Flights for pregnant women. Can pregnant women fly on an airplane? Traveling by plane for pregnant women: rules

It’s worth dotting the i’s right away – pregnancy itself is not a contraindication to flying. And in general, this is not a disease. But still, the expectant mother, to one degree or another, needs to take into account her position.

General information about flying during pregnancy

To begin with, it is worth considering that the course of pregnancy very individual all women, so you cannot refer to your friend/sister/daughter-in-law when making a decision about a trip. If they were not contraindicated from flying during pregnancy, this does not mean that you can too, and vice versa.

If your friend, for example, spent her entire pregnancy in bed, it is not at all necessary that you should do the same. And your friend the ballerina did not give up her studies at all until the very birth. Or your sister was actively involved in ballroom dancing, or conquered Everest in the seventh month, or jumped with a parachute - don’t rush to repeat her personal records.

First, consider your age, your current state of health, and the length of your pregnancy. Everything is fine? Your analyzes are such that you can at least launch them into space? Do you feel wings growing behind your back?

However, even in this case, you cannot predict your body's reaction to new climatic conditions. It is quite possible that, although you feel great in your usual climate, you will feel worse when you go, for example, to Tunisia.

In addition, do not forget that many foreign airlines do not allow women with a period of more than six months on board their planes. As a rule, from you will require a certificate, which should indicate the approximate due date and your absence of contraindications to flying. However, in the CIS countries, companies are more loyal.

Moreover, our flight attendants even take first aid courses during childbirth, apparently such situations on board domestic aircraft are not uncommon. By the way, this is also a reason to think.

Everything described above is only a warning, and not a categorical ban on flying during pregnancy. In any case, only a doctor can authorize or prohibit you from flying. However, it is worth studying the contraindications for flying yourself.

Under what circumstances should pregnant women not fly on an airplane?

There is an opinion that in the early stages of pregnancy, flying is a threat to the development of the fetus, they say, it is fraught with all sorts of pathologies and defects. Let's face it, there is no scientific basis for this statement. And yet, exactly short period of time is one of the first contraindications for flying during pregnancy. This is due to the fact that during takeoff and landing, the body experiences sudden changes in pressure, which is fraught with the tone of the uterus and can provoke a miscarriage, especially if your fetus is located low.

Also, high blood pressure threatens abruption of the ovum or placenta. In addition, it would not be superfluous to determine the length of the cervix using ultrasound. If you have less than 15 mm, this is a potential threat of premature birth.

Again, after the fourth month you must have a doctor's certificate with you, otherwise you may not be allowed on board.

Serious contraindications to pregnant women flying on an airplane are various ailments that the expectant mother suffers from. If you are experiencing phlebeurysm or thrombophlebitis , in order to avoid negative consequences, it is better to refuse long trips or choose an alternative mode of transport.

Please note that if your legs are swollen and numb, even an hour in a static sitting position will be enough for complications to begin. In this particular case, the only thing worse than traveling by plane is traveling by road, because there your movements will not only be limited, but impossible.

Do not forget that at an altitude of more than 3000 m, the oxygen level in the aircraft cabin significantly decreases, which is a potential threat to the child. Excess carbon dioxide in the mother's blood can lead to. Especially if you have been given diagnosis of “chronic fetal hypoxia” or “intrauterine retention of the fetus” , you can’t fly on an airplane.

Also, you should not go on air travel if you have severe toxicosis, gestosis, multiple pregnancy, at a later date or you took advantage in vitro fertilization .

In what cases are pregnant women allowed to fly on an airplane?

A fair objection may arise: it was said that pregnancy itself is not an obstacle to flying, but everywhere you look, there are only contraindications. Indeed, many pregnant women fly safely. And the first indication for flying is the absence of all the listed contraindications, and also if you completely healthy . In addition, you should take into account the length of your pregnancy. Most suitable for travel second trimester .

All the vital organs of the child are formed by this time, and you have already become accustomed to this situation and have studied the reactions of your body. In addition, the expectant mother remains quite mobile in the second trimester, because there is still a decent period of time before giving birth. This period is the most favorable for air travel, since the risk of unforeseen complications in the well-being of the expectant mother is minimized.

There are situations that force a pregnant woman to board a plane, despite the due date. If it is impossible to postpone the flight, your task is to make it as comfortable as possible, and therefore safe.

Best of all, of course, fly business class . There are two reasons for this - physical and psychological. The first is due to comfortable wide seats, more space between the rows than in economy class. In addition, smoking is prohibited in business class cabins. And in the tail, the lack of oxygen is especially noticeable.

It is also important that flight attendants have a special attitude towards business class passengers. You won't have to worry about extra mineral water or juice. Although this seems wrong, because the staff should take equal care of all passengers, unfortunately, you cannot count on the increased attention of a flight attendant when sitting in economy class.

Also, before boarding a plane, you should stock up on sedatives if you experience anxiety during a flight.

If you have a long flight ahead, don’t be lazy get up and stretch your stiff legs and back. In addition, a walk before the flight, at least around the airport, will be useful. If you have signs of varicose veins, especially during advanced pregnancy, wear compression socks.

