Are you planning to fly for a celebratory babymoon? Many first-time parents often go on vacation to spend some quality time before their bundle of joy arrives.
Air travel during pregnancy is generally safe. However, pregnancy symptoms like mood swings, increased urination, and sudden leg cramps can make air travel challenging.
It is pretty common for women to experience flying anxiety with the responsibility for the safety of their unborn child. Enrolling in a flying anxiety course can get you a clear sense of what to expect during the flight and enjoy air travel.
1. Travel during the safest stage of pregnancy
During pregnancy, the idea of travelling can be frightening, but it’s doable if you travel during the right stage of your pregnancy.
As per an article published on an American website, Healthline Media, Inc., if you are enjoying a healthy pregnancy with no complications, air travel is likely safe until 36 weeks.
However, every airline has different guidelines for air travel during pregnancy. So check with your airline in advance to know if there are any special policies for pregnant women.
Pro tip: Avoid travelling in smaller, non-pressurized planes at any stage of pregnancy as the low oxygen level may affect your baby.
2. Pack smartly
Pack like a pro to make the air travel as comfortable as possible during pregnancy.
Some of the things to keep in your hand luggage are:
- Healthy snacks, like fruits and nuts;
- Large refillable water bottle;
- A neck pillow and an eye mask to combat fatigue;
- Essential medicines;
- Extra clothing;
- Important documents;
- Novel or podcast.
Above all, pack light and smart to avoid heavy lifting during pregnancy if you’re travelling alone.
3. Wear comfy clothes during flight
During pregnancy, dress smartly since your body regulates itself at different temperatures.
Wearing something loose such as a maxi dress with a long sweater is a good combination.
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pregnant women are 5 times more likely to develop blood clots as compared to women who are not.
To deal with this situation, wear in-flight compression stockings to boost circulation and curtail the risk of blood clot formation.
4. Eat healthy and stay hydrated
It’s very important to eat healthily and stay hydrated before, during, and after the flight.
Some of the tips to follow are:
- Avoid carbonated drinks and alcohol;
- Avoid caffeine;
- Drink plenty of water;
- Avoid overeating at mealtimes and overly salty foods;
- Have vitamin-rich fresh fruits and vegetables.
Above all, free meals during flight may not be healthy for you. So it’s better to carry your own healthy, fibre-rich, energy-boosting food.
5. Meet your gynaecologist before travelling
A few days before your trip, meet your gynaecologist and ask for an emergency plan for unlikely situations that may happen while you’re away.
For instance, if you are flying to a destination having high altitudes there are chances you may suffer from morning sickness nausea. In such a case, the doctor can suggest you some medicines to deal with the situation.
It’s always good to inform your doctor about your future travelling plans to avoid any complications.
In the end…
Follow these precautions before and during your flight to stay safe and to minimise risks.
Above all, after reaching your destination, book a body massage to thank your body for its hard work.
Take care of yourself – after all, you’re carrying a precious gift inside you.
Have a safe journey!