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Is it safe to fly during pregnancy?

Generally, air travel before 36 weeks of pregnancy is considered safe for people who aren't dealing with any pregnancy problems. Still, if you're pregnant, it's a good idea to talk with your health care provider before you fly.

Your provider might suggest that you not fly if you have certain pregnancy complications that could get worse because of air travel or that could require emergency care. Examples include a history of miscarriage or vaginal bleeding, severe anemia, and high blood pressure or diabetes that's not well controlled. If you had preeclampsia during a previous pregnancy — a condition that causes high blood pressure and extra protein in urine — flying may not be advised. The same is true if you're pregnant with twins or other multiples.

Tell your provider how far you are flying, as the length of the flight might make a difference. Also, be aware that some airlines may not allow pregnant people on international flights. Check with your airline before you make travel arrangements.

After 36 weeks of pregnancy, your health care provider may advise against flying. And some airlines don't allow pregnant people to fly after 36 weeks. The airline also may require a letter from your health care provider that states how far along in your pregnancy you are and whether flying is advised.

If your health care provider says it's okay for you to fly, and your plans are flexible, the best time to travel by air might be during the second trimester. The risks of common pregnancy emergencies are lowest during that time.

When you fly:

• Buckle up. During the trip, keep your seatbelt fastened when you are seated, and secure it under your belly.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Low humidity in the airplane could cause you to become dehydrated.
• Avoid gassy foods and drinks before you fly. Gases expand during flight, and that could make you uncomfortable. Examples of foods and drinks to avoid include broccoli and carbonated soda.
• Think about medical care. Plan for how you'll get obstetric care during your trip if you need it. Bring copies of your medical information in case you need care while you're away.

Blood clots

Air travel can raise the risk for blood clots in the legs, a condition called venous thrombosis. The risk is higher for pregnant people. Moving your legs may help prevent this problem. Take a walk up and down the aisle every hour during the flight. If you must remain seated, flex and extend your ankles from time to time. In general, it's best to avoid tightfitting clothing, as that can hinder blood flow. Wearing compression stockings can help with blood circulation during a long flight.

Radiation exposure linked to air travel at high altitudes isn't thought to be a problem for most people who fly during pregnancy. But pilots, flight attendants and others who fly often might be exposed to a level of radiation that raises concerns during pregnancy. If you must fly frequently during your pregnancy, talk about it with your health care provider.

Mary Marnach, M.D.

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• Allergy medications during pregnancy
• AskMayoExpert. Health considerations for air travelers: Pregnancy considerations. Mayo Clinic; 2022.
• Air Travel During Pregnancy: ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 746. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/08/air-travel-during-pregnancy. Accessed Dec. 1, 2022.
• Ram S, et al. Air travel during pregnancy and the risk of venous thrombosis. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2022; doi:10.1016/j.ajogmf.2022.100751.

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Here Are the Rules for Flying When You're Pregnant

Whether you're newly pregnant or planning a babymoon right before welcoming your baby, here's what parents-to-be need to know about airline travel during each trimester.

Expectant parents need to know: Can you fly when pregnant?

While it's mostly OK to travel until the last few weeks of pregnancy, there are some precautions to take depending on when you decide to book a trip and how high risk your pregnancy is. Here's what you need to know before your next vacation.

Pregnancy and Flying: Your Trimester by Trimester Guide

As a general rule of thumb, most airlines will allow pregnant people to fly right up until week 36 of pregnancy, but you should absolutely do your research before booking your flight to check restrictions. You'll also want to consult with your OB-GYN or midwife before traveling—especially if you're at a higher risk for complications during pregnancy.

GETTY IMAGES

Before you travel

While you may be accustomed to planning a vacation on a whim or only packing your usual necessities, there's one extra thing you should consider doing before booking a flight during your pregnancy: Opt for travel insurance.

Should travel restrictions change, your health care provider recommends you stay home, or if you experience any concerning symptoms —like bleeding, abdominal pain, swelling, headaches, vision changes, or decreased fetal movement—you'll want to postpone or cancel your plans and see your doctor as soon as possible.

According to the ACOG, travel is not recommended for pregnant people with certain complications like preeclampsia, premature rupture of membranes (PROM), or who are at risk of preterm labor.

First trimester

Flying earlier on in pregnancy is actually considered pretty safe. And, no, metal detectors won't harm your fetus.

"Pregnant women can observe the same basic precautions for air travel as the general public," Raul Artal, M.D., former vice chairman of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Committee on Obstetric Practice, previously told Parents .

One thing pregnant air travelers should take extra precautions to avoid at any trimester? Blood clots, which pregnant people are 7 times more likely to develop—especially during long flights. To help minimize your risk, you can book an aisle seat, walk around every so often, and wiggle your legs and toes while seated.

And since morning sickness and fatigue might be your biggest first trimester complaints, you may want to check with your health care provider about bringing anti-nausea medicine with you.

Second trimester

According to the ACOG, "The best time to travel is mid-pregnancy (14 to 28 weeks). During these weeks, your energy has returned, morning sickness is improved or gone, and you are still able to get around easily. After 28 weeks , it may be harder to move around or sit for a long time."

If you're flying during your second trimester, it's a good idea to stay hydrated, think about wearing support stockings to reduce edema and clot risk, and make sure you've done your research on hospitals located near your destination should an emergency arise.

Carrying twins or more? Your health care provider might recommend you stop traveling earlier due to the higher risk of complications.

Third trimester

How late in pregnancy can you fly? If you're relatively healthy—and not at risk of complications like preterm labor, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or placenta previa—then you're usually OK to travel up until 36 weeks, though some OB-GYNs may prefer you stay closer to your home near the end should you encounter any complications or in case your baby comes sooner than expected.

High-risk patients—and especially those with pregnancy-induced hypertension, diabetes, and sickle-cell disease—may be advised not to fly after 24 weeks—or not at all.

Check with your doctor before traveling at the end of your pregnancy.

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Safety of Air Travel During Pregnancy

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Pregnancy was once seen as something that sent women to their homes once their bellies began to protrude (hence the term "confinement"). It was not considered appropriate for pregnant people to be seen in public.

Nowadays pregnancy rarely changes schedules, with the exception of high-risk pregnancies or other complications. People usually can continue their normal lives for the duration of the pregnancy, with minor exceptions (like knowing where all the bathrooms are!). Travel is no exception.

Travel is becoming more prevalent as families move further and further apart. Traveling for holidays, or as the last trip to see the family before the baby comes, or as a last romantic vacation, is not unusual. This includes out of the country travel and often air travel.

The Science on Pregnancy and Air Travel

For ethical reasons, there are not many studies on air travel and miscarriage rates. One 2015 study showed a slight increase in first-trimester miscarriage for flight attendants, but this was often associated with high physical job demands and disruptions to their sleep cycles.

In-flight radiation is also a slight risk for flight attendants. An estimated 2% of flight attendants are exposed to a solar particle event during their pregnancies, although the amount of radiation varies by length of time in the air, the routes flown, and so on. However, the risk to the average flier is negligible. The average 10-hour flight only exposes fliers to 0.05 mSv of radiation, or 1/1000th of the limit set by the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Precautions for Air Travel During Pregnancy

Flying is fairly safe while pregnant, even for flight attendants, with some minor adjustments. There are, however, some issues to bear in mind if you are pregnant and considering multiple, frequent, or very long flights:

• Air travel is extremely dehydrating. You'll need to drink a lot of water while in the air.
• Air travel requires that you sit still for long periods. If you're likely to experience cramps or other pregnancy-associated issues, you may be quite uncomfortable.
• Airplanes are not equipped to handle in-air birth or pregnancy-related complications . Even if your airline permits travel, you may simply be smarter to stay on the ground if you're close to giving birth or are experiencing any pregnancy-related issues.