It wouldn't hurt to take it on a trip small neck pillow and blanket . An additional blanket, which the flight attendant will give you, can be placed under your lower back. This will help you find the most comfortable position and avoid back and neck pain.

Best suited for flying cloth loose fit made from soft natural fabrics.

Safety belt must be fastened under the belly.

Replies

There is so much that an expectant mother who decides to fly on vacation or on a business trip has to listen to: the impact of pressure drops and cosmic radiation on the child and on personal well-being, a collision between an airplane and spaceships and aliens... Most of the “scare stories” are nothing more than a myth.

Everyone knows that airplane passengers experience changes in atmospheric pressure, which lead to oxygen starvation. Together with the expectant mother, her child also feels slight hypoxia. This is not scary, because the child gets used to such training, and they are even useful. For example, a child in the womb feels slight hypoxia when she exercises, and this is also considered beneficial - why? Because he still has to pass through the birth canal, during which oxygen starvation will/can be significant. But during a complicated pregnancy, pressure changes can cause unexpected problems. These include premature birth, placental abruption, blockage of blood vessels with blood clots and other complications.

The first 14 and last 10–12 weeks are the most difficult and responsible periods, since the body still needs to adapt to the new state and hormonal changes. In addition, traveling during toxicosis, which most pregnant women suffer, is not only difficult, but also dangerous. At this time, it is better not to go far from home and live in familiar surroundings. The most suitable time for relaxation and travel is the second trimester (from 14 to 28 weeks) of pregnancy. At this time, the unborn child is well protected, and external factors have almost no influence on him. A pregnant woman, as a rule, no longer has toxicosis, but has a lot of energy. In addition, the belly is not yet so big that it interferes with movement.

The World Health Organization (WHO) does not recommend pregnant women using air transport in the following cases:

* pregnancy more than 36 weeks (more than 32 weeks in case of multiple pregnancy);

* complicated pregnancy (pregnancy pathology, threat of miscarriage, etc.);

* within seven days after birth.

Contraindications to travel at all stages of pregnancy:
– excessive vomiting;

– bleeding;

– threat of miscarriage, placenta previa, polyhydramnios and oligohydramnios; scar on the uterus after cesarean section;

– pregnancy that occurs after IVF or stimulation of ovulation;

– defects and various diseases of the female genital organs; late toxicosis (gestosis);

– anemia of II and III degrees;

– exacerbation of chronic diseases, tuberculosis, exacerbation of herpetic and cytomegalovirus infections, alcoholism and drug addiction.

Gynecologist Amina ASKHATOVA comments (interview for the website dom.no): “I would not recommend using this type of transport at a later date. Of course, the trip may end successfully, but no one guarantees this for sure. On an airplane, sudden changes in atmospheric pressure occur, which can cause vascular contraction and premature placental abruption, bleeding and even premature birth. Plus, there are also undesirable factors: noise, prolonged oxygen deficiency, vibration and emotional stress. At this time, it is generally better to refrain from traveling long distances.

Choosing an airline by... weeks
Many pregnant women learn about the special requirements of airlines for them already at the check-in counter, since not a word is said on the tickets about the nuances of servicing passengers in an interesting situation. There is simply no room for all the rules on this paper. But if you have already bought a ticket, ignorance of the rules does not exempt you from responsibility.

There is currently no scientific evidence that air travel during pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth. Flight-induced neurosis can be a risk factor, since stress is associated with an increased release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (stress hormone); with prolonged production of this hormone, a person can no longer cope with increasing anxiety on his own. Due to the fact that premature birth remains the No. 1 risk for pregnant passengers, airlines have developed special rules. Air carriers are afraid like hell that labor might begin during the flight. And it's not hard to guess why. After all, such an emergency situation can cause an emergency landing. Needless to say, this is fraught with a lot of additional costs for the company, and significant inconvenience for other passengers on the same flight. Before buying a plane ticket, find out what rules exist in the airline of your choice.

Aeroflot does not recommend flying 4 weeks before the expected due date and requires confirmation from a doctor. If there is no certificate indicating the date of birth, then the airport doctor will solve the problem. Aeroflot does not allow flights 7 days before the due date and within 7 days after the birth. Airline crews undergo special training in medical training centers. Interestingly, Aeroflot is in first place in the number of children born on airplanes, and this circumstance has given rise to a funny saying among the people: “Give birth on Aeroflot airplanes!”

At Sky Express Airlines, pregnant women whose expiration date – I’m tempted to write “expiration date” – ends within the next 12 weeks must provide a doctor’s written consent to fly. You will need to sign an undertaking that the airline is not responsible for possible negative consequences for the mother or fetus. Transaero will also ask you to sign the same piece of paper. Here, the flight of pregnant women is allowed, provided that it is carried out no later than four weeks before the expected date of birth and there is no danger of premature birth. Information about the condition of a pregnant woman, confirmed by a medical report and an exchange card, must be provided to the airline.

Utair agrees to transport pregnant women whose term does not exceed 30 weeks, and they will also ask for a receipt indicating that there are no claims for the consequences. The receipt is filled out when issuing a ticket at the agency or at check-in at the airport (if the receipt was not issued at the agency).

