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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.

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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.

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.

Pregnancy Classes

pregnancy and travel | American Pregnancy Association

Travel During Pregnancy

As long as there are no identified complications or concerns with your pregnancy, it is generally safe to travel during your pregnancy. The ideal time to travel during pregnancy is the second trimester . In most cases, you are past the morning sickness of the first trimester and several weeks from the third stage of pregnancy when you are more easily fatigued .

Is it safe to travel during pregnancy?

Traveling by air is considered safe for women while they are pregnant; however, the following ideas might make your trip safer and more comfortable.

Most airlines allow pregnant women to travel through their eighth month. Traveling during the ninth month is usually allowed if there is permission from your health care provider.
Most airlines have narrow aisles and smaller bathrooms, which makes it more challenging to walk and more uncomfortable when using the restroom. Because of potential turbulence that could shake the plane, make sure you are holding on to the seatbacks while navigating the aisle.
You may want to choose an aisle seat which will allow you to get up more easily to reach the restroom or just to stretch your legs and back.
Travel on major airlines with pressurized cabins and avoid smaller private planes. If you must ride in smaller planes, avoid altitudes above 7,000 feet.
Although doubtful, the risk of DVT can be further reduced by wearing compression stockings.

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the International Air Travel Association recommend that expecting mothers in an uncomplicated pregnancy avoid travel from the 37th week of pregnancy through birth. Avoiding travel from 32 weeks through birth is recommended for women who have complicated pregnancies with risk factors for premature labor, such as mothers carrying multiples.

Risk factors that warrant travel considerations include the following:

Severe anemia
Cardiac disease
Respiratory disease
Recent hemorrhage
Current or recent bone fractures

Traveling by Sea During Pregnancy

Traveling by sea is generally safe for women while they are pregnant; the motion of the boat may accentuate any morning sickness or make you feel nauseous all over again. There are a few considerations to make your trip safer and more comfortable:

Check with the cruise line to ensure that there is a health care provider on board in case there are any pregnancy complications .
Review the route and port-of-calls to identify if there is access to any medical facilities if needed.
Make sure any medications for seasickness are approved for women who are pregnant and that there is no risk to the developing baby.
Seasickness bands use acupressure points to help prevent upset stomach and maybe a good alternative to medication.

International Travel During Pregnancy

Traveling overseas has the same considerations that local or domestic travel has, but it also has additional concerns that you need to know about before making an international trip. The information below is provided to help you assess whether an international trip is good for you at this time:

It is important to talk with your health care provider before you take a trip internationally to discuss safety factors for you and your baby.
Discuss immunizations with your health care provider and carry a copy of your health records with you.
With international travel, you may be exposed to a disease that is rare here in the United States but is common in the country you visit.
Contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at (800) 311-3435 or visit their website at www.cdc.gov to receive safety information along with immunization facts related to your travels.
Diarrhea is a common concern when traveling overseas because you may not be used to the germs and organisms found in the food and water of other countries. This can lead to a problem of dehydration .

Here are some tips to avoid diarrhea and help keep you safe:

Drink plenty of bottled water
Used canned juices or soft drinks as alternatives
Make sure the milk is pasteurized
Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables unless they have been cooked or can be peeled (such as an orange or a banana)
Make certain that all meat and fish has been cooked completely; if you are unsure, do not eat it

Travel Tips During Pregnancy

Whether you are going by car, bus, or train, it is generally safe to travel while you are pregnant; however, there are some things to consider that could make your trip safer and more comfortable.

It is essential to buckle-up every time you ride in a car. Make sure that you use both the lap and shoulder belts for the best protection of you and your baby.
Keep the airbags turned on. The safety benefits of the airbag outweigh any potential risk to you and your baby.
Buses tend to have narrow aisles and small restrooms. This mode of transportation can be more challenging. The safest thing is to remain seated while the bus is moving. If you must use the restroom, make sure to hold on to the rail or seats to keep your balance.
Trains usually have more room to navigate and walk. The restrooms are usually small. It is essential to hold on to rails or seat backs while the train is moving.
Try to limit the amount of time you are cooped up in the car, bus, or train. Keep travel time around five to six hours.
Use rest stops to take short walks and to do stretches to keep the blood circulating.
Dress comfortably in loose cotton clothing and wear comfortable shoes.
Take your favorite pillow.
Plan for plenty of rest stops, restroom breaks and stretches.
Carry snack foods with you.
If you are traveling any distance, make sure to carry a copy of your prenatal records.
Enjoy the trip.