There are some precautions that a pregnant traveler should consider:

• Talk to your practitioner before flying. If you are more than 36 weeks pregnant, many airlines will not let you fly for fear that you'll deliver on board.
• Try to do the majority of your traveling in the second trimester . Not only will you be more comfortable, but in general the risks of miscarriage and preterm labor are lower.
• Avoid excessive flying. Although there are no hard and fast numbers, one study found that flight attendants with higher miscarriage rates flew on average 74 hours per month.
• Make comfort arrangements. Try to get seats with more legroom, plan to walk in the aisles, anticipate bathroom breaks, and bring water.
• Avoid travel to countries that would require immunizations that you don't already have or are that are not considered safe for pregnancy. Talk to your practitioner for more info on immunizations during pregnancy, as some immunizations are considered appropriate while pregnant.
• Because pregnant people are more vulnerable to COVID-19, you may wish to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly to high-risk areas.

So remember, flying is not contraindicated in an uncomplicated pregnancy, but use your common sense and speak to your practitioner about your travel plans.

Grajewski B, Whelan EA, Lawson CC, et al. Miscarriage among flight attendants . Epidemiology . 2015;26(2):192-203. doi:10.1097/EDE.0000000000000225

Hezelgrave NL, Whitty CJM, Shennan AH, Chappell LC. Advising on travel during pregnancy . BMJ. 2011;342:d2506. doi:10.1136/bmj.d2506

Zubac D, Stella AB, Morrison SA. Up in the air: Evidence of dehydration risk and long-haul flight on athletic performance . Nutrients . 2020;12(9):2574-2589. doi:10.3390/nu12092574

Cone JE, Vaughan LM, Huete A, Samuels S. Reproductive health outcomes among female flight attendants: An exploratory study . J Occup Environ Med. 1998;40(3):210-216.

Ellington S, Strid P, Tong VT, et al. Characteristics of women of reproductive age with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection by pregnancy status — United States, January 22–June 7, 2020 . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2020;69(25):769-775. doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm6925a1

By Robin Elise Weiss, PhD, MPH Robin Elise Weiss, PhD, MPH is a professor, author, childbirth and postpartum educator, certified doula, and lactation counselor.

Air travel and pregnancy

Published: May 2015

Please note that this information will be reviewed every 3 years after publication.

Updated: May 2022

This information is for you if you are pregnant and are thinking of travelling by air.

This information is for you if you are pregnant and are thinking of travelling by air. It may also be helpful if you are a partner, relative or friend of someone in this difficult situation.

The information is relevant for short haul (under four hours), medium and long haul (over four hours) flights.

If you are a member of a flight crew or you fly frequently as part of your work, you should seek additional advice from your occupational health department concerning your own situation.

The information here aims to help you better understand your health and your options for treatment and care. Your healthcare team is there to support you in making decisions that are right for you. They can help by discussing your situation with you and answering your questions.

Within this information we may use the terms ‘woman’ and ‘women’. However, it is not only people who identify as women who may want to access this information. Your care should be personalised, inclusive and sensitive to your needs whatever your gender identity.

A glossary of medical terms is available at  A-Z of medical terms .

• Occasional air travel during pregnancy is not harmful for you or your baby as long as you are having an uncomplicated pregnancy
• Long flights may increase your chance of developing a blood clot. There are things you can do to reduce your chance of this happening.
• It is important to check the healthcare facilities that are available at your destination, in case you need any emergency care.

If your pregnancy is straightforward, flying is not harmful for you or your baby:

• If you have a straightforward pregnancy and are healthy, there is no evidence that the changes in air pressure and/or the decrease in humidity have a harmful effect on you or your baby.
• There is no evidence that flying will cause miscarriage, early labour or your waters to break.

Anyone who flies is exposed to a slight increase in radiation. Occasional flights are not considered to present a risk to you or your baby

When you are pregnant, the safest time to fly is:

• Before 37 weeks, if you are carrying one baby. From 37 weeks of pregnancy you could go into labour at any time, which is why many women choose not to fly after this time.
• Before 32 weeks, if you are carrying an uncomplicated twin pregnancy.

It is important to know that most obstetric emergencies happen in the first and third trimester .

Most airlines do not allow women to fly after 37 weeks. It is important that you check with your airline before flying. It may also be more difficult to get travel insurance after 37 weeks.

Some pregnant women may experience discomfort during flying. You may have:

• swelling of your legs due to fluid retention (oedema)
• nasal congestion/problems with your ears – during pregnancy you are more likely to have a blocked nose and, combined with this, the changes in air pressure in the plane can also cause you to experience problems in your ears
• pregnancy sickness – if you experience motion sickness during the flight, it can make your sickness worse.

A DVT is a blood clot that forms in your leg or pelvis. If it travels to your lungs (pulmonary embolism) it can be life threatening. When you are pregnant and for up to six weeks after the birth of your baby, you have a higher risk of developing a DVT compared with women who are not pregnant (for more information please see the RCOG patient information Reducing the risk of venous thrombosis in pregnancy and after birth.

There is an increased risk of developing a DVT while flying, due to sitting for a prolonged length of time. The risk of a DVT increases with the length of the flight. Your risk is also increased if you have additional risk factors such as a previous DVT or you are overweight. Your midwife or doctor will be able to check your individual risk.

If you are taking a short haul flight (less than four hours), it is unlikely that you will need to take any special measures. Your midwife or doctor should give you an individual risk assessment for venous thrombosis and advice for your own situation.

To minimise the risk of a DVT on a medium or a long haul flight (over four hours), you should:

• wear loose clothing and comfortable shoes
• try to get an aisle seat and take regular walks around the plane
• do in-seat exercises every 30 minutes or so – the airline should give you information on these
• have cups of water at regular intervals throughout your flight
• cut down on drinks that contain alcohol or caffeine (coffee, fizzy drinks)
• wear graduated elastic compression stockings – your midwife or doctor will need to provide the correct size and type for you as they are different from standard flight socks.

If you have other risk factors for a DVT, regardless of the length of your flight, you may be advised to have heparin injections. These will thin your blood and help prevent a DVT. A heparin injection should be taken on the day of the flight and daily for a few days afterward. For security reasons, you will need a letter from your doctor to enable you to carry these injections onto the plane.

Low-dose aspirin does not appear to reduce the risk of a DVT but you should continue to take it if it has been prescribed for another reason.

A medical condition or health problem can complicate your pregnancy and put you and your baby at risk. For this reason, if any of the following apply, you may be advised not to fly:

• You are at increased risk of going into labour before your due date.
• You have severe anaemia. This is when the level of red blood cells in your blood is lower than normal. Red blood cells contain the iron-rich pigment haemoglobin, which carries oxygen around your body.
• You have sickle cell disease (a condition which affects red blood cells) and you have recently had a sickle crisis.
• You have recently had significant vaginal bleeding.
• You have a serious condition affecting your lungs or heart that makes it very difficult for you to breathe.

It is important that you discuss any health issues or pregnancy complications with your midwife or doctor before you fly. If have an increased chance of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, ask for an ultrasound scan for reassurance before you fly.

Be aware that the unexpected can happen while travelling which could delay your return home. Some airlines may not allow you to fly if you have fractured a bone, have a middle ear or a sinus infection or have recently had surgery to your abdomen that involved your bowel, such as having your appendix removed.

To help decide whether or not to fly, think about your own medical history and any increased risks that you may have. The following questions may also help you in making your decision:

• Why do you want to fly at this particular time?
• Is your flight necessary?
• How long is your flight? Will this increase your risk of medical problems?
• Your chance of going into labour is higher the further you are in pregnancy.
• It is also important to remember that having a miscarriage, whether you fly or not, is common (one in five) in the first three months of pregnancy.
• What are the medical facilities at your destination in the event of an unexpected complication with your pregnancy?
• Have you had all the relevant immunisations and/or medication for the country you are travelling to? Have you checked with your doctor about how these affect your pregnancy?
• Does your travel insurance cover pregnancy and/or care for your newborn baby if you give birth unexpectedly? There is huge variation among airlines and travel insurance policies so it is worth checking before you decide to fly.
• Have you discussed your travel plans with your midwife and informed them that you are thinking about taking a medium or long haul flight?
• If you are over 28 weeks pregnant, your airline may ask you to get a letter from your midwife or doctor stating when your baby is due and confirming that you are in good health, are having a straightforward pregnancy, and are not at an increased risk of complications.
• Any document needed to confirm your due date and that you are fit to fly. Some airlines have their own forms/documents that will need to be completed at any stage of pregnancy. Contact your airline if you are unsure.