But what rules exist in foreign airlines (table from helmi.ru):

Before 36 weeks of pregnancy, a medical certificate is required; after 36 weeks, flights are not permitted
British Airways, Easyjet, British European, Air New Zealand

Medical certificate required after 36 weeks
United Airlines, Delta, Alitalia, Swissair, Air France, Lufthansa

No flights allowed after 36 weeks
Northwest Airlines, KLM

No restrictions
Iberia

Traveling after 34 weeks of pregnancy is only permitted if accompanied by a doctor.
Virgin

Traveling during multiple pregnancy is not permitted.
Air New Zealand

Nota Bene: no matter what the air carriers come up with, no matter how afraid they are and how they bully pregnant passengers, remember that you still have your constitutional rights. And no one has the right to refuse you a flight - and without a certificate they must let you through, and even with contractions. True, in the absence of the necessary documents (a doctor’s certificate, exchange card, etc.), you will have to endure an unequal battle with airline representatives; there have been cases when passengers were removed from flights without a certificate. As reviews in the forums show, it is much easier to come to an agreement with foreign airlines, they monitor their reputation, and only ours, as usual, resist to the end. Therefore, study the rules for transporting pregnant passengers in advance - less wasted nerves, better health.

Features of a flight in a special situation
1. Before the flight, you need to have a light snack, because hunger contributes to the appearance of motion sickness syndromes. Take a hematogen or dark chocolate in your pocket; any sour candies will also help. Before leaving home, you can drink a cup of weak ginger tea (sold in health food departments and herbal pharmacies) or mint tea. During the flight, do not look out the windows; if you are already feeling seasick, do not read. Relax, lean back and look straight ahead. Take a player with audiobooks with you, they will help you distract yourself and not cast panicked glances around (the more you turn your head, the worse you get motion sickness). Remedies for motion sickness allowed during pregnancy: Avia-sea and Vertigohel (homeopathy), but before taking them, consult your doctor. Take lemon, eucalyptus or mint essential oil with you to the salon.

2. As a rule, during any long journey you have to sit for a long time, your legs become numb, and blood circulation in the pelvic organs is disrupted. Find an opportunity to get up and walk around once again, this is extremely important for you. Take off your shoes as soon as you sit down in the chair. During the flight, you will need special neck pillows, and place a soft cushion or blanket under your lower back. Then sitting in one position will not be so difficult. Before the flight, you can wear special anti-varicose stockings. Do not sit in a cross-legged position - contrary to superstitions, this position does not result in the birth of club-footed children, the reason is different. It’s just that with this position of the body, blood circulation in the legs of the expectant mother is disrupted, which can lead to varicose veins. Experienced mothers advise finding a way to raise your legs higher - for example, in one of the forums a girl told how she periodically went to the toilet and sat there with her legs on the sink. Not a stupid idea at all, very useful.

3. The cabin may be stuffy or cold. Your mucous membranes, which already experience a triple load during pregnancy, can rebel, which threatens to worsen the “pregnant” runny nose. Take Aqua Maris with you in your hand luggage, as well as a 0.33 bottle of thermal or mineral water (still) to refresh your face.

4. Do not fasten seat belts on the stomach, but only below the stomach. The take-off and landing times are not so long, you can be patient, but as practice shows in case of disasters, the safety of the woman and the unborn child increases.

5. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, approximately 500 ml within one hour.

6. On an airplane, the most comfortable seats are in business class (wide seats, increased distance between rows), in the first row of economy class (increased distance between the seat and the cabin partition), followed by the first aisle seats in terms of comfort for a pregnant woman. rows of economy class (it’s easier to go out into the corridor there). Most airlines, including Aeroflot, have introduced a smoking ban, so the air on planes has become cleaner. But since the air flow in them goes from nose to tail, the last rows of the plane are still undesirable for pregnant women.

Should I take any medications “to make the flight easier”?
If you are healthy, you don't need medication. Therefore, there is no need to be indignant if the doctor did not prescribe them for you. Although it happens that they prescribe (no-shpu, papaverine), in most cases the reason lies in the well-known saying of Dr. Komarovsky “the doctor is obliged to prescribe a pill.” The side effects of the medications have not been canceled; their benefits during the flight are questionable. But consulting a doctor is necessary in any case, and it’s up to you to judge how much the doctor is safe.

What about insurance?
Any standard tour package must include an insurance policy that guarantees reimbursement of medical and medical transportation expenses in the event of an insured event abroad. Insurance companies do not have any special type of insurance for pregnant women; pregnancy is not an insured event. We bring to your attention another experiment from the website turist.ru. In the last article, an attempt was made to send a child on an independent flight. This time, representatives of the site insistently want to insure a pregnant airline passenger.

