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Traveling while pregnant: Your complete guide

Unless you're nearing your due date or have certain complications, your healthcare provider will generally give you the green light for pregnancy travel. Here's how to safely explore – plus what to consider before making plans.

Is traveling while pregnant safe?

When to avoid pregnancy travel, when is the best time to travel while you're pregnant , can pregnant women travel during covid, when should you stop traveling while pregnant, your pregnancy travel checklist, when to call your doctor while traveling.

Yes, it's generally safe to travel during pregnancy as long as you're not too close to your due date and you're not experiencing any serious pregnancy complications. There are special precautions to take, of course, and you may find yourself stopping to use the bathroom more than you're used to, but that babymoon can be within reach.

Before you pack your suitcase, talk with your healthcare provider to make sure it’s safe for you to travel and that your destination is a good choice. You'll want to avoid places where infectious diseases are prevalent (or there are high outbreaks of Zika or malaria, for example). The COVID-19 pandemic has made people reconsider where they feel safe traveling as well; if you're fully vaccinated, the CDC says you can travel Opens a new window , but it's always best to check with your doctor first.

And bear in mind that the activities you take part in might be different than normal – you'll want to skip the Scuba diving lessons, for example (though snorkeling is okay!).

It's safe to fly when you're pregnant as well, and most airlines will allow you to fly domestically until about 36 weeks of pregnancy. International routes may have different rules, so be sure to check with your airline before booking anything. Your doctor will tell you to avoid flying, however, if you have a health concern that might require emergency care or any other health conditions that aren’t well controlled.

It's best to avoid traveling while pregnant if you have any health conditions that can be life-threatening to both you or your baby. If you have any of the following conditions, your doctor will almost certainly advise you against travel:

• Placental abruption  
• Preeclampsia
• You're in preterm or active labor
• Cervical insufficiency  (incompetent cervix)
• Premature rupture of membranes (PROM)
• A suspected ectopic pregnancy
• Vaginal bleeding

You might also need to be extra-cautious or skip travel if you're experiencing intrauterine growth restriction , you have placenta previa , or you have other conditions that may place your pregnancy at a higher risk. It’s always a good idea to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider before travel regarding any medical conditions you have, and they'll be able to advise you on what's best, depending on the trip.

The sweet spot for pregnancy travel is during your second trimester , between 14 weeks and 27 weeks. By the second trimester, any struggles you’ve had with morning sickness and fatigue during the earlier weeks of pregnancy should have hopefully subsided – and after 12 weeks, your risk of miscarriage decreases significantly as well. And you're not too far along to worry about third trimester exhaustion or going into preterm labor yet, either.

Your energy levels are likely to be good during your second trimester too (bring on the sightseeing!), and it will still be relatively easy and comfortable for you to travel and move around at this time. Keep in mind that once you hit that third trimester, pregnancy travel might be more difficult as you find it harder to move around and stay still for long periods of time.

It's complicated (and often a personal decision based on your own risk factors), but the CDC says that if you're fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you can travel. Of course, it's important you still do everything you can to keep yourself and others around you safe, including following all mask-wearing and social distancing guidelines in the destination you visit.

Women are at an increased risk for severe illness if they contract COVID-19 while pregnant , and they're more likely to experience preterm birth and other poor pregnancy outcomes. (This is why the CDC, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine all recommend that women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or are planning on becoming pregnant get the COVID vaccine .)

If you're vaccinated and decide to travel, the CDC advises avoiding international destinations that are designated Level 4, due to high rates of local COVID-19 transmission.

Take all this information into account and talk to your doctor before you decide on where and when to travel while you're pregnant. And if you experience any symptoms of COVID-19, whether while traveling or at home, call your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

The guidelines for when to stop traveling while you're pregnant vary based on your mode of travel, but more or less, you should wrap up travel before you're 36 weeks pregnant.

Most airlines will let pregnant women fly domestically until they're 36 weeks pregnant – and many cut that off earlier for international travel. This rule is often enforced on an honor system policy, but some airlines may ask for a doctor’s note – so make sure you have that from your healthcare provider if you're traveling in the third trimester, just in case.

Most cruise ships don't allow travel after 24 weeks of pregnancy. Some cruise lines' cutoff dates vary, so verify policies before booking a cruise.

As for road trips, there's no official deadline for when you need to stop traveling, but your personal comfort level (physically and emotionally) – and your doctor's advice – might help you decide. You can drive while pregnant all the way up until your due date, but things may get considerably less comfortable on longer trips as you approach full term.  