If you are travelling to Europe, it is recommended that you apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). This will allow you to access routine healthcare at a reduced cost, or for free. For more information on what the card covers and how to apply, see the GOV.UK website.   .

You will have to go through the normal security checks before flying. This is not considered to be a risk to you or your baby.

You must wear a seatbelt. You should ensure the strap of your seatbelt is reasonably tightly fastened across the top of your thighs and then under your bump. Ask the cabin crew if you need a seatbelt extension.

Any pregnant woman has a small chance of going into labour early or for her waters to break early. If this happens to you on a flight, there is no guarantee that other passengers or crewmembers will be trained and experienced to help you give birth safely. As a result, the pilot may have to divert the flight to get help for you.

Flying while you are pregnant can be stressful. If you are feeling anxious or worried in any way, please speak to your healthcare team who can answer your questions and help you get support. The support may come from healthcare professionals, voluntary organisations or other services. Further information and resources are available on the NHS website:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/

Further information

• RCOG Scientific Impact Paper Air Travel and Pregnancy
• Tommy’s website: https://www.tommys.org/

If you are asked to make a choice, you may have lots of questions that you want to ask. You may also want to talk over your options with your family or friends. It can help to write a list of the questions you want answered and take it to your appointment.

Ask 3 Questions

To begin with, try to make sure you get the answers to  3 key questions , if you are asked to make a choice about your healthcare:

• What are my options?
• What are the pros and cons of each option for me?
• How do I get support to help me make a decision that is right for me?

*Ask 3 Questions is based on Shepherd et al. Three questions that patients can ask to improve the quality of information physicians give about treatment options: A cross-over trial. Patient Education and Counselling, 2011;84:379-85  

• https://aqua.nhs.uk/resources/shared-decision-making-case-studies/

Sources and acknowledgments

This information has been developed by the RCOG Patient Information Committee. It is based on the RCOG Scientific Impact Paper Air Travel and Pregnancy (May 2013), which contains a full list of the sources of evidence we have used. You can find it online here .

This information was reviewed before publication by women attending clinics in London, the Channel Isles and Northern Ireland, and by the RCOG Women’s Voices Involvement Panel.

A glossary of all medical terms is available on the RCOG website at: www.rcog.org.uk/womens-health/patientinformation/medical-terms-explained .

Please give us feedback by completing our feedback survey:

• Members of the public – patient information feedback
• Healthcare professionals – patient information feedback

Flying while pregnant? Here’s what you need to know

Editors note: This guide has been updated with the latest information.

During pregnancy, seemingly harmless things like eating deli meat and cleaning your cat's litter box are suddenly off-limits, along with more obvious restrictions on sports like skiing and scuba diving.

But what about "grey area" activities like flying in an airplane?

There's no single set of guidelines governing air travel during pregnancy and every airline has different restrictions, timelines and requirements. Some airlines may also require a medical certificate from a primary attending doctor or midwife for air travel during the final months of pregnancy, though even that varies, with U.S. airlines typically offering more flexibility than international carriers.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

In the absence of clear guidelines, TPG turned to Dr. Nithya Gopal , a board-certified OB-GYN physician and the Director of OB-GYN services at Viva Eve in New York City, for her expert recommendations on safe air travel during pregnancy.

Here's what she had to say:

Is it safe to fly when you are pregnant?

There is no evidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes due to flying, according to Dr. Gopal.

"The general consensus is that it is safest to fly in the first and second trimesters," Dr. Gopal told The Points Guy. "While the first and third trimesters tend to be when the most obstetric emergencies are going to happen, I personally become more cautious with my patients after 32 weeks because of the increased risk for premature labor and the possibility of needing urgent medical attention when you are in the sky."

The most important thing you can do, no matter how far along you are in your pregnancy, is to consult with your healthcare provider before flying.

"Any time you are planning to fly during pregnancy , you should be having that conversation," Dr. Gopal said. Your provider will be familiar with any safety precautions you should take to ensure a safe and healthy flight.

Related: Guide to flying in each trimester of pregnancy

The airline you are flying may have its own cutoff, so you will want to confirm with it beforehand whether you will be allowed to fly if you are in (or nearing) your third trimester. We've included a chart below that outlines the rules for most major airline carriers.

What can you do to stay comfortable on a flight?

When you factor in morning sickness and general pregnancy discomfort with the increased risk for blood clots that all fliers need to be aware of, flying during pregnancy can be uncomfortable even when it is deemed safe.

Dr. Gopal shared her recommendations for addressing these common issues when you take to the (baby-) friendly skies during pregnancy. Her number one tip for staying comfortable while in flight is to wear compression socks to help maintain blood flow and reduce swelling in the legs.

In addition, "I also tell my patients to get up and move at least every hour when they are on the plane," Dr. Gopal said.

To prevent clotting, "some doctors may also prescribe a low-dose aspirin," she added. "It isn't something that is recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), but it isn't harmful, either."

If it's nausea or acid reflux that ail you, there are medications generally considered safe that you can take to alleviate your symptoms. These would be the same ones prescribed by your doctor for morning sickness, so speak with your provider before your flight to ensure you have what you need at the ready.

Dr. Gopal also advises wearing loose, unrestrictive clothing (along with your seatbelt, or course) and drinking extra fluids to counteract the pressurized air in the cabin and keep you hydrated.

"Over-the-counter Gas-X may also help with bloating that can happen as a result of the pressurized air," Dr. Gopal said.

Related: What happens when a baby is born in flight?

Must you speak with your healthcare provider before flying?

Even if your pregnancy is considered low-risk, it's always a smart idea to speak with your healthcare provider before flying. "There are a number of potential risks that go along with flying during pregnancy and those risks can change from week to week and month to month, so it's important to have that honest conversation with your doctor," Dr. Gopal said.

Related: Things You Should Do Before, During and After Flying to Stay Healthy

There are certain pregnancy conditions that may make flying more risky or unadvisable. If you are hypertensive, asthmatic or prone to clotting disorders, it's even more critical to speak with your doctor before flying.

Airline policies differ, but if you need documentation, it never hurts to include enough detail to satisfy the most stringent airline requirements.

"As with many things related to air travel, it's better to be safe than sorry," Dr. Gopal said. "It's definitely worth it, and sometimes necessary, to have medical documentation from your provider's office."

A thorough medical certificate or waiver should state:

• The number of weeks of pregnancy.
• The estimated delivery date.
• Whether the pregnancy is single or multiple.
• Whether there are any complications.
• That you are in good health and fit to travel through the date of your final flight.

Additionally, the certificate should be:

• Written on official clinic or hospital letterhead if possible.
• Signed by the doctor or attending midwife.
• Be dated no later than 72 hours before the departure date.
• Be written in clear, simple English.

Carry this certificate with you on your flight. Some airlines won't ask to see it, but others will. Some airlines also may have their own documentation requirements. See the chart below to find out which airlines require it.

Airline policies for pregnant women

Bottom line.

Even though it may be deemed safe, flying during pregnancy can be uncomfortable — and it is perfectly acceptable to implement your own cutoff for flying with your baby bump in tow. The majority of the time, though, flying is perfectly safe during pregnancy, providing that you follow the guidelines of the airline and your healthcare provider. Read on to learn more about traveling before, during and after pregnancy:

• What to expect in every trimester of pregnancy
• 4 tips for planning travel while planning a pregnancy
• Babymoon boom! These are the top 10 spots for a US getaway before the baby comes
• Flying with a baby checklist

Additional reporting by Katherine Fan and Tarah Chieffi.

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Flying While Pregnant – Your Guide to Airline Policies [2023]

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Airline Policy Chart

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Whether heading on a vacation or babymoon, traveling for work, or visiting family for the holidays, flying while pregnant is extremely common and generally safe when following standard air travel precautions.

As always, wearing a seatbelt and staying hydrated is very important, but so is checking with your doctor, as well as your airline, to confirm any additional requirements.

Depending on your destination and airline, policies may vary, so we created a guide to help make the process just a little bit easier for expectant moms.

Let’s look at what you can expect on your next flight if you are expecting.