The reason for our next experiment was the story of Seryozha Korsakov, who was born in Turkey: we wanted to insure our supposedly pregnant correspondent, who, according to legend, in her seventh month of pregnancy decided to go to the UAE, and even go diving there. Doctors usually say that if the body is healthy and the pregnancy is proceeding normally, then, in general, there are no obstacles to the voyage. Moreover, doctors often give permission to fly at a later date. However, no one is immune from surprises. It is not known how an individual female body will react to any changes associated with travel: climate change, lifestyle changes, new foods (which sometimes provokes gastritis, cholecystitis and, as a result, also affects the course of pregnancy), pressure changes during the flight - everything can serve as an impetus for various troubles. In addition, the presence of a large number of people in a hotel or excursion group is always associated with the danger of the spread of infections and epidemics, which can cause problems for the development of the unborn child. And if the condition of a woman in an “interesting situation” suddenly worsens and her pregnancy is recognized as the reason for this, then in most cases she will have to pay for everything out of her own pocket.

“I beg your pardon, but we do not insure pregnant women,” was the response of all the surveyed insurance companies to the Turist.ru correspondent, who tried to expand the terms of the standard insurance policy to include risks associated with pregnancy. Moreover, the insurers did not even ask what period we were talking about. The news about the client's situation caused an unequivocal refusal. Contrary to popular belief, insurers are not ready to insure against everything in the world for our money. Pregnancy is recognized by insurance companies as too serious a risk, not covered by any increase factors. This is a worldwide practice: they do not insure anywhere for significant periods. According to Irina Tyurina, press secretary of the Russian Union of Travel Industry (RST), in Europe insurance is practiced for those traveling during pregnancy up to 8 weeks. If troubles arise with a woman’s health during this period, we are not talking about doctors’ responsibility for the life of a second person – a child, that is, medical care in this case is provided to one – the insured – person.

Yes, pregnant women are people too: they get tired at work and want to go on vacation. However, unlike most citizens, whom foreign doctors will treat for the money of insurance companies, all problems resulting from pregnancy are not recognized as an insured event (however, if problems with pregnancy are a consequence of an accident, then assistance, if this is recorded in the policy, will be provided). Problems such as bleeding and ectopic pregnancy may occur in the early stages. Women in these cases will need qualified medical care, including surgical intervention. The paradox of the situation is that at an early stage a woman may not yet know that she is pregnant. Sometimes some ladies with disrupted cycles are not aware of their situation until 4-5 months. Any medical services abroad are very expensive, and even staying in a foreign clinic is sometimes comparable in price to staying in an elite hotel. According to representatives of insurance companies, the highest cost of doctor's care is in the USA, Canada, Japan, Europe and Israel. In addition, to transport the patient home, special equipment will be required, and she will have to be accompanied by a doctor. The price of such services amounts to tens of thousands of dollars, which will be a completely “unaffordable” amount for poor families who have been saving all year for an inexpensive vacation at a foreign resort.

There is nothing reprehensible in the fact that pregnant women travel around the world - after all, the decision whether to travel or not can only be made by the pregnant women themselves and their husbands. But when they go on their travels, they don’t even assume that no one is going to pay for a number of medical services for them, and they don’t think about whether they have the opportunity to finance expensive treatment on their own. Thus, the majority of pregnant women we interviewed said that they did not think about it and hoped for help from the insurance company. In our country, it is not customary to carefully read an insurance policy, it is not customary to consult with doctors before visiting exotic countries (the climate of which can provoke chronic diseases), it is not customary to take care of yourself and your health, and it is not customary to take responsibility for your own carelessness. Maybe it will blow through?!

To go on holiday between the 25th and 28th weeks of pregnancy, as I did, requires desperate recklessness and a sacred belief that the trip will be for the benefit of mother and baby.

The first thing I took care of was my own condition. I feel good, the pregnancy is proceeding without threats or complications.

But you should definitely consult a specialist. Here you need to take into account the specific personality of your doctor. Some are afraid to take responsibility and do not sign the flight permit, scaring them with scary stories. If you really want to fly and you are confident in your health, seek advice and help from a gynecologist who is less prone to panic.

Third. Have you already taken care of insurance? You need to stock up on the best one, covering situations when a pregnant woman and her baby need emergency help.

Be sure to study the requirements of the airline you choose for pregnant women, their due dates and documents.

At check-in, actively demonstrate your position. You will be given a seat based on your position!

It’s impossible not to worry on an airplane. Place your hand on your stomach and try to calm down. As soon as I lost control of myself, my stomach would tense up. As soon as I relaxed, the baby also calmed down.

Important: before the plane I didn’t know about swelling. More precisely, only in theory, according to books. “On seventh heaven” I was inconvenient to once again disturb other passengers with walks to the toilet and back. For which I paid with terrible swelling: for several days after my arrival I could not put shoes on my swollen toes. Feel free to go to the toilet! Even every 10 minutes! On the way back, I no longer wanted to see sausages instead of toes, so I visited the ladies' room at every opportunity. Even just for the sake of taking a walk, we managed to avoid swelling!

And take into account the mentality of the country you are flying to (if it is another country). Not all over the world they will let a pregnant woman skip the line, bring her a suitcase and give up her seat. But they won’t look with sympathy as if she were dying.

