Pregnant: our advice for flying

Pregnancy and plane: check with the airline

Most airlines accept pregnant women until 7th month, even up to the 8th month. This is the case with Air France, if the pregnancy proceeds normally. This company even welcomes future mothers who are in their 9th month, provided they have a medical agreement issued by their own medical service. Beware, however, of low-cost companies who are sometimes very picky, for fear of an accident in flight. Check the transport conditions on their website. In all cases, it is advisable to have a medical certificate non-contraindication specifying the term of pregnancy. Most airlines ask for it. Another point, make you specify the conditions of cancellation of the tickets.

Airplane and pregnancy: consult your doctor

Before preparing your trip, ask your doctor for advice, even if your pregnancy is progressing normally. Only he can assess with certainty the absence of contraindications to your project. He will also draw up the necessary medical certificate and, if necessary, prescribe medication to prevent travel discomfort.

Traveling by plane while pregnant: contact your insurance

Check with your insurance that it covers pregnant women and that you benefit from a repatriation insurance. Also remember to take your medical file.

Plane & pregnancy: the day before, watch out for food

Avoid foods that are poorly digested (pulses, carbonated drinks, too fatty dishes, etc.). Eat light because the gases contained in the digestive tract dilate at altitude. You could encounter digestive disorders: aerophagia, spasms …

Flying when pregnant: wear comfortable clothes

Plan for loose clothing in which you will be comfortable. Likewise, avoid high shoes that are too tight. Also remember to bring something warm because the temperature is often low on planes. Do not hesitate to ask the hostess for a small blanket.

Airplane and pregnancy: seat belts are not an option

When taking off, landing and whenever a member of the crew requests it, you, like the other passengers, must put your seatbelt. To avoid being too compressed, tie it under the belly, at the level of the pubis. For more comfort, you can also slip a small pad between your stomach and the belt strap. Finally, once you’ve taken off, recline your seat.

Plane and pregnancy: beware of heavy legs

The aircraft, or rather the pressurization and air conditioning, promote dilation of blood vessels already abused during pregnancy. To avoid the unpleasant feeling of heavy legs and the risk of phlebitis as much as possible, get up from your seat often and take a few steps in the hallway. When checking baggage, also remember to ask for a place near the emergency exits (to extend your legs) and rather on the aisle side (to move more easily). Finally, if you have a history of phlebitis and / or the flight is long enough, wear compression stockings.

Airplane and pregnancy: good hydration

The ambient air is so dry that you will have to to drink a lot of water so you don’t get dehydrated. Drinking water is also a good way to prevent circulation problems.