Travel of any kind requires advance preparation, but when you're pregnant and traveling, that pre-trip checklist gets a little longer. Give yourself a little more time than usual to plan for a trip – and use the tips below to stay safe and comfortable on your next adventure.

Before you travel

• Talk to your healthcare provider to determine if your trip is safe for you and if there are any medical concerns to consider. It's a good idea to discuss any activities you plan to do while you're away too. If you're planning an international trip, make sure to ask about any vaccines you may need for the areas you're visiting.
• Make sure you know your prenatal test schedule. Plan travels around any prenatal tests you need to schedule, including ultrasounds and other important screening tests.
• Book an aisle seat. You'll likely be more comfortable being able to get up to stretch or go to the bathroom on longer flights.
• Buy travel insurance. You don't need special travel insurance when you're pregnant, but it's never a bad idea to secure a policy. You may want to consider one with a “cancel for any reason” clause that reimburses you for money lost on cancelled trips for reasons (read: any reason) beyond what’s listed on the base policy. Check with your personal health insurance, too, to make sure it covers potential pregnancy complications while traveling internationally (some don’t). Consider adding evacuation insurance as part of a travel insurance plan, too.
• Gather your medical records and health information . If you’re in your second or third trimester, ask your ob-gyn or midwife for a digital copy of your prenatal chart, and have that easily accessible during your trip. Typically, this chart includes your age, your blood type, the name and contact information for your healthcare provider, the date of your last menstrual period, your due date, information about any prior pregnancies, your risk factors for disease, results of pregnancy-related lab tests (including ultrasounds or other imaging tests), your medical and surgical history, and a record of vital signs taken at each visit.
• Keep a list of key names and numbers you may need in the event of an emergency saved on your phone and written on a piece of paper (in case your battery dies).
• Have a contingency plan for doctors and hospitals that will take your insurance where you're going in case you go into labor early or experience pregnancy complications that require urgent care while you're away from home.
• Pack medicines and prenatal vitamins. That might include an extended supply of prescriptions and over-the-counter remedies , too. Bring enough to cover your entire trip and a written prescription that you can fill if you lose anything. It's a good idea to keep prescription medicine in its original container, so if your bags are searched it will be clear that you're not using medication without a prescription.
• Prepare for the unexpected. On a road trip, that might mean an unexpected breakdown, so join an auto club that provides roadside assistance. Download any apps you use for renting cars and accessing boarding passes before you leave so you can easily reschedule things in the event of a last-minute cancellation.
• If you're flying during your third trimester, be sure to call the airline to check about the cutoff week for pregnancy travel. A note from your doctor that says you’re cleared to travel is always good to have when traveling during your third trimester.

During your trip

• Drink plenty of water and continue to eat healthy foods . Keep in mind that many restaurants abroad commonly serve unpasteurized foods (like soft cheeses and milk), which can be dangerous for pregnant women due to the presence of listeria.
• Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat or fish , drinks with ice (which may be contaminated), non-bottled water, and other foods that can cause traveler's diarrhea, which can be more of a problem for pregnant women than other people.
• On long flights and drives, take time to stretch by pulling over for a walk or strolling up and down the airplane aisle. And when seated, always wear your seat belt .
• Maternity compression socks are handy to have along – both in transit and worn under your clothes while you’re out and about exploring – because they can ease the symptoms of swollen feet and legs. These are a few of our favorite pregnancy compression socks .
• Take advantage of help. Many countries have dedicated lines in shops and airports for pregnant travelers, so don't feel any shame taking a shorter wait if you see one.
• Go easy on yourself. Remember, you're growing a baby. You might not have quite the stamina for sightseeing and late nights like you used to pre-pregnancy. Make the most of your vacation but don't fret you miss out on things because you need more downtime from exploring than you usually would.
• Don’t forget to get photos of your bump. When your baby is older, you'll have fun showing them all the places you traveled with them before they were born.
• Go for the comfy shoes. Travel during pregnancy is the best reason ever to forgo those strappy stilettos for your favorite sneakers .
• Pack snacks so you always have something to curb your appetite if there’s a long wait for a restaurant or you get stuck in transit or someplace remote with no food offerings.
• Try to be in the moment with your travel partners as much as possible. Once your baby is born, your attention will be pulled in a whole new direction.

If you have any medical concerns traveling while pregnant, don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and call your doctor for advice. The below are a few symptoms that definitely warrant calling your ob-gyn or health care provider or seeking emergency care while traveling or at home:

• Signs of pre-term labor (including a constant, low dull backache, bleeding, etc.)
• Ruptured membranes (your water breaks)
• Severe cramping
• Spiking blood pressure
• Severe nausea or vomiting
• COVID-19 symptoms

Was this article helpful?