And finally...
When on the Rusmedserver forum in the “Obstetrics and Gynecology” section they ask another question about the risk of flying late in life, the doctors there like to joke: “And don’t forget that the child is usually named after the captain of the ship!” What if it’s a girl?.. According to statistics, every year 5-7 children are born on airplanes, but these are statistics of worldwide cases. As already mentioned, there is no scientific evidence that flying can trigger premature birth if the pregnancy is not complicated. In the end, everything has its advantages: the daughter of an Egyptian woman, Haba Mohammed, who gave birth to a child on board an airplane, after her birth received the right to fly on planes of the Kuwaiti airline Al-Jazeera for 18 years. It turns out that the crew was even happy about such a gift of fate on board. But this case is one of very few, so fly during pregnancy without unnecessary worries and fears, everything will be fine!

Article from the Vinsky Forum.

You can hear many scary stories about the effect of flying on an airplane on pregnancy. But what is the truth about them? When are flights prohibited for expectant mothers? What rules will help them cope with air travel more easily?

Pregnancy and the plane: where the dangers really lie

Let's look at the ten most common arguments against air travel during pregnancy:

1. Heavy bags.

If you plan to take a lot of things with you, you should take care of a suitcase on wheels with a comfortable handle so that you can roll it without tilting the body. Even better, they can escort you to the plane and meet you at the airport, eliminating the need for heavy lifting. This precaution will not hurt at any stage of pregnancy.

2. Inability to receive urgent qualified medical care during the flight.

This is the main reason why most airlines are reluctant to board pregnant passengers. Many carriers also require you to provide a report taken the day before from a gynecologist or even from a medical representative of the airline about the absence of contraindications to the flight. In some cases, the expectant mother will not be allowed on board the plane without a receipt from the carrier or even without an accompanying doctor! See the table for more detailed requirements for each airline.

The fears are understandable: although flight attendants are trained in obstetrics techniques, they will not be able to provide full resuscitation care to a child or his mother in the event of an emergency. It is clear that it is impossible to set up an operating room for caesarean section or a blood transfusion department on board a passenger airliner. So during pregnancy, you need to carefully consider the possibility of flying, especially if you plan to deliver by caesarean section.

If the expectant mother constantly takes any medications, she must take them with her into the cabin. You can supplement your first aid kit with a remedy for heartburn, activated charcoal in case of bloating, mint candies against nausea, and a nasal spray with sea or mineral water.

3. Metal detector check during pre-flight check-in.

Modern devices for monitoring passengers do not generate X-ray radiation, but a weak magnetic field. Therefore, they do not pose any danger to the fetus at any stage of pregnancy.

4. Vibration and shaking during flight.

In the first trimester of pregnancy, this can cause nausea and vomiting, especially in expectant mothers prone to motion sickness. For this reason, it is forbidden to fly if there is a threat of premature birth, bleeding or preeclampsia.

Exposure to turbulent air currents is inevitable. Therefore, you need to choose modern models of airliners and not sit in the tail of the plane, where the shaking is felt more strongly.

5. Changes in atmospheric pressure.

The higher the plane soars into the sky, the lower the atmospheric pressure and the partial tension of oxygen in the inhaled air. Pregnant women are already sensitive to a lack of oxygen, and during an air flight this condition must be endured for several hours. This explains the possible deterioration of health: a feeling of lack of air, increasing weakness, headache and dizziness. The child does not suffer. His red blood cells contain special fetal hemoglobin, which binds oxygen much more strongly than the mother’s “adult” hemoglobin. The only great danger for the expectant mother and baby is anemia, which leads to severe oxygen starvation. Therefore, anemia of the 3rd degree is an absolute, and the second degree is a relative contraindication to flying.

Severe changes in atmospheric pressure can cause spasm of the blood vessels of the placenta and even its detachment. This is dangerous both for the child (severe hypoxia develops) and for the mother (bleeding occurs).

6. Solar radiation.

At high altitudes, due to the rarefied atmosphere, the liner is poorly protected from ionizing solar particles. But their strength is so insignificant that rare flights do not affect the child’s health in any way. Doctors recommend refraining from frequent and long trips by plane only in the first trimester of pregnancy. For example, flight attendants are offered temporary ground work.

7. Prolonged immobility.

This is a very serious problem that can even cause life-threatening complications in pregnant women. A large uterus in a sitting position strongly compresses the veins, disrupting the outflow of blood from the legs. Therefore, during a flight, pronounced swelling in the legs and increased varicose veins. And blood stagnation, especially against the background of excess body weight, easily provokes deep vein thrombosis and increases the risk of deadly pulmonary embolism (PE).

How to avoid this? Firstly, if there is a tendency to hypercoagulable blood (that is, if there is a tendency to form blood clots), as prescribed by a doctor, on the day of the flight and the next day, an injection of low molecular weight heparin is given, which reduces blood clotting. Secondly, during the flight you need to drink fluids no less than on other days, without being embarrassed by the frequent urge to urinate. Thirdly, you should take every opportunity to move around, walk around the cabin or hold your legs above the level of your body to reduce blood stagnation in them.

8. Dehydration.

During the flight, dry air is supplied to the aircraft cabin. In addition, people drink less fluids than usual, and prefer diuretic drinks such as tea, coffee, and sugar-rich fizzy drinks. Therefore, it is important to drink clean and mineral water without fear of frequent trips to the toilet. Moreover, this is an extra reason to move.