Want to Know More?

How to Treat Jet Lag Naturally During Pregnancy

Compiled using information from the following sources:

1. Planning Your Pregnancy and Birth Third Ed. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Ch. 5. William’s Obstetrics Twenty-Second Ed. Cunningham, F. Gary, et al, Ch. 8.

2. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, Air Travel and Pregnancy (Scientific Impact Paper No. 1), https://www.rcog.org/uk, May 22, 2013.

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Traveling While Pregnant

Planning to travel while you're pregnant? You'll want to know what's safe, what isn't, and which precautions to take before, during, and after your trip.

There are several factors that can affect travel during your pregnancy: your pregnancy stage when the trip is planned; whether there have been any complications during the pregnancy; the type of travel; and the distance that the trip will take you from home.

Pregnancy Stage: Travel Implications

Travel during the first and second trimesters is usually considered to be safe, although it may be more tiring than usual.

Traveling during the first trimester of pregnancy may pose a few challenges, especially if you're experiencing morning sickness, nausea, or fatigue. And the risk of bleeding or miscarriage is the greatest during these months.

The second trimester is the time in your pregnancy when you probably feel the best and have the most energy. This is a great time for a trip. In fact, vacationing with your partner during this period might be an ideal chance to spend some fun time alone together before the baby arrives!

Travel in the third trimester may be uncomfortable and can be risky, because you could go into labor many miles away from your own healthcare providers and hospital. Some airlines do not let women fly during their last month of pregnancy without a doctor's letter of permission. Quite often, that letter must be written within 72 hours of flight time.

Types of Travel

Traveling by car is likely to be the most comfortable means of getting around during pregnancy. When driving or riding in a car, stop every hour or two and walk around to stretch your legs — this will promote good circulation. Remember to always fasten your seat belt. Place the lap belt portion under your abdomen and position the shoulder harness between your breasts.

Flying shouldn't cause any problems in your first two trimesters. Be sure to:

Plan your schedule so that you're not rushed and have plenty of time between connecting flights

Request an aisle seat so that you have a little more room and can easily get to the bathroom as needed.

Walk up and down the aisle every hour or so to promote circulation in your legs.

While sitting, flex your feet toward your face and make circles with your feet.

Wearing support hose or flight socks also stimulates circulation in your legs when you have to sit for long periods of time.

Drink enough fluids to stay well hydrated.

Travel by boat, particularly if it's a large cruise ship, also should pose no particular problems in the first two trimesters. And most cruise ships have medical personnel aboard should you need assistance. If you're sensitive to motion, you might want to take medication to prevent motion sickness; ask your healthcare provider what would be safe to take during pregnancy. You can also wear the anti-nausea acupressure wristbands that are available over-the-counter at your pharmacy.

Long Distance and International Travel

If you plan to travel far from home, you can be prepared by being sure there are good sources of medical care at your destination. Take your pregnancy records with you, including tests you've had done, medications you're taking, your blood type, and any other information that might be helpful when you're out of town.

If you have to travel out of the country, it is important to take copies of your prescriptions for medications, in case your medications become lost. Be sure your immunizations are up to date before planning a trip to countries where vaccinations are necessary; also, keep in mind that some vaccines may not be safe to update during pregnancy.

Be aware that changes in climate or altitude and types of food could cause you more discomfort when you're pregnant. Limit exertion for a couple days after your arrival at your destination, particularly if the climate is hot or the altitude is high; this will allow your body to adjust to these changes.

In addition to the above considerations, always consult your healthcare provider before planning a trip, particularly if you'll be experiencing changes in altitude. She may be able to give you a medical contact in the area of your destination, in case you'd need to see a physician while you're away from home.

With a little advance planning and some wise precautions, travel during your pregnancy can be safe and enjoyable. Bon voyage!

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Where You Already Belong

What to expect when traveling in each trimester of pregnancy

So you're pregnant? Congrats! It's an exciting time but also one in which many aspects of your life will begin to change, including travel. While you'll quickly need to understand the airline industry's rules for flying while pregnant , there are some more personal tips I'd like to share with you based on my experience traveling throughout the first, second and third trimesters of both of my pregnancies.

