Can a pregnant woman travel by plane? The answer is that each case needs special observation. In general, travel is safe until the third trimester of pregnancy, but there are special precautions women can take to reduce risks during flights.
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Airlines may require pregnant women to present a medical certificate authorizing travel before boarding, especially from the 30th week of pregnancy or in cases of multiple or high-risk pregnancies.
Of course, pregnant women already suffer from vascular problems such as edema and varicose veins, and they are also in a risk group for blood clots, which can occur, for example, due to pressure on the blood vessels caused by the expansion of the uterus, which makes the blood more likely to clot. In the air, this danger can be made worse by staying for long hours without moving.
According to obstetrician Nelio Vega Jr., it is best to avoid traveling by plane after the 34th week of pregnancy.
It is also a good idea to avoid this type of travel if there is a risk of bleeding, risk of premature birth, and uncontrolled high blood pressure.
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Moving around during the flight, wearing comfortable clothing, maintaining adequate hydration, avoiding excessive caffeine intake, and wearing graduated compression stockings on the lower extremities are the main medical recommendations for air travel. According to vascular surgeon Allen Lamita, staying still for a long time without moving your legs can reduce the speed of blood within the vessels.
There are other factors that contribute to the development of the problem, such as cabin pressure and air conditioning, which may cause dehydration, thus increasing blood viscosity. To avoid this condition, it is necessary to walk in the aisle of the plane and do simple exercises – explains the doctor, who states that the pregnant woman’s doctor may prescribe anticoagulants in some cases.
There are simple exercises that can be done even on an airplane seat. For example, a pregnant woman can start by placing her feet on the floor, then raise her heels while keeping her toes on the floor, and remain in this position for a few seconds. Next, you can place your heels on the floor and lift your toes, hold for a few seconds and repeat the stretch.
— Another great exercise is to draw circles with your feet for a few seconds, changing the direction from outside to inside and from inside to outside, explains the specialist.