9. Increased swelling of the nose.

It’s not the pregnancy hormones that are to blame, but the dry air in the airplane cabin. Doctors recommend regularly spraying your nasal passages with mineral water from your personal first aid kit.

10. Excessive anxiety and fatigue due to jet lag

A long, exhausting journey can become a trigger for the development of the threat of miscarriage.

When is it contraindicated for pregnant women to fly?

Common sense should force you to refuse to fly on an airplane if a pregnant woman:

threat of miscarriage or premature birth;
partial placental abruption;
iron deficiency anemia 3 degrees or sickle cell;
the day before there was blood-stained discharge from the genital tract;
complete or partial placenta previa with occasional spotting;
gestosis;
acute otitis or sinusitis, diseases of the lungs and heart, accompanied by a feeling of lack of air.

All other contraindications are relative. This means that in special cases the doctor may approve the flight, but the risk of complications for the mother and her child is very high. Such contraindications include exacerbation of any chronic or acute diseases of the pregnant woman, severe nausea and vomiting, conception as a result of the use of obstetric technologies, multiple pregnancy, uterine scar, 2nd degree anemia.

Airplane during pregnancy: how to avoid problems

When buying a ticket, ask for a seat next to the emergency exit - it’s more spacious there.
Be among the last to board the plane to avoid crowds and unwanted contact with viruses.
Wear compression stockings on your legs or bandage them tightly with an elastic wide bandage to reduce blood stagnation in the veins.
Sit not strictly straight, but lean back slightly on the seat - this way the vessels of the legs are less compressed and the back is relaxed.
If you feel nauseous before the flight, it is better not to read on the way, but to sleep.
Eat in small portions, but often. For heartburn, high blood pressure and stomach problems, you can order individual meals in advance.
Carry dark chocolate with you in your purse to prevent attacks of nausea that occur due to carbohydrate hunger.
Don't worry in vain: the baby feels everything. Keep all your medical records and a notepad with contact numbers of close relatives or friends nearby.
Take out insurance that will cover the cost of medical care in the event of premature birth or other obstetric situations.
Fasten your seat belt as directed by the conductor, but make sure that the belt is located under your tummy.

Table: features of the conditions for accepting pregnant passengers on board aircraft of various airlines

Airline	At what stage of pregnancy is flying prohibited?	Do I need a certificate of permission to fly from an obstetrician?	Do I need a receipt to release liability from the airline?
Aeroflot	After 36 weeks (twins after 34 weeks)	Yes - indicating the duration of pregnancy and the expected date of birth - no earlier than a week before the flight.
	Allowed	Yes - there must be a record of the absence of contraindications to the flight on the date of the flight
Transaero	After 36 weeks	Yes, with the obligatory provision of an exchange card
Yu Tair (Utair)	Allowed	Yes, no earlier than a week before the flight	Yes, for a company representative and a copy for a woman
Northwest Airlines	After 36 weeks
	After 36 weeks
	Allowed	Only after 36 weeks
British European	After 36 weeks	Yes, no later than a week before the flight
	After 36 weeks
	Allowed
	Allowed	After 34 weeks must be accompanied by a doctor
American Airlines	Allowed	After 36 weeks (for domestic flights - after 39 weeks) - a doctor’s certificate (not more than 2 days old). 10 days before birth – permission from the airline’s medical service
	Allowed	Up to 34 weeks – not required. After 34 weeks, the doctor must fill out the MEDIF form (one week before the flight)
	Allowed	Up to 36 weeks – not required. After 36 weeks - a certificate from the airline’s medical center
	After 36 weeks. For short flights in Scandinavian countries - after 38 weeks	Yes, after 28 weeks of pregnancy (send a certificate to the airline one day before the flight)
	Flights are prohibited during multiple pregnancies and after 36 weeks.

Air travel in our time is an ordinary event that does not evoke special emotions in people of all ages, with the exception of those who are terrified of flying. But if an expectant mother plans to travel by air, anxiety and many different questions arise. Is it possible for pregnant women to fly on an airplane in the second trimester or are there any contraindications during this period?

Air travel and pregnancy are always a topic of debate. Doctors also disagree regarding the impact of airplane travel on the health of a pregnant woman. Many of them are confident that the additional stress to which the human body is exposed during a flight is undesirable for expectant mothers. After all, their body is already constantly in tension and in a state of stress. Recommendations regarding flights differ and depend on the stage of pregnancy. They are often contraindicated in the 1st and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. Some airlines have even introduced a rule for clients, which states that flights are only possible if they have a special certificate from a gynecologist allowing them to fly. Of course, flying is safest in the second trimester of pregnancy.

Contraindications

There are absolute and relative contraindications to air travel in the second trimester of pregnancy.

Absolute contraindications include the following pathological conditions in the expectant mother:

severe anemia (hemoglobin level 70 g/l or lower;
complete placenta previa;
preeclampsia.

Unless there are absolute contraindications, pregnant women should not travel by plane under any circumstances.