A few truths about pregnancy

Picky, starving moms need to travel with snacks.

I didn't know I was pregnant when I took the first flight of my second pregnancy. I was on a mileage run from Houston to Los Angeles, and by the time we landed, I was super tired, kinda grumpy and oh-my-so-hungry.

Then began a mad search for food. Luckily, Counter Burger was open and serving up sweet potato fries and burgers. Out of habit, I went for the veggie burger but I quickly regretted my decision, which left me far from satisfied with ground-up veggie mush.

In the early stages of pregnancy, your normal travel habits of going a little hungry for a while, or making due with what's around, may not work well.

Throughout your pregnancy, travel with water to stay hydrated and snacks to stave off hunger pangs and keep you going through travel delays. If you're feeling particularly food sensitive, research the food options at your destination ahead of time. I virtually lived on chicken noodle soup for a whole week early in my pregnancy and then, for a couple of days, all I wanted were hush puppies. I know how to get those items at home but when you are on the road, you either need to do more research or be more flexible -- which is sometimes easier said than done.

Related: 4 tips for planning travel while planning a pregnancy

Research and make choices about inflight radiation and other risks

I'm not an expert, but because I fly often, I have given some thought to inflight radiation exposure , especially during the early stages of pregnancy.

For pregnant flight attendants and pilots, the Federal Aviation Administration recommends a limit of 1 mSv during pregnancy, with no more than 0.5 mSv per month. I don't fly as much as an airline employee, but it doesn't take much research to learn that the amount of radiation you (and your gestating baby) are exposed to in the air varies dramatically from route to route. The highest-level routes are typically longer, higher-altitude polar routes. Here's some information from NASA about polar flights and radiation .

Every expectant mother should discuss the risks of flying during pregnancy with her doctor before getting on a plane. For me, nine months was a tiny moment in my traveling life, so I was OK adjusting my behavior a bit out of an abundance of caution. However, I didn't adjust to the point of never leaving my house. We still flew when I was pregnant, but I was judicious about when and where I would fly.

Check your health insurance policy

If you aren't familiar with your medical insurance coverage for when you travel, brush up on those facts now. Look at in-network and out-of-network benefits, as well as coverage for procedures for medical emergencies in other countries, if relevant. Most likely, if you do have coverage for treatment in other countries, you will still be on the hook to pay for your care up front and then submit for reimbursement from your health insurer. Plan accordingly and plan for the unexpected. If your baby decides to arrive early, for instance, check to make sure your insurance would cover possible extended and expensive care in an intensive care unit in a hospital away from your home.

Be sure to check what your health insurance coverage provides if you deliver at another facility later in your pregnancy. I once had an insurance plan that specifically did not cover out-of-network deliveries after 36 weeks, so that is something you would want to know before venturing away from home late in pregnancy.

Consider travel insurance

Trip insurance can be helpful if you are traveling while pregnant. Read the plan's fine print to determine what might be covered and whether you are covered if you already knew you were pregnant when you purchased the plan. Typically, a normal pregnancy or normal delivery would not be covered but if there are unexpected complications with the pregnancy, then related trip-cancellation or trip-interruption coverage may kick in on certain plans in certain situations.

Here are some travel insurance providers to check out: Allianz Travel Insurance, Travel Guard and Travelex Insurance . You can also compare a variety of plans at a portal like SquareMouth .

Here are some articles that will help you brush up on your travel insurance knowledge:

The best travel insurance policies and providers
What is independent travel insurance and when is it worth it?
When to buy travel insurance versus when to rely on credit card protections
Is credit card travel insurance sufficient on its own?
Why I buy travel insurance

Traveling in the first trimester

Traveling in the first trimester can range from "no big deal" to "I think I'm going to die from misery right this very instant." Symptoms in early pregnancy can vary widely and can change by the day. A flight in your first trimester may be no different from any other flight you've ever taken or it may feel like you are flying with the worst hangover of your life.