Flying While Pregnant Overview

Many airlines allow pregnant women to fly if they haven’t passed 36 weeks of gestation .

However, that number may vary based on medical conditions as well as the destination of the flight, as international flights can have different rules.

U.S. Airline Pregnancy Policies

Alaska Airlines does not have any specific policy for flying while pregnant.

American Airlines requires pregnant passengers to provide a doctor’s certificate stating they’re fit to fly if they’re due within 4 weeks of the flight.

If the flight is within 7 days of the delivery date, your physician must complete a special approval form, and a special assistance coordinator from American Airlines will be assigned to you.

For international travel or travel over water within 4 weeks of your due date, a physician’s note stating that you are fit to fly after being examined within 48 hours of the flight is required.

Pregnant passengers do not face any restrictions when flying on Avelo and a medical certificate is not required for you to travel.

Breeze does not have restrictions or require a medical certificate for pregnant passengers.

Delta Air Lines has no restrictions for pregnant passengers and does not require medical clearance, regardless of the due date.

Frontier Airlines requires a medical certificate starting at the 36th week of pregnancy.

Alternatively, a waiver may be signed at the ticket counter, releasing the airline of liability.

Hawaiian Airlines requires a medical certificate if you’re due within 7 days when flying within Hawaii.

For international flights or between North America, an exam completed within 48 hours of your flight and a certificate are required if the flight is within 30 days of your due date.

JetBlue only requires a medical certificate if you’re due within 7 days of the flight. The exam must be completed within 72 hours of the departure date.

If you are past due, you will not be allowed to fly, even with documentation.

Southwest Airlines recommends against air travel for passengers at or past 38 weeks of pregnancy but does not prohibit it.

The airline may, however, ask pregnant passengers not to sit in the emergency row.

Spirit Airlines “urges” pregnant passengers past 8 months (32 weeks) to get a doctor’s exam before flying to confirm it is safe to travel.

However, no mention of a medical certificate being needed to fly.

United Airlines has no restriction for up to 36 weeks of pregnancy.

Starting the 36th week, an obstetrician’s certificate (original and 2 copies) is required, stating that mother and baby are fit for travel. The certificate must be dated within 72 hours of the flight, although it is preferred to be within 1 day of departure if possible.

The due date must be after the final flight on the itinerary.

International Airline Pregnancy Policies

Aeromexico passengers who are 33 weeks pregnant or more must provide a medical certificate that can be uploaded 48 hours before the flight departure.

The exam must be completed within 5 days of the flight, and it is a good idea to bring a copy of the certificate to the airport just in case.

Air Canada has no restrictions for passengers until their 36th week of pregnancy. After 36 weeks, there is no official statement or requirements.

Air France does not require medical clearance before flying. However, the airline recommends seeking a doctor’s opinion before flying.

Although it is not prohibited, Air France recommends avoiding air travel starting at 37 weeks of pregnancy.

British Airways does not permit pregnant women to fly after the 36th week if they’re pregnant with 1 baby or after the 32nd week for more than 1 baby.

The airline recommends expectant mothers travel with a note from their doctor or midwife confirming:

• If the pregnancy is single or multiple
• Expected due date
• No complications with the pregnancy

This note should be completed as close to the travel dates as possible.

The table below shows the requirements and certificates needed to travel for those with uncomplicated pregnancies.

Cathay Pacific advises that you may be denied boarding if you’re not carrying a required medical certificate or if that certificate is outdated or incomplete.

Emirates has flight restrictions starting at 29 weeks of pregnancy.

Expectant mothers traveling during or after 29 weeks must bring a medical certificate signed by a doctor or midwife that includes:

• Single or multiple pregnancies
• Estimated due date
• The latest date your doctor expects you to be fit for travel
• You are in good health
• That there is no known reason that would prevent you from flying

Passengers are prohibited from flying after the 36th week of a single pregnancy or the 32nd week of a multiples pregnancy.

If you need to request an exception to the rule, you can apply for medical clearance by submitting a medical information form .

Etihad Airways has flight restrictions starting at 29 weeks of pregnancy.

From weeks 29 to 36 (29 to 32 for a multiples pregnancy), a medical certificate is required to fly.

Passengers are prohibited from flying once reaching the 37th week of a single pregnancy or the 33rd week of a multiples pregnancy.

If you need to submit a medical certificate, you can download it before arriving at the airport.

Japan Air Lines requires a medical certificate  for the following circumstances:

• When the expected delivery date is within 28 days or is uncertain
• When expecting multiple births
• When there were previous premature births

KLM advises expectant mothers not to fly after reaching 36 weeks of pregnancy. Getting medical clearance to fly is not required, but it is recommended.

LATAM allows pregnant passengers of up to 29 weeks to fly without authorization. From the 30th week on, a medical certificate is required.

After 39 weeks, travel is prohibited.

Lufthansa does not require medical clearance until after the 28th week of pregnancy.

Beyond the 28th week, it is recommended that you travel with a certificate that includes:

• Confirmation that the pregnancy does not have any complications
• A statement from an obstetrician stating that the pregnancy does not prevent you from flying

From the 36th week, this certificate is required to fly. In the case of twin or multiples pregnancy, flying is prohibited after the 32nd week.

Qatar Airways recommends traveling with a doctor’s certificate until the 29th week of pregnancy. After the 29th week arrives, the certificate is required.

At the beginning of the 33rd week, a doctor’s certificate, as well as a MEDIF form , is required and must include the following:

• Patient’s name and date of birth
• Estimated date of delivery
• Proposed dates of air travel
• Confirmation of uncomplicated pregnancy
• Confirmation that the patient is fit for travel
• Date, stamp, and contact details of a qualified doctor

After the 36th week of pregnancy begins, Qatar Airways will not allow you to fly, or 33 weeks in the case of a multiples pregnancy.

Singapore Airlines has no requirements until after the 28th week of pregnancy.

From the 29th week to the 36th week (32nd week for a multiples pregnancy), a medical statement is required to fly that includes:

• Fitness to travel
• Number of weeks pregnant

This certificate must be dated within 10 days of the first flight.

After the 36th week (or the 32nd week for a multiples pregnancy), air travel with Singapore Airlines is not allowed.

After 28 weeks, you will be required to provide a letter from your doctor, dated within 10 days of travel, “outlining the estimated due date, single or multiple pregnancies, the absence of complications, and your fitness to fly for the duration of the flight(s) booked.”

Medical clearance is required for any pregnancy with complications or within 5 days of normal vaginal delivery.

The following conditions are unacceptable for travel:

Virgin Atlantic has no requirements until the 28th week of pregnancy.

From the 28th week to the 36th week (32nd week for a multiples pregnancy), a doctor’s certificate may be requested at the airport or onboard. The certificate should state that there have been no complications and show the estimated due date.

After the 36th week (or 32nd week for a multiples pregnancy), air travel with Virgin Atlantic is prohibited. Travel after the cut-off date may be permitted in special circumstances.

WestJet only recommends that expectant mothers check with their physician or midwife before traveling if they are more than 36 weeks pregnant.

Hot Tip: Are you planning your first trip with your little one? Read the ultimate guide to booking a lap child on your next flight .

Most of these travel tips are helpful for everyone, but especially for expectant mothers.

Choose the Right Seat

Choosing the right seat can make a big difference on an airplane. By sitting in a bulkhead or an aisle seat, you will have more room to stretch your legs and more freedom to get up to use the bathroom if needed.

Also, this may be a good time to splurge on a business or first class seat so you can lie flat and get some rest.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

Wearing comfortable clothing is travel 101, but wearing comfortable layers will give you options if you find the cabin too hot or cold.

Wear Compression Socks

A popular travel hack (even if you aren’t pregnant) is to wear compression socks to reduce swelling and help with blood flow.

However, it may be a good idea to speak with your doctor if you haven’t used them before.

Get Up and Stretch

Walking up and down the aisle is a great way to get your blood flowing and keep oxygen levels up.

Stay Hydrated

Planes are notorious for being dry and sucking moisture out of the air. Pack a big water bottle and ask for more while onboard to ensure you don’t get dehydrated.

