Flying During Pregnancy - The Definitive Guide

The case of Dublin, Ireland, in August 2011 led to the flight when the pregnancy as part of the media. Olayinka Ijaw Nigerian asylum seeker who had a miscarriage 8 weeks was to be deported and the Rotunda Hospital was awarded him a letter stating that if it was vaginal bleeding, which would be unsuitable for carriage by air. Although this case related to a woman who had suffered a miscarriage, gives us the opportunity to examine in more detail in flight during pregnancy.

What are the risks of flying during pregnancy?

The risks of air travel during pregnancy are deep vein thrombosis, premature birth and miscarriage.

Also keep in mind that the British Medical Journal shows that there is a limit on solid evidence which makes it difficult for health professionals to provide definitive advice.

So, to clarify that there are several general guidelines, but given that air travel and pregnancy is a relatively new topic British Medical Journal (BMJ) that the only way to completely avoid the risk of postponement of flights. The BMJ also means that traffic may be necessary or desirable in pregnancy.

Most low-risk pregnancies and if you fall into this category are the following general guidelines should apply to you. However, keep in mind that these are only a guide and you should always consult your own health care.

Air travel during pregnancy have some general guidelines such as:

1. The second trimester (18-24 weeks) is considered the safest time to fly, when you are pregnant. E 'during this period that most women should feel better, and that there is generally the lowest risk of miscarriage or premature birth.

2. If you feel that you want to fly after pregnancy before making a final decision to hold an item you are going to fly. It is a well-equipped medical attention if you need it?

3rd Do you fly to a destination where there are particular risks of contracting infectious diseases? Infectious diseases acquired abroad can increase the risk of perinatal morbidity.

4. In this case, it is advisable to re-target, or if you need to fly you should definitely consult your doctor.

5. Check the airlines policy on flying during pregnancy, and that differences in an airline.

6. Buy the most suitable travel insurance cover.

If you do not fly:

1. Ask us for more leg room can seat hall.

2. If you travel during pregnancy, and wear clothing that does not restrict movement and loose and comfortable.

3rd Make sure to drink plenty of fluids during the flight during pregnancy.

4th Every half hour you get up and walk around if possible.

5. Sit-aware of the bending and stretching of the legs to keep moving your feet healthy.

Making sixth cardiovascular exercises, as described more often in-flight magazine and wear compression stockings (flight socks).

7. Fasten your seat belt over the thighs to rest on its belly.

Flying during pregnancy, potential medical problems

Health workers are potentially concerned about how the deals as well as a destination, health facilities and adequate insurance coverage.

The doctor wants to evaluate his fitness to fly a pregnant patient, and focuses on the values ​​of blood pressure, and ultrasound scans during pregnancy outcomes.

The doctor will consider whether the woman is at increased risk of birth miscarriage, premature delivery, before delivery of bleeding or pre-eclampsia. He / she will also assess whether the woman has all the pre-existing conditions such as asthma or diabetes.

No evidence of risk of miscarriage during the flight during pregnancy?

At the time of writing there is no evidence to suggest that flying while pregnant increases the risk of miscarriage. However, there are studies that show that women flight attendants are not the fastest rate of miscarriage than their peers.

While there is no evidence to suggest an increased risk of miscarriage during pregnancy in flight, if a miscarriage occurs, it would be harder to handle.

Flight when the end of pregnancy

Consider destination, health facilities, stage of pregnancy you are going to fly in, and consult your health care professional who will consider your medical history, pregnancy and scans your destination. A final point is that such a worst-case scenario, but if you were not able to return home for some reason, this would mean that you should spend the rest of your pregnancy away from home.