Unless you are very high risk or have other extenuating medical issues, your doctor will probably give you the green light to travel in early pregnancy. Feeling extra tired, nauseous and queasy doesn't make for the perfect travel experience, so here are some tips to make travel easier:

Pick an aisle seat and move about the cabin

When you do hit the skies early on, choose a seat where you will be the most comfortable, likely an aisle seat so you can get to the restroom easily. I also recommend getting up to walk around and stretch your legs. (Here are tips for credit cards that will defeat basic economy and let you get a seat assignment in advance.)

Room service come to the rescue

In my first trimester of my second pregnancy, I went on a trip with my daughter and parents to New York City to see the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and I was met with another challenge. I was at the point in my pregnancy when I needed food immediately upon waking or I was going to get queasy. Since I was staying in a hotel room with my young daughter, this meant room service. I also had granola bars and fruit on hand, but that was not enough to really do the trick some mornings. Had my husband been there, he could have gone in search of a warm bagel and juice, but since he wasn't on this trip, we had to improvise. Thanks goodness Marriott elite status helped defray the cost of most of the breakfast!

Take it easy when you need to

Once you are further along in your pregnancy and you actually look pregnant, you will sometimes get a little sympathy or, at least, empathy while traveling. Strangers may offer to help with your bag and people may have more patience with you if you're moving slowly. However, in the first trimester nobody can tell you are pregnant, and no one is going to feel sorry for you. If you act queasy on the plane, you will pretty much be treated like you have Ebola, and any other issue or ailment will pretty much not interest anyone. I once told the flight attendant I was pregnant when she was giving me the eye about looking queasy.

Take care of yourself, don't overdo it and know when to say enough is enough. You may be used to very busy travel days, but now find yourself needing a nap during your first trimester, and that's OK. Listen to your body and adjust accordingly.

Traveling in the second trimester

You have probably heard that the second trimester is generally the easiest of the three trimesters for most expecting moms. You usually aren't as sick and or as tired as in the first trimester, and you aren't as large, uncomfortable and exhausted as in the third trimester. From roughly weeks 13 to 27 of a pregnancy, your activity and comfort levels are often good, and this means that it can be a great time to travel. Couples that like to take "babymoons" (one last couples trip before the baby arrives) often try to schedule them in the second trimester.

Related: The best babymoon destinations for every month of the year

The beginning and end of the second trimester are quite different

You will probably enter the second trimester not really looking pregnant, and end it looking quite different. This means that you may feel very different at the beginning and end of the second trimester. The second trimester is when lots of belly growing happens and this can mean that some types of travel will be more uncomfortable toward the end of these few months of pregnancy than at the beginning.

Consider where you are comfortable traveling

A very personal and important decision to make during the second trimester is to determine if there are certain restrictions you will place on yourself in terms of where you're comfortable traveling. Some types of travel will ban women from traveling during the second trimester. For example, many cruise lines will not allow a woman to book a cruise if she will enter her 24th week of pregnancy (or later) while on the voyage.

Royal Caribbean's policy bars pregnant women from sailing at and after the 24th week. It was developed in concert with the Cruise Lines International Association endorsement of the American College of Emergency Physicians Health Care Guidelines for Cruise Ship Medical Facilities .

Many consider unborn fetuses to be viable if born beginning around 24 weeks (though that age threshold is getting earlier and earlier). This means that a baby born at 24 weeks gestation would have anywhere from a 50% to 70% chance of survival outside the womb if (and only if) there is immediate access to advanced medical care. A cruise ship clearly doesn't have an advanced neonatal care unit on board, so presumably the policy is related to why cruise lines draw the line for pregnant passengers.

I personally draw the line for travel at 23 or 24 weeks when talking about destinations that don't have the same level of advanced medical care as the United States -- or long flights or a flight path that could hinder prompt access to advanced medical care if I happened to unexpectedly go into labor. The Maldives is an example of somewhere I would not want to travel in this instance because there would be significant delays in obtaining medical care on these remote islands.

Plan big, but not too big

The second trimester is a great time to squeeze in a pre-baby trip or two since you will probably feel relatively like to your pre-pregnant self much of the time. We went to Aruba when I was 14 weeks pregnant and it was a fantastic trip. I had lots of energy and a normal appetite. Flying was not uncomfortable because my belly was still pretty small and the only real adjustment was to make sure I had a somewhat larger bathing suit before the trip.