Beat Nausea

If you are prone to nausea, bring remedies such as candies and crackers (or whatever works for you) because smells can sometimes be unavoidable inside a plane.

Buy Travelers Insurance

Having travelers insurance is always a good idea, especially if you are traveling far from home — even more so if you are late in your pregnancy.

Hot Tip: Once your little traveler is born, they will want to fly with you. Here is the ultimate guide to baby bassinet seats on 50+ airlines .

Pregnancy is a beautiful thing, and combining it with travel can be a recipe for some wonderful memories.

If you’re planning a bucket list babymoon or just need to keep working and traveling, knowing which airlines will best accommodate you is essential when booking travel.

This guide has plenty of information, and when you’re ready to start traveling with your little one in tow, be sure to come back and read our family travel guides!

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to fly when pregnant.

In most cases, flying while pregnant is perfectly safe as long as normal safety precautions are taken.

Can you fly during the third trimester? 

Most airlines will allow expectant mothers to fly until the 36th week of pregnancy, often with a doctor’s note.

Do airlines restrict pregnant passengers?

Most airlines allow pregnant passengers to fly until they are 36 weeks pregnant. Some have no restrictions at all.

What are the rules when flying while pregnant?

Each airline sets its own policy regarding flying while pregnant, and it often depends on gestation age and how complicated the pregnancy is. We put together a list of the most popular airlines and their pregnancy policies.

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About Chris Hassan

Chris holds a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management and managed social media for all Marriott properties in South America, making him a perfect fit for UP and its social media channels. He has a passion for making content catered toward family travelers.

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How to Make Long Flights More Comfortable When You're Pregnant

By Joanna Carrigan

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Preparing for a newborn can feel like an exhilarating task; on the one hand, there’s a long-anticipated, already much-loved new arrival making an entrance into your life. On the other, getting yourself into a birthing headspace can feel like a marathon. I’ve already lost count of the amount of  stroller reviews , hypno-birthing manuals, crib catalogs, and paint samples I’ve flicked through in my quest for newborn nirvana. 

With that in mind, many couples are now opting to take a break from the organizational overload in the form of a  long-haul babymoon —a pre-birth couples vacation—as a way of spending those last special moments together as a family of two. And in fact, air travel can generally be considered  safe for most expectant mothers , with advice from your doctor recommended. 

“All pregnancies and mums have individual needs and varying circumstances,” says Marie Louise, midwife and author of  The Modern Midwife’s Guide To Pregnancy . “If mums have any health complications or are close to giving birth, travel should be very carefully considered. Otherwise, mums need a break—it’s good to enjoy and relax on your travels.”

Pregnancy can often feel like a long-haul adventure in itself, and whilst the thought of an extensive flight may not jump out at the top of your to-do list, there are ways to make that coveted trip—and any other air travel during pregnancy that comes up—more comfortable.

Below, I’ve curated an essential list for what to pack in your carry-on for air travel during pregnancy, based in part on my own experience traveling to Europe whilst expecting. 

Strategic carry-ons

A great place to start is your carry-on itself, as the right style can help not only to make your essentials more accessible, but the correct product can be re-used as a diaper bag once your pre-baby vacation is a distant happy memory. The key to  choosing the perfect carry-on is not only to be mindful of the airline guidelines set out around dimensions and weight restrictions, but to think from your own perspective about what will be easiest for you to carry. If back issues prevail—a common complaint during pregnancy—a stylish rucksack may be more suitable than a tote. And if you’re looking for post-pregnancy practicality, a duffel can tick that cross-functional box. 

Pregnancy support bands

Glamour takes a back seat with this essential, but your posture and ligaments will thank me later. If you’re flying internationally or just maneuvering your way through a large airport, you may face long walks between terminals, which can place strain on the lower back. Bump support bands are designed to help relieve the pressure that the additional weight of your bump is putting on your back, and therefore can make a sensible addition to your carry-on packing list. 

Anti-nausea pregnancy methods 

Not every foray into the world of parenthood is a smooth one, and unfortunately  nausea and sickness can play a starring role in pregnancy, especially in the early stages. My first 16 weeks of pregnancy were punctuated with frequent trips to the restroom, and with many flights taken during this time, I became accustomed to having to rely on a few tricks to see me through those difficult moments. 

Travel bands can be an excellent way to relieve pregnancy related nausea, and they’ve taken a high-tech turn in recent years. Hypnotherapy podcasts can also be a calming way to reduce feelings of sickness, and are best listened to with noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask . 

Hydrating skincare for expectant mothers 

Pregnancy can present some interesting  skincare dilemmas , with many people experiencing a change at some point across their nine months. Dry patches, oily T-zones, and acne outbreaks are all common complaints. To help skin stay hydrated when flying, there are many pregnancy-safe products out there which can help replenish and restore your skin's natural barrier. La Mer The Mist Facial Spray is a particular favorite of mine—easy to apply, super lightweight, and long-lasting. 

Travel pillows

During pregnancy, ligaments in the hips and back loosen in preparation for birth and this can often cause secondary strain across the top of the shoulders and neck which can be very uncomfortable for expectant mothers. If you’re traveling whilst pregnant, I recommend investing in a travel neck pillow , and packing your pregnancy pillow if you’re flying in a seat with a lie-flat bed. 

Compression socks

“During pregnancy, you are at an increased risk of developing a blood clot,” Louise says. “That’s why compression socks , hydration, and movement—walking, stretching, and circling ankles—is recommended.”

Again, it’s not the most glamorous addition to your carry-on, but this footwear is important nonetheless. Try to stretch your legs every hour or so if possible, with a walk down the aisle or some lower leg exercises. 

While packing a well-stocked carry-on will undoubtedly enhance your flying experience, there are other ways to ensure that you’re prepared for a relaxing trip. Here are my top three tips for flying while pregnant:

Food and beverage choices 

Whilst it’s unlikely you’ll be able to see the full on-board menu in advance, it’s often a good idea to pre-select your meal genre if you’re having  aversions or preferences during your pregnancy. Being able to rule out meat, dairy, or even opt for a lighter option may be preferable for some mothers-to-be. It could be worth packing a couple of extra snacks in your carry-on, just in case. I’ve been stashing ginger tea bags and plenty of dried fruit and nuts ( dried banana chips are a particular craving of mine) to see me through. 

The airport experience

Lounge access can not only be an enjoyable way to kick-off your vacation, it can also be a lifesaver for tired feet. Having access to a clean and comfortable restroom can also often be advantageous, so if your travel tickets don’t include a lounge as standard, it could be worth a  pay-for-access option to give you peace of mind that you’ll be spending time in a calm and restful environment before or in between flights. 

Your travel outfit

While a stylish airport look is always desirable, comfort should definitely reign supreme during this important period, since your body is already coping with so much. Activewear can provide comfort and support during long-haul travel, and there are  plenty of options out there. I look to brands like  Alo Yoga and  Lululemon for pieces that satisfy both the style and comfort stakes. 

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Air Travel During Pregnancy

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Is it Safe to Fly During Pregnancy?

It's OK to travel by air during pregnancy unless your due date is near, or your doctor says that you (or your baby) have a medical condition and it's safer for you to stay close to home. Most healthy pregnant women can fly up to 4 weeks before their due date. After that, it's best not to travel far in case you deliver.

When Might Air Travel Be Risky?

Doctors do recommend that pregnant women with some types of health conditions — like high blood pressure (hypertension) or blood clots; or a history of miscarriage , premature labor , ectopic pregnancy, or other prenatal problems — not travel by air.

Note: Pregnant women also should not fly to areas with high altitudes, regions with disease outbreaks or where some kinds infections are common (like Zika or malaria ), or where certain vaccines are recommended for travelers beforehand.

What Are the Possible Risks to a Baby?

For women with healthy pregnancies, there are no significant risks. But anyone who has a difficult pregnancy , especially involving the cardiovascular system, should discuss any flying plans with their doctor.

What Else Should I Know?

Discuss any plans for lengthy or distant travel with your doctor, just in case. Then, check with the airline to find out what their policies are about flying during pregnancy. (Most airlines will allow pregnant women to fly up until week 37 . Some might ask for a document from your doctor with information about the due date and confirming that you are OK to travel.)