In addition to absolute ones, there are also relative contraindications. If they are available, a pregnant woman can travel by air with caution. But still, doctors, even if they are available, do not recommend air travel. Relative contraindications to air travel during pregnancy include the following pathological conditions:

risk of miscarriage;
moderate anemia (hemoglobin level within 70-90 g/l);
suspicion of placental abruption;
abnormal structure of the placenta or its low location;
multiple pregnancy;
severe toxicosis;
carrying out invasive procedures 7-10 days before the upcoming flight - cordocentesis, amniocentesis and others;
the presence of bleeding from the vagina at any time, which appeared 1-2 days before the trip;
scar on the uterus;
severe course of hypertension;
uncontrolled diabetes mellitus;
thrombophlebitis in the past;
excessive vomiting;
pregnancy resulting from IVF;
isthmic-cervical insufficiency;
acute infectious diseases - colds, flu, etc.;
exacerbation of chronic pathology (for example, cytomegalovirus, herpetic infection, etc.).

Of course, relative contraindications can sometimes turn into absolute contraindications under certain circumstances, especially if a woman has a risk of miscarriage as a result of these pathological conditions. If there are relative contraindications, the flight can be carried out in case of emergency. But, of course, it’s better not to take risks and either postpone the trip until after childbirth (if it’s, for example, a vacation) or use another type of transport.

Dangers of air travel - myth or truth

Many expectant mothers refuse to use an airplane because they have heard a lot about the risks associated with air travel during pregnancy in the second trimester. True, of course, only some of them. Most of the rest are myth. Undoubtedly, while on board, certain discomfort may arise due to various situations. The most common are:

Phenomena of stagnation that develop through prolonged sitting. Statistics say that expectant mothers have a much higher risk of thromboembolic complications (about 5 times) compared to other women. But if there is no predisposition to this phenomenon, as well as certain manifestations, then there is no need to worry.
Pressure changes. As you know, a pregnant woman is more sensitive to such changes. It is difficult to predict the body's reaction, but if there is cause for alarm, an ultrasound can be done. The main criterion by which readiness for childbirth is determined is the length of the cervix. If it is insufficient, then with a sharp increase in pressure there is a threat of miscarriage.
Radioactive radiation. The protective role of the atmosphere is to repel the cosmic reaction. It is safest to be approximately at sea level. When staying at altitude for a short time, the radiation dose received by objects is very small. Therefore, during pregnancy in the 2nd trimester, a one-time flight from this point of view can be considered quite safe.
Oxygen deficiency. The air at altitude and on the earth's surface differs in its parameters. But still, the decrease in oxygen concentration is not so pronounced as to affect the condition of the baby in the womb.

If the doctor observing you does not see objective reasons to prohibit flying on an airplane, only the woman herself must decide whether to fly or not.

Preparing for the flight

So, you have decided to fly in the second trimester of pregnancy because you feel great and do not see any obstacles to air travel. Despite this, you need to carefully prepare for the flight. To do this you need:

Make an unscheduled visit to the antenatal clinic. After the medical examination, ask if the doctor sees any contraindications for such a trip.
It is advisable to undergo general urine and blood tests to make sure that there are no various inflammatory processes, anemia, or toxicosis during the trip.
If necessary, do an ultrasound. This will help ensure that there is no increased tone, which may not always be noticeable during a manual examination at this time.
It is worth paying attention to the condition of the fetus - whether there is a delay in its development, hypoxia, whether the heartbeat is normal, to exclude the possibility of premature aging of the placenta or its presentation.
Some airlines do not allow expectant mothers to fly without a special certificate from a gynecologist, which indicates the duration of pregnancy, the health status of the woman and baby, the characteristics of pregnancy, and the presence of certain abnormalities. So be sure to take care of this in advance. Only a few companies allow pregnant women to fly without certificates.
For the duration of your planned trip, take out good insurance. Sometimes situations may arise in which emergency assistance will be necessary. Standard insurance rarely includes maternity care. Most often, this is insurance against injuries and accidents that may occur through no fault of your own. Be sure to choose a trusted insurance company and a separate policy where you decide to go. When planning a vacation, choose countries that can provide emergency medical care in a timely manner.

During air travel, follow the rules that will help make your stay on board an airplane easier:

When registering, ask to be given a comfortable seat, preferably close to the aisle. During pregnancy, urination is more frequent than in other women. Therefore, sitting near the aisle, you will not disturb anyone if you need to visit the toilet. It will also be possible to exit faster if nausea occurs.
To prevent blood thickening and stagnation, drink enough liquid - still, clean water. In addition, try to warm up more often by getting up from your seat periodically.
Avoid heavy foods from your diet during the flight.
Clothes should be moderately loose and comfortable, so as not to restrict movement, and made from natural fabrics. It is advisable to wear special tights, which improve blood circulation when worn. A travel pillow won't hurt - it can be used for maximum comfortable placement, neck and lumbar support.
Choose the most comfortable shoes so that your feet don’t get tired during the flight.
Be sure to fasten the seat belt loosely, under the stomach, to eliminate the possibility of pressure on the fetus.

By following these tips, you will be able to make your flight as comfortable as possible, without negative consequences or the risk of harming your health or your unborn child.

