June 24, 2013

Flying

As I will be taking a short trip late in my pregnancy I started looking up what possible restrictions were....



Going through security - metal detectors which produces an electromagnetic field are considered safe for everyone including pregnant women. The new body scan machines emit the same type of radiation that an x-ray machine such as at the dentists office would and these are much more controversial. No long term studies have been done on them since they are so new. To play it safe if you are chosen to go through the body scanner I would opt to have a pat down or the use of one of the hand held metal detectors instead.

For domestic travel - while each airline has different rules on when you can and cannot travel I have surprisingly found that most of them will let you travel up until your 38th week! Some companies will not allow you on if you are within 30 days of your due date though so be sure to check before booking any tickets. Make sure to visit your doctor  a few days before your flight so that you can get a note from him/her stating that it is safe for you to fly and what your estimated due date is and that you are not likely to go into labor within the next 72 hours.

If you have a condition or complication such as diabetes, high blood pressure, placental abnormalities, any bleeding or you are under observation for preterm labor, or you are carrying multiples it would be in your best interest to postpone any travel plans!

Make sure to make your flight as comfortable as possible by drinking lots of fluids (WATER!), choose a seat with optimal leg room, wear comfortable/loose clothing, try to not cross your legs and wear your safety belt below your abdomen.


1 comment:

Mom H. said...

So, loose/comfortable clothing might be actual maternity clothes? Maternity dresses are even more comfortable, especially in hot weather....just sayin' :)