At 23 weeks, I traveled to Spain and still felt pretty energetic and "normal." I will admit that the flight in economy wasn't super comfortable since I did have a belly that was hindering curling up in positions that usually help me sleep on the plane, but our time on the ground in Spain wasn't really impacted at all by the pregnancy other than missing out on the Spanish wine.

The great thing about both of those trips was that they were at my own pace. This meant that if I didn't feel like doing much one afternoon, I could take it easy. Even though you may feel great in the second trimester, you can still tire more quickly than normal, so be sure to limit your vacation activities to those you can manage. There are also activities that some doctors might advise against by the second trimester like thrill rides, scuba diving or horseback riding, so double-check any restrictions before planning more adventurous outings.

Traveling in the third trimester

Pregnancy isn't an illness or disease. For many families, it's just a normal phase in a woman's life before a new baby joins the family. Assuming things are going well, it's not a time when you have to cancel all travel. However, once the third trimester rolls around, travel can get a more complicated and does eventually have to stop.

The beginning and end of the third trimester are quite different

Changes come even more quickly in the third trimester. You enter the third trimester about 28 weeks pregnant and end it with a newborn. This means that types of travel that are possible at 27 and 28 weeks pregnant may be inadvisable, or even prohibited, at 37 and 38 weeks pregnant.

Select destinations and activities carefully

In the final months of pregnancy, some activities are probably going to be more comfortable and enjoyable than others. For example, swimming and spa time may be exactly what you need.

I give strong preference to visiting beach and resort destinations in the final trimester. Trust me when I say that few activities are as comfortable in the third trimester as floating in the water! We went to The Phoenician (a Marriott property) in Scottsdale, Arizona, when I was about 31 weeks pregnant and even with my big belly, it was the perfect mix of spa, swimming and fun activities for our 5 year old before both our lives changed.

You are going to get uncomfortable

Maybe this isn't universal and there are some magical creatures out there who never feel uncomfortable during pregnancy, but every mom I know eventually hit a point in her pregnancy when she wasn't comfortable. For many, this means that sitting for an extended time in a small airline seat, standing in long lines or trekking around in the heat to explore a city all day eventually become pretty miserable activities.

No one can tell you when you will hit that point, but it will likely happen in the third trimester. For me, my back started giving me a bunch of trouble at around week 30 or 31. I was incredibly grateful there were no more flights scheduled during that pregnancy beyond that point.

If you are going to fly during the later weeks of your third trimester and have the ability to secure a more comfortable seat up front, or at least one with extra legroom so you can stretch out, it may well be a good investment in your comfort. I brought a tennis ball with me when I flew so I could give myself a bit of a "back massage" against the airplane seat.

Bring your own pillows

Sleep becomes a challenge in the third trimester for many women and a pillow fort of sorts becomes a necessity to get some good shut-eye. Many pregnant moms find that using some sort of body pillow or pillow arrangement helps to keep their bellies supported and comfortable at night. You can't assume that the hotel will have similar pillows, so bring your own if they become essential to good rest in your third trimester. I had no shame in hauling my pillow fort with me on our last road trip at eight months pregnant.

See if you are allowed to fly

Even if your doctor OKs it, many airlines have rules about women flying in the third trimester. Check out airline rules for traveling while pregnant for complete details, but generally speaking, most U.S. airlines don't have many flight restrictions until the last month of pregnancy. However, many international airlines do have restrictions and documentation requirements beginning at 28 weeks. If you are pregnant with more than one baby, the restrictions kick in even earlier.

Decide when to stop traveling

I'm all for traveling while pregnant but, realistically, most women will want to stop traveling at some point in the third trimester. I would imagine by about 36 or 37 weeks, most women will probably decide to stay closer to home. I went on a road trip about three hours from home at 35 weeks and then called it quits for the rest of the pregnancy. There's still a whole new world of travel waiting once a new baby joins the family .

Bottom line

There is usually no reason to stop traveling when you're expecting. During my last pregnancy, I went on 12 trips, 28 flights, visited four countries and I'm very glad I had the opportunity to stay that active. I'm also glad that I grounded myself from flight after 31 weeks and from road trips at 35 weeks because those were the right decisions for my comfort level.

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

Do’s and don’ts during the first trimester of pregnancy

A high-risk pregnancy physician offers tips for a healthy start for you and baby.

You’re pregnant! Take some time to jump for joy and feel grateful for this blessing before diving into the world of parental responsibilities.