Check your health insurance policy to make sure that it covers pregnancy and neonatal health issues while abroad. If it doesn’t, consider getting travel health insurance.

To keep your flight as comfortable as possible:

• Move your lower legs regularly and/or get out of your seat (especially during long flights) to promote blood circulation and help prevent blood clots.
• Wear support stockings to help prevent clotting in your legs.
• Keep your seatbelt on when you're seated to keep the jostling of turbulence to a minimum.

Can I Fly While Pregnant?

Here are expert answers to some of the most-asked questions about air travel during pregnancy, by rosie colosi.

If you’re debating about whether to book that plane ticket for your babymoon in Hawaii, you can most likely get ready to say “aloha”!

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ (ACOG) in-depth guidebook, “ Your Pregnancy and Childbirth: Month to Month ,” states: “In the absence of obstetric or medical complications, occasional air travel is safe for pregnant women. Pregnant women can fly safely, observing the same precautions for air travel as the general population.”

Of course, knowing that something is safe and feeling safe are two completely different things. If you’re planning to fly during your pregnancy, you probably have some questions about how to feel safe while in the air. So we asked a pregnancy health expert to weigh in and hopefully put your mind at ease.

When can you fly while pregnant?

According to ACOG , most airlines allow pregnant people to fly domestically up until about 36 weeks of pregnancy (or until 33 weeks if carrying multiples). But that’s not the whole story.

Dr. Kenneth T. Borkowski, lead physician at Women’s Health Group in Connecticut, clarified that these guidelines “are airline policies and they are not therefore medical in nature. The airline carriers do not wish to encounter medical issues mid-flight which would divert a plane to the closest terminal in the event of such issues. Occasional air travel, under most circumstances, is considered safe throughout pregnancy.”

Even so, pregnant people with medical or obstetric conditions (like preeclampsia , higher risk for preterm labor or vaginal bleeding) should consult their doctor before booking air travel.

“The most common obstetric emergencies happen in the first and third trimesters,” Dr. Borkowski says. “Other than taking that into consideration, the ‘best’ time to travel is when the airline rates are the lowest!”

What about flying internationally while pregnant?

Some international flights restrict pregnant people even earlier than 36 weeks, Dr. Borkowski says, and may require documentation of the baby’s gestational age before allowing them to board.

International flights (or even coast-to-coast domestic flights) tend to be longer, increasing the risk for turbulence, blood clots and dehydration. Changes in air pressure can decrease the amount of oxygen you breathe, and sitting still for a long period of time can prohibit healthy blood flow. This is true for anyone who flies, but the risk is higher for pregnant people . Dr. Borkowski recommends taking simple measures like drinking water, moving around the cabin and wearing below-the-knee graduated compression stockings to minimize these risks.

Is it safe to go through airport security while pregnant?

The Travel Security Administration (TSA) assures pregnant people that the airport screening machines are safe because they don’t actually use X-rays. Most airport screening machines use nonionizing radiation , which has much less potential for harm. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say that “most common exposures to nonionizing radiation are not considered hazardous to you or your unborn baby.” Even older X-ray backscatter scanners do not expose you to enough radiation to threaten the health of you or your baby.

If you’re still nervous, you can request a pat-down instead. And if you have trouble lifting your bags or taking your shoes off at any point in the process, ask a security officer for assistance.

How can I stay safe and comfortable while flying?

ACOG recommends wearing your seatbelt at all times during the flight. It can be fastened lower on your hip bones, below your belly. The seatbelt will help stabilize you in the event of turbulence.

Move your feet, toes and legs often. You may want to book an aisle seat so you can walk the length of the plane to improve your circulation on a longer flight. (And an aisle seat will help you reach the bathroom more easily!)

Avoid carbonated drinks before the flight. High altitudes make gas expand, which won’t exactly help your comfort level. But don’t avoid all beverages—drink lots of water to stay hydrated.

What problems should I watch for while flying?

Again, the likelihood of experiencing any pregnancy-related medical issues during flight is very low. But there are a few symptoms that may warrant a call to your doctor.

An ACOG ob-gyn said that regardless of whether you’re in the air or on the ground, “any bleeding, leaking fluid, abdominal pain or change in fetal activity should trigger a call to the doctor.”

Adding airline travel to the mix puts you at a slightly higher risk of blood clots in the legs or lungs. Major symptoms of blood clots include pain and swelling in the legs, particularly on one side. Chest pain, shortness of breath and a fast heart rate can also be symptoms.

If you notice these symptoms or notice a decrease in the baby’s movement, give your doctor a call.

Should I be worried about additional radiation exposure while flying?

ACOG’s guidebook says that you shouldn’t worry: “Radiation exposure increases at higher altitudes, but the level of exposure generally isn’t a concern for pregnant women. If you are a frequent flier, talk with your ob-gyn about how much flying is safe for you.”

Is airline travel more dangerous for pregnant people during the Covid-19 and monkeypox pandemics?

This is a tough question to answer, Dr. Borkowski says. Because pregnancy lowers immune function, slightly increasing the chances of a poor outcome from Covid-19, pregnant people are considered part of the “at-risk” population and should protect themselves by staying up-to-date on vaccinations and wearing a high quality mask. If you are not vaccinated, if you don’t have some sort of naturally acquired immunity or if you are traveling to areas where Covid transmission is high, you may want to think about how to keep your contact with other people limited, like renting a car rather than ride-sharing, dining outdoors or staying in a rental house rather than a big hotel with common areas.

“My advice would be to follow the recommendations from the CDC as well as those of their local physicians based on the Covid numbers in their region and in the region that they are planning to travel to,” Dr. Borkowski says.

As far as monkeypox, he said that it’s likely not a concern. The likelihood of “prolonged direct contact” with lesions is not likely to occur during airline travel.

Though there may be a few additional things to look out for, flying while pregnant shouldn’t keep you up at night. Chances are high that your trip will be smooth sailing.

So book that babymoon, attend a work conference or travel to visit relatives before the baby comes. “Enjoy your flight and the destination to which it takes you,” Dr. Borkowski says. “There is a wonderful world out there that should be explored and cherished!”

Rosie Colosi

Rosie Colosi writes books for curious kids and articles for parents who are counting the minutes until bedtime. Once upon a lifetime ago, she played Mrs. Claus in The Christmas Spectacular Starring The Radio City Rockettes , but now she mostly focuses on singing songs from  Annie  to her two little girls.

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Flying when pregnant: what you need to know

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If you’re feeling unsure about whether you can hop on that plane when you’re expecting, here’s the info.

Can I fly at one, two or three months pregnant (first trimester)?

Yes, there is no evidence that flying causes miscarriage (RCOG, 2015) . Yet as this is the riskiest time for miscarriage , just be aware that no medical help will be available if that does happen. You also might feel nauseous and exhausted, so that’s something to think about too.

Can I fly at four, five or six months pregnant (second trimester)?

Good news if you’re thinking of going away in the second trimester: it’s considered the safest time to fly (Hezelgrave et al, 2011) . That’s mainly because the risk of pregnancy-related complications, including miscarriage, is lower during the second trimester than in the first and third (Hezelgrave et al, 2011) .

Can I fly at seven, eight or nine months pregnant (third trimester)?

It’s fine to fly in the third trimester but you’re advised to do it before 37 weeks, or before 32 weeks in an uncomplicated twin pregnancy . That’s because you could go into labour any time after those dates (RCOG, 2015) .

Do still check with your specific airline before you fly though. Many airlines have restrictions on travel in advanced pregnancy (Hezelgrave et al, 2011) .

Flying when pregnant: the worries and concerns

First of all, you should know that flying is not considered harmful to you or your baby if you’re having a straightforward pregnancy.

You might feel a bit uncomfortable flying at certain stages of pregnancy. For example, you might have swollen legs, pregnancy sickness , nasal congestion (more common during pregnancy) or ear problems during pressure changes due to this congestion (RCOG, 2015) .