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BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

AAFP. 2020. Ultrasound during pregnancy. American Academy of Family Physicians.  https://familydoctor.org/ultrasound-during-pregnancy/ Opens a new window [Accessed April 2023]

ACOG. 2020. FAQ055: Travel during pregnancy. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.  https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/travel-during-pregnancy Opens a new window [Accessed April 2023]

CDC. 2019. Pregnant Travelers. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/family-travel/pregnant-travelers Opens a new window [Accessed April 2023]

CDC. 2022. Domestic Travel During Covid-19. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-during-covid19.html Opens a new window [Accessed April 2023]

CDC 2023. International Travel During Covid-19. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel-during-covid19.html Opens a new window [Accessed April 2023]

CDC. 2022. Covid-19: Pregnant and Recently Pregnant People. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/pregnant-people.html Opens a new window [Accessed April 2023]

Terry Ward is a freelance travel, health, and parenting writer who has covered everything from flying with toddlers to why you should travel with your kids even when they're too young to remember it. She lives in Tampa, Florida, with her husband and their young son and daughter, and enjoys camping, sailing, scuba diving, skiing, and almost anything else done in the great outdoors.

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Travel Safety During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, it's generally safe for pregnant women to travel safely, but some precautions must be taken depending on where you are traveling and your state of pregnancy and health.

Pregnancy changes affecting travel

Pregnant women experience physiologic changes that require special consideration during travel. These include weight gain, having to use the bathroom frequently, and trouble carrying heavy things. In addition, pregnant women should be aware of potential infections that can be contracted in some countries. These areas should be avoided.

General precautions when traveling

• Be careful about what you are eating and drinking
• Use 4-wheel luggage that's easy to move around
• Prevent bug bites
• Stay safe outdoors
• Keep away from animals
• Reduce your exposure to germs
• Avoid sharing body fluids
• Know how to get medical care while traveling
• Select safe transportation
• Maintain personal security

Travel precautions with high-risk pregnancies 

Most doctors feel it's safe to travel during the first 8 months of pregnancy u nless you have a high-risk pregnancy . The main concerns with travel during pregnancy are:

• Risk of preterm delivery
• Access to medical care
• Food concerns
• Communicable diseases
• Getting enough exercise and fluids
• Maintaining a healthy diet

If you have any medical or obstetric complications, such as the risk for preterm birth, poorly controlled diabetes, placental problems, or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure , your provider may recommend to not travel during your pregnancy.

Generally, in low-risk pregnancies the safest time to travel during pregnancy is in the second trimester (13 to 28 weeks) .

If you plan to travel, discuss the trip with your health care provider. Talk about the distance and length of the trip, the mode of travel, and any suggestions for things you should or should not do before, during, and after the trip.

Generally, the safest time to travel during pregnancy is the second trimester (13 to 28 weeks). At this time you probably feel your best and you are in the least danger of having a miscarriage or premature labor. While traveling in and by itself is unlikely to increase your risks, there is always a possibility of complications, especially premature labor and delivery. So you need to ask yourself whether you feel safe having a baby wherever you are traveling to.

Avoid traveling any long distance during the last 2 or 3 weeks before your due date. If labor starts early, you will want to be close to home.

What are the general guidelines for travel during pregnancy?

• See your health care provider just before you leave on your trip. Ask your provider if you will need any prenatal care visits while you are traveling, and if so, where you might go for prenatal care.
• Take a copy of your prenatal record with you.
• Ask your health care provider for the name of a doctor in the city or area you will be visiting.
• Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes and loose-fitting clothes.
• Eat healthy meals and snacks. Meals may be unpredictable while traveling. Carry snacks with you. Eat enough fiber in your meals to avoid constipation.
• Drink plenty of water. Carry a water bottle with you.
• Do not take any medicines, including nonprescription medicines, without your health care provider's permission.
• Get up and walk often while you are traveling. Stop walking when you are tired.
• Get enough sleep and rest to avoid tiredness. Sleep on a firm mattress.
• If you have to sit for a long time, alternate pointing and raising your feet often. Walking and moving your arms improves blood flow in your body. This prevents blood clots from forming in the legs and pelvis.
• Keep your travel plans as flexible as possible. Problems may develop at the last minute and you might have to cancel your trip. Unless it is absolutely necessary, do not plan any trips during the third trimester of your pregnancy.