Your work as a new parent starts now. While you can’t protect against every complication, you can follow these helpful tips to have a healthy, happy first trimester.

Free downloads: Pregnancy guidebooks by trimester

Do think of food as fuel.

Contrary to the old saying, you’re not actually eating for two. You will need more calories and nutrition later in your pregnancy, but there’s no need to double your intake now.

Instead of quantity, focus on the quality of your food . Fuel your body with healthy food. If possible, choose organic food and eat from local food sources if you can. This limits your exposure to pesticides.

Do focus on folate.

You should be taking 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid a day in the first trimester of pregnancy. If you were not already taking folic acid supplements in advance of getting pregnant, start immediately.

This helps prevent two common and serious birth defects : spina bifida and anencephaly. It’s even recommended by some organizations that all women ages 15 to 45 take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily – not just those who are pregnant.

Once your pregnancy is confirmed, your physician will probably recommend you take a prenatal vitamin. These vitamins are designed to meet the recommendations for folic acid intake.

Speaking of prenatal vitamins …

Do take your prenatal vitamins.

These vitamins supply the folate you need, and they also help cover your needs for calcium, iron and zinc. They also provide the appropriate amounts of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). These two types of omega-3 fats help your baby’s brain develop.

Not a fan of the big pills? Talk to your OB provider about an alternative vitamin regimen.

Read more: The ABCs of vitamins in pregnancy

Do eat the rainbow.

While you’re meal planning or feeling snacky, try to eat colorful foods. Reach for dark green spinach, orange carrots, red apples, yellow bananas, blueberries, etc.

Brightly colored foods offer the most nutrients and antioxidants. And having a varied diet will expose your baby to a range of tastes and flavors. Your baby eats what you eat through the amniotic fluid, so if you eat a wide variety of foods, your baby will also.

Your body is going through tremendous changes and is developing an entirely new life-providing system for your baby. As it grows the placenta, you will likely find yourself beyond exhausted some days. Plus, you’re going through monumental hormonal and emotional changes .

Take naps when you can. If you work, try scheduling a little bit of rest time into your lunch hour.

You may need to sleep more than you’re used to at night. Set bedtimes and stick to them to gift your body a solid eight to nine hours of sleep each night.

Do exercise.

Regular exercise helps you combat the fatigue and mood and hormonal changes that happen in the first trimester. It also helps prevent weight gain and battle insomnia.

If you don’t have regular exercise already built into your routine, no sweat! There are several ways you can adopt a more active lifestyle, even during pregnancy. But before you begin any new exercise routine, contact your OB provider. Your provider can suggest options specific to your needs, considering your current state of health and what is best for your baby.

Do get a flu shot.

Pregnant people can safely get a flu shot – and they’re highly encouraged to do so. According to the CDC, the flu is more likely to cause severe illness in pregnant people than in those who are not pregnant.

Because of changes to your immune system, heart and lungs, you’re more prone to serious illness from the flu. Also, some evidence shows that getting the flu while pregnant can raise your risk of complications, including premature labor. The flu vaccine reduces that risk.

Even better, the flu vaccine can also protect your baby from contracting the flu after birth. When you get vaccinated during pregnancy, you’re passing on antibodies to your child. The vaccine will help protect your baby against the flu for the first few months after birth.

Do get a COVID-19 vaccine.

Like the flu, COVID-19 is dangerous to pregnant people and their babies. Pregnant people who get COVID-19 are more likely to need hospitalization and intensive care. They’re also more at risk for preterm delivery, stillbirth and pre-eclampsia.

Research has shown that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe for those who are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant or want to get pregnant in the future.

Talk to a provider you trust if you’re nervous about getting vaccinated while pregnant. Your provider can answer your questions and address any concerns you may have.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines and pregnancy.

Do visit the dentist.

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says that teeth cleaning and dental X-rays are safe for pregnant people. In fact, OB/GYNs are now advised to do oral health assessments during an initial prenatal visit and to encourage dental visits during pregnancy.

The ACOG reports that 40% of pregnant Americans have some degree of periodontal disease and that the physical changes from pregnancy can affect the gums and teeth. A dental visit can identify any potential dental needs early.

Do stay hydrated.

