point. It’s no wonder many women take advantage of this newfound comfort and take to the skies. However, there are still some issues you need to be concerned about; namely your circulation.

Pregnancy can cause circulation problems in any women. It is also well known that when you are flying, you have an increased chance of developing a blood clot. Put the two together and there could be some problems.

Flying in the third trimester is still safe so long as the due date is not too close. However, the possibility of going into premature labor is something to consider before take off.

Safety issues associated with cabin pressure concern some women. All commercial flights these days have pressured cabins that are set to the equivalent of 5,000 to 8,000 feet, or about the altitude of Denver. Obviously, if you come from a low altitude area, the change in air will affect you somewhat. Your heart rate and blood pressure will increase to help your body with its oxygen intake.

For most pregnant women, this is not a problem. However, if you have any sort of cardiovascular problems, it is strongly recommended that you avoid flying. All pregnant women, though, should steer clear of flying in an unpressurized cabin.