How long can you travel by plane during pregnancy?
Traveling during pregnancy is one of the most common concerns among expectant mothers, especially when a getaway, business trip, or vacation is coming up. The good news is that, if the pregnancy is progressing normally, flying is usually safe for most of the gestation period.
Dr. Sebastián Sessa, gynecologist at the Women's Unit of the Ruber International Hospital, explains up to what week of pregnancy you can travel by plane and what recommendations you should follow to do so with complete peace of mind.
Until what week can you travel by plane during pregnancy?
As a general rule, a woman with a single, uncomplicated pregnancy can travel by plane until the 36th week of pregnancy.
In the case of a twin pregnancy , this limit is usually around week 32 , although it will always depend on the evolution of each pregnancy and the assessment of the obstetrician.
These recommendations are guidelines and should always be individualized according to each woman's clinical situation.
Most importantly: consult with your obstetrician
Before organizing a plane trip during pregnancy, it is essential to have the approval of the gynecologist or obstetrician responsible for monitoring.
Not all pregnancies are the same. There are situations in which flying may be inadvisable, such as:
- Threat of premature labor.
- Bleeding during pregnancy.
- Hypertension or preeclampsia.
- Alterations in fetal growth.
- Pregnancies considered high risk.
- Other maternal pathologies that require specific monitoring.
Therefore, medical advice should always take precedence over any travel planning.
Pay attention to each airline's rules.
Although from a medical point of view it is possible to travel up to certain weeks of pregnancy, it is important to remember that each airline sets its own policies.
Some airlines restrict the transport of pregnant women from a certain number of weeks onwards, while others require a medical certificate to authorize the flight.
Before buying tickets, it is advisable to check the specific conditions of the airline to avoid unforeseen problems.
Tips for long flights during pregnancy
If the trip involves several hours of flight, there are some simple recommendations that help improve comfort and reduce certain risks associated with pregnancy.
Get up and walk around frequently
Sitting for many hours promotes swelling and hinders venous return.
It is recommended to get up approximately every two or three hours , walk for a few minutes in the airplane aisle and do small stretches whenever possible.
Use compression stockings
During pregnancy, venous circulation in the legs is often more compromised.
For this reason, the use of compression stockings is especially recommended on long flights, as they promote venous return and help reduce the feeling of heaviness and swelling.
Stay well hydrated
The airplane cabin usually has a dry environment, so it is important to drink water frequently during the flight and avoid unnecessary dehydration.
Travel in comfort
Wearing loose clothing, comfortable shoes, and a properly positioned seat belt—below the abdomen and adjusted over the pelvis—will make the trip much more comfortable and safe.
When is it best to avoid traveling?
Although there is no general prohibition, the specialist may recommend against traveling if there are obstetric complications or risk factors that increase the likelihood of premature birth or any other incident during the trip.
Therefore, travel planning should always be done on an individual basis and after consulting with the medical team.
The key: travel safely and with peace of mind.
In a normal pregnancy, air travel is usually perfectly compatible with an active lifestyle. Prior planning, following your obstetrician's recommendations, and taking a few simple precautions during the flight allow you to enjoy a more comfortable and safe trip.
As Dr. Sebastián Sessa reminds us, every pregnancy is different. If you have any questions, the best advice is always to consult with the specialist monitoring your pregnancy.