What are the guidelines for traveling by car?

Do not ride in the car for more than 6 hours each day. Stop every 1 to 2 hours for some exercise, such as walking.

• Always wear a seatbelt. A seat belt is safe for both the mother and baby when worn properly. If the seat belt is only a lap belt, place it below your abdomen. If you have a shoulder and lap belt, place the lap portion under your abdomen and the shoulder belt across your shoulder and between the breasts. Be sure that the seat belt fits snugly. Airbags are safe but you must also wear the seat belt. The gas used in airbags won't hurt you or the baby. If you are in an accident, you should see a doctor to make sure you and your baby are fine.
• Adjust your seat as far from the dashboard or steering wheel as possible.
• Motorcycle travel is not recommended during pregnancy.

What if I am traveling by bus or train?

• You may have less opportunity to walk every couple of hours when you travel by bus. Take advantage of any stops the bus makes to get some exercise.
• When you are traveling by train, get up and walk every hour or two.
• Remember that there are fewer bathrooms on a bus than a train.
• The motion of a train ride will not cause any problems with the pregnancy, and it won't start labor either.

Are there special concerns for traveling by air?

Flying is usually a safe way to travel. Most domestic airlines will allow a pregnant woman to fly up to the 36th week of pregnancy if there are no problems with the pregnancy. Each airline has policies regarding pregnancy and flying. Check with your airline when you reserve your tickets to see if you need to complete any medical forms.

Suggested guidelines for traveling by air:

• Try to get an aisle seat at the bulkhead (the wall that separates first class from coach) to have the most space and comfort. If you are more concerned about a smoother ride, you may prefer a seat over the wing in the midplane region.
• Wear layered clothing because the temperature in the cabin may change during the flight.
• Drink a lot of fluids because the air in the plane can be very dry.
• If you want a special meal on the plane, you can usually order it in advance on most flights.
• Eat small meals to help avoid air sickness.
• During smooth flights, walk every half hour and flex and stretch your ankles often to avoid swelling.
• Wear a seat belt below your abdomen whenever you are in your seat.
• Get extra rest after long flights to help avoid jet lag.

Are there any problems with traveling by sea or ship?

Seasickness is a concern for many people traveling by sea. Your healthcare provider may recommend a medicine that helps prevent motion sickness and is safe during pregnancy. You might also consider trying acupressure wristbands.

Be aware that the medical services on a ship are very limited.

What are the guidelines for traveling internationally?

You should not travel out of the country without discussing it first with your healthcare provider. Your provider may decide foreign travel is not safe for you. If it is safe, your provider will let you know what should be done before you leave and when you arrive at your destination. You may want to register with an American Embassy or Consulate after you arrive. It is important to make sure you have had all the shots you need for the countries you are planning to visit. Some immunizations cannot be given to pregnant women.

Make sure your health insurance is valid abroad and during pregnancy. Also, check that the policy covers a newborn if you were to give birth during your travels.

Be especially cautious about what you eat in countries where traveler's diarrhea might be a problem. Diarrhea can cause dehydration, which reduces the blood flow to the placenta and your baby.

• Do not drink untreated water, including ice cubes in drinks.
• Avoid food and beverages from street vendors.
• Only eat foods that are cooked and still hot, or fruits and vegetables that you peel yourself.
• Do not eat raw or partially cooked fish or shellfish, including dishes like ceviche. Fully cooked fish and shellfish are safe.
• Brushing your teeth with untreated water is usually safe. Most toothpaste contains antibacterial substances. Do not swallow the water.
• Carbonated soft drinks and water, bottled water, wine, and beer are usually safe without ice. Do not add ice that has been made from tap water.
• Avoid uncooked dairy products. Make sure the milk you drink is pasteurized.
• Ask your health care provider what medicines are safe to take to help prevent traveler's diarrhea when you are pregnant.

Read More: Is It Safe To Swim During Your Pregnancy? Smoking and Breastfeeding Are Saunas Safe During Pregnancy?

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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.

Related Articles

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.

Husband traveling 3 weeks before due date?

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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

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When should my husband stop traveling?

