Air Travel During Pregnancy

BY ABHISHEK JAGUESSAR

Air Travel During Pregnancy

Air travel is safe for most pregnant women up to 36 weeks gestation,. In the absence of obstetric or medical complications, pregnant women can observe the same basic precautions for air travel as the general population does,.

according to a new committee opinion issued by The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG).

 Welcome to the 21st century According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, air travel is usually safe for the majority of pregnant women, although each individual should consult with her own obstetrician before making any air travel plans.

The safest time for a pregnant woman to travel

is during the second trimester (18 through 24 weeks of pregnancy), when she feels her best and is in least danger of premature labor or miscarriage

Air Travel During Pregnancy should be avoided.

Travel is not recommended at any time during pregnancy for women who have either medical or obstetric complications -such as pregnancy-induced hypertension, poorly controlled diabetes, or sickle cell disease,. twins, severe nausea, placenta previa, and other pregnancy-related complications should not fly." ACOG also advises against air travel by pregnant women at significant risk for

 Wear loose, non-restrictive clothing; Wear compression stockings to promote blood flow from your ankles to your heart and lungs. Remember to put them on before your flight, while lying in bed, and to wear them all day; Don't cross your legs during the flight; Drink plenty of water. Air flights may cause dehydration, which thickens the blood; Exercise. Walk in the aisle, stretch your legs and wiggle your toes.

 environmental conditions associated with flying such as low cabin humidity and changes in cabin pressure, may result in an increased heart rate, increased blood pressure and a significant decrease in breathing capabilities in pregnant women with a weakened cardiovascular system.

Pregnant women, as well as all air travelers, may take special precautions to minimize risks
wearing support stockings and periodically moving the lower legs (Sitting or standing, stretch your leg, heel first, and gently flex your foot to stretch your calf muscles. When you're sitting, rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes. ) to allow for proper blood circulation. To ease in-flight discomfort, pregnant women should avoid gaseous foods and drinks before flying. Because air turbulence cannot be predicted and the risk for trauma is significant, continuous use of seat belts while seated is highly recommended