A change in air pressure or a decrease in humidity won’t cause your baby any harm. There is also no evidence to suggest that flying causes miscarriages, early labour or waters to break (RCOG, 2015) . If you have any health issues or pregnancy complications, discuss it with your GP or midwife before you decide to fly. They might advise you not to fly if you have:

• severe anaemia
• sickle cell disease
• significant vaginal bleeding
• a serious heart or lung condition that makes it difficult to breathe
• increased risk of going into labour before the due date
• increased chance of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy  (request an ultrasound before flying)
• previous history of ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility and documented tubal pathology.

(Hezelgrave et al, 2011; RCOG, 2015)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) when pregnant and flying

A DVT  is a blood clot that develops in a deep vein in your leg or pelvis. It’s dangerous if a DVT travels to your lungs and causes a pulmonary embolism.

The risk of DVT increases when you’re flying and with longer flights because you are sitting down for a long time. You’re also at a higher risk of developing a DVT when you are pregnant and for up to six weeks after you give birth (RCOG, 2015) . Risk factors like a previous history of DVT and a high BMI can further increase your chance of developing a DVT.

Your doctor or midwife will be able to check your risk of developing DVT and advise you about flying.

How to reduce your risk of DVT

You can reduce your risk of DVT by:

• wearing loose clothing and comfy shoes
• getting an aisle seat and going for regular walks around the plane
• doing in-seat exercises every 30 minutes (ask your GP about how to do these)
• drinking plenty of water
• avoiding drinks containing alcohol and caffeine
• wearing graduated elastic compression stockings to help reduce leg swelling.

(RCOG, 2015; NHS Choices, 2016)

Flying when pregnant: general tips

• Take your hand-held pregnancy notes.
• Carry any medication in your hand luggage.
• Carry any documents confirming your due date and (if needed) that you are fit to travel. If you are 28 weeks pregnant or more, the airline you are travelling with might ask for a letter from your midwife or doctor stating your due date, that you’re in good health, have no complications and have a straightforward pregnancy.
• Carry your travel insurance documents with you too or make sure you have access to them if they’re on email.
• Carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you if you are travelling to Europe. You can apply online for one for free .
• Seatbelt wise, it’s recommended that you strap your seatbelt reasonably tightly across the top of your thighs and then under your bump. If you need a seatbelt extension, ask cabin crew.

Travel vaccinations when pregnant – are they safe?

There’s no evidence of risk from vaccinations that contain inactivated virus, bacterial vaccines or toxoids when you’re pregnant (CDC, 2017) . However, avoid live vaccines like yellow fever because of the risk of contracting a disease that might harm your developing baby (Hezelgrave et al, 2011) .

If you need advice on specific travel vaccinations, contact your doctor or midwife. Some anti-malarial tablets are not safe to be taken during pregnancy, so consult your GP or midwife about those too (NHS Choices, 2016) .

This page was last reviewed in May 2018.

Further information

Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby and general enquiries for parents, members and volunteers: 0300 330 0700.

We also offer antenatal courses which are a great way to find out more about birth, labour and life with a new baby.

CDC. (2017) Guidelines for vaccinating pregnant women. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pregnancy/hcp/guidelines.html [Accessed 11th May 2018]

Hezelgrave NL, Shennan AH, Chappell LC. (2011) Advising on travel during pregnancy. BMJ.342. Available from: https://www.bmj.com/content/342/bmj.d2506.long [Accessed 11th May 2018]

NHS Choices. (2016) Travelling in pregnancy. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/travel-pregnant/#car-travel-in-pregnancy [Accessed 11th May 2018]

RCOG. (2015) Air travel and pregnancy. Available from: https://www.rcog.org.uk/globalassets/documents/patients/patient-information-leaflets/pregnancy/air-travel-pregnancy.pdf [Accessed 11th May 2018]

Rodger MA, Walker M, Wells PS. (2003) Diagnosis and treatment of venous thromboembolism in pregnancy. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol. 16:279-296. Available from:  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12763492 [Accessed 11th May 2018]

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Pregnant Travelers

Pregnant travelers can generally travel safely with appropriate preparation. But they should avoid some destinations, including those with risk of Zika and malaria. Learn more about traveling during pregnancy and steps you can take to keep you and your baby healthy.

Before Travel

Before you book a cruise or air travel, check the airlines or cruise operator policies for pregnant women. Some airlines will let you fly until 36 weeks, but others may have an earlier cutoff. Cruises may not allow you to travel after 24–28 weeks of pregnancy, and you may need to have a note from your doctor stating you are fit to travel.

Zika and Malaria

Zika can cause severe birth defects. The Zika virus is spread through mosquito bites and sex. If you are pregnant, do not travel to  areas with risk of Zika . If you must travel to an area with Zika, use  insect repellent  and take other steps to avoid bug bites. If you have a sex partner who lives in or has traveled to an area with Zika, you should use condoms for the rest of your pregnancy.

Pregnant travelers should avoid travel to areas with malaria, as it can be more severe in pregnant women. Malaria increases the risk for serious pregnancy problems, including premature birth, miscarriage, and stillbirth. If you must travel to an area with malaria, talk to your doctor about taking malaria prevention medicine. Malaria is spread by mosquitoes, so use  insect repellent and take other steps to avoid bug bites.

Make an appointment with your healthcare provider or a travel health specialist  that takes place at least one month before you leave. They can help you get destination-specific vaccines, medicines, and information. Discussing your health concerns, itinerary, and planned activities with your provider allows them to give more specific advice and recommendations.

Plan for the unexpected. It is important to plan for unexpected events as much as possible. Doing so can help you get quality health care or avoid being stranded at a destination. A few steps you can take to plan for unexpected events are to  get travel insurance ,    learn where to get health care during travel ,  pack a travel health kit ,  and  enroll in the Department of State’s STEP .

Be sure your healthcare policy covers pregnancy and neonatal complications while overseas. If it doesn’t get travel health insurance that covers those items. Consider getting medical evacuation insurance too.

Recognize signs and symptoms that require immediate medical attention, including pelvic or abdominal pain, bleeding, contractions, symptoms of preeclampsia (unusual swelling, severe headaches, nausea and vomiting, and vision changes), and dehydration.

Prepare a  travel health kit . Pregnant travelers may want to include in your kit prescription medications, hemorrhoid cream, antiemetic drugs, antacids, prenatal vitamins, medication for vaginitis or yeast infection, and support hose, in addition to the items recommended for all travelers.

During Travel

Your feet may become swollen on a long flight, so wear comfortable shoes and loose clothing and try to walk around every hour or so. Sitting for a long time, like on long flight, increases your chances of getting blood clots, or deep vein thrombosis. Pregnant women are also more likely to get blood clots. To reduce your risk of a blood clot, your doctor may recommend compression stockings or leg exercises you can do in your seat. Also, see CDC’s Blood Clots During Travel page for more tips on how to avoid blood clots during travel.

Choose safe food and drink. Contaminated food or drinks can cause travelers’ diarrhea and other diseases and disrupt your travel. Travelers to low or middle income destinations are especially at risk. Generally, foods served hot are usually safe to eat as well as dry and packaged foods. Bottled, canned, and hot drinks are usually safe to drink. Learn more about how to choose safer  food and drinks  to prevent getting sick.

Pregnant women should not use bismuth subsalicylate, which is in Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate. Travelers to low or middle income  destinations  are more likely to get sick from food or drinks. Iodine tablets for water purification should not be used since they can harm thyroid development of the fetus.

After Travel

If you traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to a healthcare provider immediately, and tell them about your travel. Avoid contact with other people while you are sick.

