Share
7th May 2024
03:29pm BST
Do I need a scan before I fly? Is it safe for me to be on a plane at this point in my pregnancy? Does flying heighten my risk of miscarriage?
The list of questions goes on and on.
Most women can travel safely while pregnant, according to the HSE, and flying does not increase your risk of early labour or miscarriage.
Here is everything you need to know if you’re planning a trip by plane in the midst of your pregnancy.
Flying may not be recommended if you:
Long-haul flights - anything over 4 hours - can be more uncomfortable as opposed to short haul flights.
There is also a higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (clots in the legs) on long-haul flights.
Here are a few things you should check before arranging flights, according to the HSE:
If you’re travelling after 28 weeks, the airline you are with may ask for a letter from your doctor or midwife confirming your due date.
This is to make sure you are not at risk of complications.
Many airlines do not allow women to fly after 37 weeks, so make sure you check before booking.
Before you book, it’s highly recommended that you find out if there is a maternity hospital close to your destination.
You should also know if there are facilities for premature babies in the event of premature labour.
Check that your travel insurance covers you while pregnant. This includes if you need to be admitted to hospital abroad or have other associated costs.
For example, you may have to stay in hospital for several weeks if you develop ruptured membranes or threatened pre-term labour.
You may also not be able to fly for a period of time after discharge from hospital.
If you’re travelling to Europe, get a European Health Insurance Card.
It is free and allows you to get free access to public health services in:
Talk to your GP or obstetrician if you are travelling to a place which requires vaccinations.
Make sure you get the correct vaccinations needed for risk areas.
Make sure you bring:
Concerns you may have include:
You will have to go through all of the usual security checks at the airport. Rest assured, the HSE states that walking through the security scanner is not harmful for you or your baby.
Anyone who flies is exposed to a slight increase in radiation. Occasional flights do not put you or your baby at risk.
Speak to your manager or occupational health department if you:
Your risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is increased when pregnant.
DVT is a blood clot that can form in your leg and can be very dangerous.
This is more likely to happen in flights over 4 hours (long-haul flights).
To reduce your risk and help your circulation:
If you have other risk factors, an injection of heparin (blood thinners) may be recommended.
