Are you expecting a baby but are craving a holiday and need an answer to the all important question, can I fly when pregnant? Of course, it’s always important to consult your midwife before planning a holiday to ensure it is 100% safe for you, but here’s some things to consider!
How Many Weeks Pregnant Is It Safe To Fly?
If you have been wondering ‘can I fly when I’m pregnant’ then don’t worry, we’ve got all the answers! In the early stages of pregnancy, it is safe and easy to fly abroad to enjoy a holiday! The closer you get to your due date, things become a little more tricky to ensure the safety of you and your baby.
But how until many weeks pregnant can you fly? From week 28, the airline may ask for a letter from your doctor or midwife confirming your due date, and that you aren’t at risk of complications. This letter can be quite difficult to get hold of, and your doctor or midwife isn’t obliged to give you a fit to fly letter.
Flying when pregnant when you are close to your due date can also cause complications as babies come whenever they are ready! If you fly too close to when you’re expecting to give birth, you run the risk of going into labour during the flight, which would certainly be a memorable birth but maybe not an ideal one.
Can I Take Any Medication With Me?
Yes! As with all medications, provided you carry them in the correct containers and bring your prescription with you just in case, travelling with your pregnancy medication should be easy.
If your medication comes in liquid form, make sure to put this in your hand luggage inside a clear bag to comply with the liquids policy. When going through security, officers may ask you a couple of questions about your medication if they feel it necessary. This is nothing to worry about, and be prepared with answers to common questions around your pregnancy.
Where Is Good To Go?
There are plenty of destinations on the ‘good to go’ list for expecting mums, so don’t worry about not having much choice! Flights longer than four hours carry a small risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT), so look for some sunny spots that are a little closer to home.
Destinations like Greece, Spain, Balearic Islands and Portugal are just some of the gloriously sunny spots you can expect to enjoy. During the flight, drink plenty of water and move about regularly, every 30 minutes or so. You can also buy a pair of graduated compression or support stockings from the pharmacy, which will help reduce leg swelling.
When you arrive in resort, you want to ensure to pick a super relaxing resort so you can put your feet up and enjoy the peace and quiet while you can!
Where Can’t I Go?
Certain destinations are not deemed as safe to travel to when you are pregnant. This is for many reasons but usually based around infectious diseases that could cause harm to yourself or your baby. Some holiday destinations require you to have a vaccination before travel. As with many vaccines, ones required for travel are usually live vaccines, and these are not recommended for pregnant women.
You should also avoid travelling to areas where there is a risk of catching a mosquito-borne disease, such as malaria, dengue or zika. Destinations such as Cape Verde, Asia and Africa are best to be avoided due to the risk of disease.
The standard of medical care available to you in developing countries may be low. So if you become ill, or if you have an existing complication with your pregnancy that needs to be treated while you’re away, there may be a risk to you or your baby’s health.
Benefits Of Travelling When Pregnant
Pregnancy is definitely a time when you deserve all the rest and relaxation you can get, and travelling abroad is a great way to enjoy some ‘me time’. During your second trimester, your morning sickness should have eased, and your bump is unlikely to be causing too much discomfort just yet. Your energy levels will be on the up and you’ll have that pregnancy glow, making weeks 14 – 27 the perfect time to plan a holiday.
If you’re expecting your first child, your holiday is likely to be the last getaway that you and your partner will enjoy together before welcoming your new addition. This is a great opportunity to enjoy each other’s company before your family grows even bigger.
How To Stay Comfortable When Pregnant On Holiday
Wherever you visit, check that the climate won’t be too hot while you are there. Pregnancy skin can be sensitive and more prone to prickly heat, burning and itchiness. It’s normal to feel hotter during pregnancy too, as your body temperature is higher.
Cool and loose clothing is a must when going abroad while pregnant to ensure you’re comfortable and don’t overheat. Bringing a sun hat or cap and sunglasses is also very important for the sunshine.
It goes without saying, sun cream should be at the top of your packing list, and plenty of it! After-sun may also be helpful in case you do catch the sun, and cooling sprays can also be a great way to keep your body temperature down.
All Inclusive holidays are a great choice for expecting mums, as drinks are on tap all day long! Sadly you won’t be able to work your way through the cocktail list but you can keep topped up on fresh juices, water and soft drinks. There are a number of foods you should avoid during your pregnancy, and the same goes when you’re on holiday. Where possible, avoid fruit that you haven’t washed and cut yourself, and ensure all utensils, plates and cups look clean before use.
Bottled water is always advised to anyone when travelling due to the risk of contaminated water and this is extra important for pregnant mums. When brushing your teeth, it’s better to use bottled water to rinse your mouth and when ordering a drink, avoid asking for ice as you can’t confirm if this has been made with clean water.
Enjoy Your Babymoon!
Get ready to jet off on your perfect babymoon before welcoming your new addition into the world. Whether you’re looking for a last minute getaway or a luxury escape, we’re sure to help you find an idyllic holiday.
If you have any concerns, it is very important to consult your doctor, midwife or airline before travel.
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