More Information

CDC Yellow Book: Pregnant Travelers

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Air travel during pregnancy

1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of Aschaffenburg, Germany

P Tsikouras

2 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Democritus University of Thrace, Greece

Dear Editor,

Air travel does not seem to be harmful to pregnancy, and it is generally considered to be safe; thus most commercial airlines allow pregnant women to fly until the 36 th week of their gestational age. The data regarding the precise effect of air travel on thromboembolism, miscarriage, preterm labor rates, and pregnancy outcomes is limited 1 . Medium- to long-distance travelers have a 2- to 4-fold increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) compared to non-travelers due to immobilization for several hours, hypoxia associated with decreased cabin pressure, and dehydration because of low cabin humidity. An association between air travel and miscarriage is considered contradictory. In the future, studies concerning pregnant woman traveling by air should address personal and work-related risk factors in more detail and include a comparison with other occupational groups. Women with a higher risk of spontaneous miscarriage should be restricted from flying. According to literature, there is no sufficient data that relate preterm labor with air travel.  Freeman et al who addressed potential risk in late (≥ 20 weeks) pregnancy, found that air travel was not associated with increased risk of complications for birth weight, shorter gestation, rate of vaginal bleeding, preterm delivery, preeclampsia or neonatal intensive care admission 2 . Chibber et al presented conflicting results with larger sample size and showed that primigravid women who travel by air appear to be at a higher risk for preterm birth 3 . Such research results are vital, and multicentre large studies are required to confirm or refute these findings and to define new strategies for preventing adverse birth outcomes. Pregnant women suffering from serious medical or obstetric conditions need their management to be individualized. Women with preexisting cardiovascular illness demand special management. In pregnancy it is essential to evaluate the patient’s anamnesis considering cardiovascular, cardiac and pulmonary diseases, renal insufficiency, hypertension, diabetes or a recent VTE. Air travel during pregnancy nowadays is very common especially when international travel for work and pleasure is more commonplace. Despite the increasing number of reviews focussing on air-travel in different stages of pregnancy, our knowledge about the real effects of international flights is limited. The radiation dose to the fetus from exposure to cosmic radiation is negligible. Flights lasting more than 4 hour are associated with a small increase in the relative risk of VTE. Specific prevention methods, e.g., elastic compression stockings should be applied for women who fly medium or long-haul flights (> 4 hours), and low-molecular-weight heparin should be administered to those with significant risk factors such as previous thrombosis or morbid obesity. Low dose Aspirin is not indicated in pregnancy for thromboprophylaxis associated with air travel. A meticulous risk assessment should be completed to identify the main risks and special management strategies for avoiding complications while travelling 4 .

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Travel During Pregnancy

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Travel during pregnancy generally is safe if you're healthy and not at risk for problems. The safest time to travel is between 14 and 28 weeks, when your risks for miscarriage and early labor are lowest. Check with your doctor before you travel.

Traveling by car

You will probably be able to travel by car throughout your pregnancy if you're having no problems. But talk to your doctor or midwife before you take any long car trips.

• Strap the lower belt across your lap, under your belly. Remove any slack in the seat belt.
• Run the shoulder belt between your breasts and around (not over) your belly.
• Slide the seat as far back as possible. Tilt the seat back slightly to increase the distance between your chest and the air bag [to 10 in. (25 cm) or more].
• Do not turn off the air bags.
• Try not to drive for more than 4 hours a day.
• Take short walks at least every 2 hours. And try to change positions or move your legs regularly while sitting. This helps keep blood moving in your legs.
• Drink enough fluids, such as water.
• Ask your doctor if you can wear compression stockings.
• Take regular bathroom breaks on long trips to help reduce pressure on your bladder.
• Carry a written record of your due date and any medical conditions you have.

Traveling by air

A good time to fly during pregnancy is between 14 and 28 weeks. Morning sickness has usually improved by this time, and you can still move around easily. The risk of miscarriage or preterm labor is also lower during your second trimester.

• Talk to your doctor or midwife before you fly or take any extended trip.

Some airlines restrict flying during the third trimester.

Some airlines ask to see this information.

This will make it easier to move around the plane.

Keep your seat belt fastened as much as possible in case of turbulence.

This helps keep blood moving in your legs and helps reduce your risk for blood clots.

• You've reached your 36th week of pregnancy.
• You have a placenta-related problem, such as preeclampsia, or have risk factors for early (preterm) labor.
• Your doctor has advised against flying, based on your medical history or current condition.

Some long airplane flights can expose you to radiation. If you have to fly often, talk to your doctor or midwife.

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• Travel Health

Current as of: July 10, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Author: Healthwise Staff

Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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Travelling in pregnancy

With the proper precautions such as travel insurance, most women can travel safely well into their pregnancy.

Wherever you go, find out what healthcare facilities are at your destination in case you need urgent medical attention. It's a good idea to take your maternity medical records (sometimes called handheld notes) with you so you can give doctors the relevant information if necessary.

Find out more about getting healthcare abroad .

Make sure your travel insurance covers you for any eventuality, such as pregnancy-related medical care during labour, premature birth and the cost of changing the date of your return trip if you go into labour .

When to travel in pregnancy

Some women prefer not to travel in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy because of  nausea and vomiting and feeling very tired during these early stages. The risk of  miscarriage is also higher in the first 3 months, whether you're travelling or not.

Travelling in the final months of pregnancy can be tiring and uncomfortable. So, many women find the best time to travel or take a holiday is in mid-pregnancy, between 4 and 6 months.

Flying in pregnancy

Flying isn't harmful to you or your baby, but discuss any health issues or pregnancy complications with your midwife or doctor before you fly.

The chance of going into labour is naturally higher after  37 weeks (around 32 weeks if you're carrying twins), and some airlines won't let you fly towards the end of your pregnancy. Check with the airline for their policy on this.

After week 28 of pregnancy, the airline may ask for a letter from your doctor or midwife confirming your due date, and that you are not at risk of complications. You may have to pay for the letter and wait several weeks before you get it.

Long-distance travel (longer than 4 hours) carries a small risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis (DVT)) . If you fly, drink plenty of water and move about regularly – every 30 minutes or so. You can buy a pair of graduated compression or support stockings from the pharmacy, which will help reduce leg swelling.

Travel vaccinations when you're pregnant

Most vaccines that use live bacteria or viruses aren't recommended during pregnancy because of concerns that they could harm the baby in the womb.

However, some live travel vaccines may be considered during pregnancy if the risk of infection outweighs the risk of live vaccination. Ask your GP or midwife for advice about specific travel vaccinations. Non-live (inactivated) vaccines are safe to use in pregnancy.

Malaria tablets

Some anti-malaria tablets aren't safe to take in pregnancy so ask your GP for advice.

Zika virus is mainly spread by mosquitoes found in some parts of the world. For most people it's mild and not harmful, but can cause problems if you're pregnant.

If you are pregnant, it is not recommended to travel to parts of the world where the Zika virus is present, such as parts of:

• South and Central America
• the Caribbean
• the Pacific islands

Check before you travel

It's important to check the risk for the country you're going to before you travel.

Find out more about the Zika virus risk in specific countries on the Travel Health Pro website

Car travel in pregnancy

It's best to avoid long car journeys if you're pregnant. However, if it can't be avoided, make sure you stop regularly and get out of the car to stretch and move around.

You can also do some exercises in the car (when you're not driving), such as flexing and rotating your feet and wiggling your toes. This will keep the blood flowing through your legs and reduce any stiffness and discomfort. Wearing compression stockings while on long car journeys (more than 4 hours) can also increase the blood flow in your legs and help prevent blood clots.

Tiredness and dizziness are common during pregnancy so it's important on car journeys to drink regularly and eat natural, energy-giving foods, such as fruit and nuts.

Keep the air circulating in the car and wear your seatbelt with the cross strap between your breasts and the lap strap across your pelvis under your bump, not across your bump.

Road accidents are among the most common causes of injury in pregnant women. If you have to make a long trip, don't travel on your own. You could also share the driving with your companion.

Sailing in pregnancy

Ferry companies have their own restrictions and may refuse to carry heavily pregnant women (often beyond 32 weeks on standard crossings and 28 weeks on high-speed crossings ). Check the ferry company's policy before you book.

For longer boat trips, such as cruises, find out if there are onboard facilities to deal with pregnancy and medical services at the docking ports.

Food and drink abroad in pregnancy

Take care to avoid food- and water-borne conditions, such as stomach upsets and travellers' diarrhoea . Some medicines for treating stomach upsets and travellers' diarrhoea aren't suitable during pregnancy.

Always check if tap water is safe to drink. If in doubt, drink bottled water. If you get ill, keep hydrated and continue eating for the health of your baby, even if you're not hungry.

Find out about a healthy diet in pregnancy , and foods to avoid in pregnancy .

Page last reviewed: 17 August 2022 Next review due: 17 August 2025