So, pregnancy and airplane flights in the 2nd trimester are quite compatible in the absence of contraindications. It is this gestation period (14-27 weeks) that is the safest for such trips. During this period, the belly is still small, toxicosis has already passed, and the threat of premature birth of the baby is minimal. It is advisable to refrain from flying during the period 18-22 weeks, because this is when there is a high risk of miscarriage. The rest of the time in the 2nd trimester, you can safely plan an air trip. Before traveling, thoroughly study all the risks, consult with your doctor and make a decision about which transport and where to go.

In most cases, air travel does not have a negative impact on pregnancy, unless there are chronic diseases and. An unfavorable time for travel is considered to be the first trimester, when the likelihood is increased, and the third, when the risk of placental abruption and premature birth is increased. Recent studies have proven that in the absence of complications, you can fly on an airplane at any stage of pregnancy. It must be remembered that every woman’s pregnancy progresses differently, so it is important to consult with the supervising doctor before the flight.

Is it dangerous to fly by plane in the first weeks of pregnancy?

In some cases, doctors recommend not to fly in the first trimester of pregnancy, since at this time hormonal changes occur in the woman’s body. During the flight, the likelihood of feeling unwell and fatigue increases, and headaches often occur. According to many gynecologists, air travel during the first trimester can be one of the factors that can cause. A multi-hour flight can worsen the condition, and pressure changes during takeoff and landing can negatively affect the fetus, and experts believe that it is better to refrain from them. However, there is no convincing research on the dangers of air travel during this period.

What are the dangers of pressure changes during takeoff and landing?

Rapid changes in atmospheric pressure during takeoff and landing cause a sharp contraction of blood vessels, which can negatively affect the fetus, and in severe cases even cause placental abruption. Low atmospheric pressure in an airplane cabin at high altitude can cause hypoxia: the lower the pressure, the worse the blood supply with oxygen. This increases the risk of oxygen starvation of the body tissues, and therefore the fetus. If pregnancy proceeds normally, short-term hypoxic effects usually do not cause harm, but may worsen the condition - therefore, if long air travel is necessary, it is better to abstain from them or consult with your doctor.

Why do you often get a runny nose on an airplane?

Due to the ventilation system, the air on the plane is quite dry, and the nasal mucosa, which is especially prone to swelling during pregnancy, can dry out, creating a feeling of stuffiness. It is possible that a pregnant woman will develop a runny nose or sore throat on the plane. If you moisturize the air and face with a spray of mineral water, drink enough fluids and use vasoconstrictor nasal drops, dry air is easier to bear. For allergic rhinitis, doctors recommend that pregnant women take an antihistamine before flying to reduce discomfort from pressure changes during takeoff and landing. The medicine helps relieve swelling of the mucous membrane and smoothly equalize pressure in the nasal cavity and ear, reduces the effect of ear congestion. However, there are a lot of medications in this class, so you should consult your doctor about their choice.

Can air travel cause varicose veins to worsen?

Varicose veins are a common problem during pregnancy. Sudden changes in atmospheric pressure, especially during takeoff and landing, can cause poor blood circulation and contraction of blood vessels, which, in turn, aggravates the manifestations of varicose veins - especially if the pregnancy is threatening miscarriage and the woman is taking hormonal medications.

Until what period is air travel safe for pregnant women?

Previously, it was believed that during a normal pregnancy, without complications, traveling by plane is safe until 33–34 weeks (up to 32 weeks), if this does not contradict the rules of the chosen airline. Recent studies have shown that flying is safe at any stage of uncomplicated pregnancy, provided that general precautions are taken and recommendations are followed: the woman avoids immobility and cramped conditions, and drinks enough fluids.

Can an airline refuse to allow a pregnant woman to board a plane?

According to the internal rules of many airlines, a woman after 30 weeks may be asked to present an exchange card and a doctor’s certificate of satisfactory health indicating the stage of pregnancy when checking in for a flight. She may also be asked to sign a guarantee agreement, which stipulates that the airline is not responsible for possible adverse consequences. Aeroflot requires such a certificate for a period exceeding 36 weeks.

What should I do to make the flight comfortable?

Sometimes a woman’s well-being can worsen due to nervousness: tension can cause uterine hypertonicity and headaches. It is better to carefully consider the choice of flight: the schedule of regular flights is more predictable than charter flights; they are less likely to be canceled or rescheduled. When checking in for a flight, you can ask for a seat in the first row or next to the emergency exits, where there is more space. There is more turbulence at the end of the cabin, and this too should not be overlooked. Staying in one position for a long time can cause swelling of the legs, pain in the lower back and neck. A woman can avoid this by walking around the salon or changing her position in the chair more often. It is better to avoid large crowds of people; it is recommended to board the plane closer to the end of the announced landing. Many airlines offer an individual pre-booking service, and this is worth taking advantage of. If a flight is necessary, it is better to use business class services.

What to do if labor starts on an airplane?

There are known cases of successful births during a flight. If labor begins when the flight is about to end, the crew contacts the arrival city dispatcher, and the woman is taken straight from the ramp to . As a rule, flight attendants accompanying a flight are trained in first aid, and in the event of a rapid labor, they will be able to help a woman give birth to a child right on board the plane. Still, it is necessary to remember the possible risks, so the Ministry of Health and most obstetricians and gynecologists strongly recommend against air travel beyond 36 weeks.