1 week before

2 weeks before

3 weeks before

1 month before

My husband travels a lot for work and ever since I've been pregnant I've been telling him that he is going to need to slow it down when it gets close to my due date.  I'm terrified of child birth and I cannot imagine going through it alone.  I don't have any family or close friends that live near me that could be a stand-in if he isn't home when I go into labor.  So he thinks that he HAS to travel when I'm 36-37 weeks...should I put my foot down and tell him he has to start making some sacrifices?  I know it is his job and I want to be supportive, but at the same time I don't know if I could forgive him if he missed the birth of our first child, much less made me go through labor and delivery alone.  He seems to think that he will be able to make it home in time, but I don't want him just showing up for my last push...I want him to be there for the 12 hours of labor too!  He is traveling a 2 hour drive and 2-3 hour flight away from where we live, so there is always the possibility that I go into labor in the middle of the night, he can't get a flight, who knows what else.

So I'd like some opinions...am I being overly dramatic?  He also seems to have it in his mind that all first pregnancies are late...advice he was given by two of his (male) friends.

19 comments

I used to do work that required our guys to travel alot.  And there were probably 20 babies born while I was there.  It was standard there that in a normal pg, once the wife hit 36-37w, the guy was grounded until after the birth.

This was just our office though, it's not a rule or anything.  But I will say that none of them ever missed a birth!

I agree with the pp, I think anything after 36 weeks may be rolling the dice.  I know that most people will tell you that you will be "late" with your first, but I know plenty of people who have gone early with thier first child.  My water broke with my first DS at 37 weeks at 3:00 am and I had him by 7:00 am (and they were trying to slow down labor because I needed an IV for group b strep).  Let me tell you that once the contractions set in I could not have imagined driving myself to the hospital!! 

Hard to say - does his work require him to travel 100%?  Meaning can he do his job from home/office?

My husband can not... his job is travel 100% of the time.  He will more than likely either be a 3 hour drive or 3 hour plane ride away... it is going to suck, but not much we can do unless he takes unpaid time which is not really an option...

My DH travels too but he is going to be close to home for the entire months of June and July. 

Mine is currently in NV but will be home tomorrow.  He will be on the west coast for a full week when I hit 36 weeks.  DH has barely made it to both of our kids births and that was when we lived in a small town and he was less than 10 minutes away from the hospital at any given time.  Im a bit hesitant for him to be gone at my 36th week since I have delivered via csection both times at 37 weeks.  I do have 2 SILs and my across the street neighbors who will help me and get me to the hospital should something happen.  If he misses the birth im at the point that its his own loss.  I dont want him to miss the birth but Im not going to hold it against him if he does.  He thinks just because we have a scheduled csection date of July 1st he is safe to go on this business trip.  I have told him I have never made it to 38 weeks (july 1st). We will see.

I think I would insist he's grounded by the beginning of week 37.

Good question.. Seems like alot of our SO's travel for work.. My fiance travels everyday he could be 15 mins away or 3 hours away.. We're just praying that he'll be near by when the time comes or that he will make it before hand.. actually thinking about scheduleing a c-section, if we do that he will deff be here! I had a c-section with my first so we're still debating on wether or not to schedule one this time.. good luck! My first was also 4 days early.. not late at all so i dont see where people get this " their usually late with the first" idea! lol

I'm due July 27th and I'm asking dh to be home by July 14th.  I have been late with my first 2 so I'm not anticipating the baby coming by then but you never know.

I am due July 20th, and my husband is taking my son 5 hours away for a basketball camp July 12th-16th. IBasketball is a big deal in our family, and this is a camp my husband went to a lot when he was young.  They are letting him come as an instructor. My first son was induced 1 day late, so there is no telling when this one is going to come.  I hope it isn't while they're gone, but if it is, they'll just try to hurry and make it back in time.  It is going to be such a great bonding experience for my husband and son that I didn't want them to miss it, so I gave it my blessing, but it definitely worries me a little!

• Life & Career
• Working While Pregnant

When to Stop Working During Pregnancy

This is one of those (yep, another one) “everybody’s different” situations. Some moms choose to work up until the very last minute in order to save up their maternity leave days for after baby arrives. Others choose a “last day” in advance in order to have a break before their due date, or make arrangements to work from home in the final days.

