Safety Issues Regarding Air Travel during Pregnancy

Many people don't enjoy the idea of flying, but when you are pregnant all kinds of new considerations come up.

You may worry about radiation or the effect of cabin pressure changes on your baby.  You may ask yourself: "what will happen if I suddenly start labor in mid-air!?"  Here are some flying facts for the pregnant traveler.

Who can travel?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that women can fly safely up to 36th week of pregnancy. So buckle up, you could be on your way to the Caribbean!

Some obstetricians will also prefer that you short distance flights over land if possible, so in an emergency medical care will be available.  But not all obstetricians will think this a necessary condition.

What about cabin pressure and radiation?

In research that has been conducted in order to examine the effect air travel has on pregnant women, the conclusion was that there isn't any cause for alarm. In general, flying hasn't got harmful effects on expecting mothers or their baby.

Moms-to-be may be concerned about the effect of cabin pressure changes on the baby.  But there is no need for worry.  Your baby is completely able to adjust to the lowered cabin pressure on a plane, so there shouldn't be any problem with the oxygen supply.  The same goes for questions regarding radiation in planes, there isn't any evidence suggesting harmful effects of radiation on women who take the occasional flight. 

When should you ask further questions?

Health
The exception to this rule is if you have any particular health problem such as: severe anemia, sickle-cell disease, trait, or a history of thrombophlebitis.  Furthermore, if you have any problem of placental abnormality or any risk for premature labor, you would be advised to avoid air travel completely.