Hydration helps prevent preterm labor. It also helps prevent headaches, kidney stones and dizziness. If you’re already battling constipation and hemorrhoids, staying hydrated can help fight these conditions.

If your urine is light yellow to clear, you’re getting enough hydration. If it’s dark yellow, you need to increase your water intake.

Do make sure your medications are safe.

The bottle of aspirin you’ve been using to relieve headaches may not be safe for you to take while pregnant. Before you take anything, check this list of medications that are generally safe to use while pregnant .

If you struggle with allergies , try to negate the need for medication by avoiding your allergy triggers.

Always talk to your provider before starting any medications, herbs or supplements.

Do ask for help.

Are you already more tired than usual during your first trimester of pregnancy? Ask your partner to help out more, maybe picking up a few extra tasks around the house to ease your burden.

You have a support system – take advantage of it. Ask a friend or family member for help. Do what you need to do to ensure you are getting enough rest, for your health and for your growing baby. Having extra help or having fewer tasks to accomplish will give you more time to rest.

Don’t smoke.

If you’re a smoker , now is the best time to quit. Quitting will give your health a boost and protect the health of your baby. Talk with your provider today about ways to quit.

According to the CDC, smoking while pregnant comes with risks. People who smoke during pregnancy are more at risk of miscarriage. Babies born to those who smoked during pregnancy are at increased risk for birth defects, premature birth, low birth weight and infant death.

These babies also are at greater risk for learning disabilities. Smoking during and after pregnancy is also a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) . And babies born to people who smoked during pregnancy are more likely to become smokers earlier themselves due to a physiologic nicotine addiction.

What about electronic cigarettes? The CDC says that while the aerosol of e-cigarettes typically has fewer harmful substances than cigarette smoke, e-cigarettes that contain nicotine aren’t safe during pregnancy. The nicotine alone is a health danger for pregnant people and developing babies. It can also damage a developing baby’s brain and lungs.

Don’t drink alcohol.

There is no amount of alcohol that is safe during pregnancy. And there is no time during pregnancy when alcohol does not carry risks.

Drinking alcohol while pregnant can cause problems for a developing baby at any stage. This includes the days and weeks before a person knows they’re pregnant. Drinking alcohol anytime in the first trimester can cause central nervous system problems and abnormal facial features and growth. Drinking alcohol later in a pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs). These disorders are a range of behavioral and intellectual disabilities.

Children with FASDs may have:

Abnormal facial features
Poor coordination and memory
Difficulty with attention
Learning disabilities and difficulties in school
Speech and language delays
Poor reasoning and judgment skills
Sleep and sucking problems as infants
Vision and hearing problems
Problems with the heart, kidney or bones

If someone drinks during pregnancy, it is never too late to stop. The sooner they stop, the better the health benefits are for themselves and their baby.

If you need help, talk to your provider right away. There are resources available.

Don’t eat raw meat.

Pregnant people who eat raw or undercooked meat and eggs are at risk of contracting listeriosis and toxoplasmosis. These can lead to serious and life-threatening illnesses and can cause severe birth defects and miscarriage.

Cook your meat and eggs thoroughly before eating.

Don’t visit the sauna.

Avoid the sauna and hot tub. There is a risk of overheating, dehydration and fainting every time you use a sauna, whirlpool, hot tub or steam room. If you’re looking to relax, soak in a hot bath instead.

Don’t drink too much caffeine .

This is an especially tricky one in this first trimester of pregnancy because you are so very tired. But caffeine can cross the placenta and affect your growing baby’s heart rate.

Research suggests that some caffeine is OK in the first trimester – up to about 200 milligrams a day or about two cups of coffee. But some studies suggest that drinking too much caffeine might be associated with a greater risk of miscarriage.

Don’t clean the litter box.

There’s no reason to fear or avoid your pet cat during pregnancy, but leave the litter box to your partner or a friend. There are millions of parasites in feline waste, and one – toxoplasma gondii – is especially dangerous to pregnant people.

Exposure to this parasite can increase your risk of miscarriage or stillbirth. Babies born with this parasite could develop serious health problems, including seizures and mental disabilities. It also can lead to vision problems.

Don’t overeat.

Studies show that half of people gain too much weight during pregnancy . When that happens, the baby is at greater risk of obesity later in life. You will need additional calories in the second and third trimesters, but doctors disagree about whether you need any extra calories in this first trimester.