We asked new moms for their take on leaving the office, and here’s what they had to say:

“I worked until the very end. My water started to leak while I was at work!” — senecamom

“I set a specific day. My last day was at 37.5 weeks. I had about a week and a half to run errands, do last minute shopping, and relax before I went into labor.” — mrsbilodeau

“I will definately work up until the last minute next time. I had an amazing pregnancy and I think its because I stayed moving.” — kbv

“My last day at work was my due date. I went into labor the next day and didn’t go in. I didn’t want to lose a single day with my baby!” — dnagal

“I worked from home the week I was due, so I didn’t have to drive to and from work and it was just easier all together.” — jomar

“Personally, if I’d had a week or month off before my EDD, I would have been bored out of my mind.” — krub

“I think that it is great to leave work a week or two early. Get a pedi and mani for goodness sake while you still can!” — GigaGal

“I quit at the six month mark, knowing that I would not be returning to work and needing some time to myself before the baby came. It was the best decision I ever made.” — MLE21707

“I was due on 11/7 and my last day was 11/8 (overdue). It was VERY uncomfortable for me, but I’m glad I made it through and didn’t use up more time than I had to. I saved it all up to be home with my baby before returning to work.” — Blushing051505

“I am glad I worked up until he arrived. I felt good, never had time to sit and think about how uncomfortable I was.” — Laroogirl

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What caused Dubai floods? Experts cite climate change, not cloud seeding

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Dubai’s Extraordinary Flooding: Here’s What to Know

Images of a saturated desert metropolis startled the world, prompting talk of cloud seeding, climate change and designing cities for intensified weather.

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By Raymond Zhong

Scenes of flood-ravaged neighborhoods in one of the planet’s driest regions have stunned the world this week. Heavy rains in the United Arab Emirates and Oman submerged cars, clogged highways and killed at least 21 people. Flights out of Dubai’s airport, a major global hub, were severely disrupted.

The downpours weren’t a freak event — forecasters anticipated the storms several days out and issued warnings. But they were certainly unusual. Here’s what to know.

Heavy rain there is rare, but not unheard-of.

On average, the Arabian Peninsula receives a scant few inches of rain a year, although scientists have found that a sizable chunk of that precipitation falls in infrequent but severe bursts, not as periodic showers.

U.A.E. officials said the 24-hour rain total on Tuesday was the country’s largest since records there began in 1949 . But parts of the nation had experienced an earlier round of thunderstorms just last month.

Oman, with its coastline on the Arabian Sea, is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones. Past storms there have brought torrential rain, powerful winds and mudslides, causing extensive damage.

Global warming is projected to intensify downpours.

Stronger storms are a key consequence of human-caused global warming. As the atmosphere gets hotter, it can hold more moisture, which can eventually make its way down to the earth as rain or snow.

But that doesn’t mean rainfall patterns are changing in precisely the same way across every corner of the globe.

In their latest assessment of climate research , scientists convened by the United Nations found there wasn’t enough data to have firm conclusions about rainfall trends in the Arabian Peninsula and how climate change was affecting them. The researchers said, however, that if global warming were to be allowed to continue worsening in the coming decades, extreme downpours in the region would quite likely become more intense and more frequent.

The role of cloud seeding isn’t clear.

The U.A.E. has for decades worked to increase rainfall and boost water supplies by seeding clouds. Essentially, this involves shooting particles into clouds to encourage the moisture to gather into larger, heavier droplets, ones that are more likely to fall as rain or snow.

Cloud seeding and other rain-enhancement methods have been tried across the world, including in Australia, China, India, Israel, South Africa and the United States. Studies have found that these operations can, at best, affect precipitation modestly — enough to turn a downpour into a bigger downpour, but probably not a drizzle into a deluge.

Still, experts said pinning down how much seeding might have contributed to this week’s storms would require detailed study.

“In general, it is quite a challenge to assess the impact of seeding,” said Luca Delle Monache, a climate scientist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, Calif. Dr. Delle Monache has been leading efforts to use artificial intelligence to improve the U.A.E.’s rain-enhancement program.

An official with the U.A.E.’s National Center of Meteorology, Omar Al Yazeedi, told news outlets this week that the agency didn’t conduct any seeding during the latest storms. His statements didn’t make clear, however, whether that was also true in the hours or days before.

Mr. Al Yazeedi didn’t respond to emailed questions from The New York Times on Thursday, and Adel Kamal, a spokesman for the center, didn’t immediately have further comment.

Cities in dry places just aren’t designed for floods.

Wherever it happens, flooding isn’t just a matter of how much rain comes down. It’s also about what happens to all that water once it’s on the ground — most critically, in the places people live.

Cities in arid regions often aren’t designed to drain very effectively. In these areas, paved surfaces block rain from seeping into the earth below, forcing it into drainage systems that can easily become overwhelmed.

One recent study of Sharjah , the capital of the third-largest emirate in the U.A.E., found that the city’s rapid growth over the past half century had made it vulnerable to flooding at far lower levels of rain than before.

Omnia Al Desoukie contributed reporting.

Raymond Zhong reports on climate and environmental issues for The Times. More about Raymond Zhong