Eat until you’re satisfied and then stop.

Take care of yourself

This list of do’s and don’ts in the first trimester of pregnancy may seem a bit intimidating. But don’t let it scare you.

Most of these guidelines can be easily summed up: Take care of yourself. Be sure to eat healthy foods, drink lots of water and get enough sleep.

Before you know it, your little one will finally be here. When you hold and snuggle with your newborn, remember to thank yourself for following this list of do’s and don’ts months ago in your first trimester. A healthy, happy baby makes it all worthwhile.

10 things to expect in your second trimester
Exercise during pregnancy: Is it safe?
You can have a happy and healthy plus-size pregnancy

Posted In Health Information , Pregnancy , Women's

Our content is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as medical advice. The content is not designed to replace a physician's medical assessment and medical judgment. As always, please consult first with your physician about health matters. Click here for Terms and Conditions.

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Traveling while Pregnant | First Trimester Tips

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Home » Traveling while Pregnant | First Trimester Tips

There seems to be a common myth that once you fall pregnant, life-as-you-know-it seizes to exist.

Things change, sacrifices need to be made and you have to ‘play’ it safe. I’m here to let you know that traveling while pregnant does not HAVE to be one of those sacrifices!

Yes, you might have to travel in a safer and more responsible manner, but traveling pregnant is definitely possible!

Already a mother of two, I guess my firstborn had been a traveler right from the first few weeks of growth in my belly! We actually happened to be on a trip overseas to South Africa (Cape Town is actually one of the best places to travel while pregnant ) when I found out that I was pregnant.

So there was no thinking or consulting with a doctor before I flew. There was no weighing up the risks versus the benefits, it was just how it was.

I had to make the 20+ hour flight back home to Australia in my first trimester, and whilst it was not fun feeling nauseous most of the time, both I and bub survived the journey with no issue at all.

With baby number 3 on the way, we already had a trip booked to Tasmania before we conceived. As our trip was just a domestic 2.5-hour flight away, it didn’t even cross my mind that I ‘shouldn’t’ do it. If you are feeling a bit skeptical about whether you can fly in the first trimester, domestic is a great way to go about it!

I have a secret though …. shhhhhhh!! The trip, even though it was Tasmania and close to home, was probably one of my least enjoyable ever. Why? Because the trip did not ‘allow’ for a pregnant, tired, and sick lady.

It wasn’t due to the destination though, but more because of the itinerary (that I was responsible for designing). So I have some valuable tips to share, so you can make the right choice of travel destination for you and your body and your baby.

Common Firs t Tri mester Symptoms & How They Affect Your Pregnancy Travels

The fact of the matter is, each person experiences their first trimester of pregnancy very differently from the next. You can’t really predict how you will feel, and as a result, if it is at all possible, it will probably be best to wait until you are actually pregnant before you decide to go traveling in your first trimester.

See how you experience the first trimester symptoms …. if you are going to vomit throughout most of the day, maybe staying home with regular trips to the toilet, might be the only ‘trip’ you get. So below, for those new to the pregnancy game are your typical pregnancy symptoms and tips I can give you in regards to traveling with them.

Nausea, with or without vomiting, is a common complaint for first trimester pregnant ladies. My nausea levels were constant 24/7 but I was pretty fortunate that I was never a ‘vomiter’ with any of my pregnancies. Whilst I was not vomiting, being constantly nauseous for approximately 13 weeks on end can leave you feeling pretty drained and miserable.

My Travelling when Pregnant Tips for dealing with nausea:

Clothes: I found that wearing loose-fitting clothes was a more comfortable way to go. Nothing like tight clothes around a belly that isn’t feeling totally right!

On a plane: Make sure you sit in an aisle seat, just for in case you need to bolt for the bathroom.

In a car: Make sure you are comfortable, take a little pillow if you want, and make sure you have snacks and plenty of water on hand. Smaller meals and regular snacks will generally ‘sit’ better with your nausea than your normal big meals.

Natural nausea-ease: Ginger will be your friend to help tackle nausea in a natural way. I’m not a fan of ginger at all, but had a few packets of the crystalized ginger on hand to munch away on!

I think fatigue was my arch-enemy on our trip to Tasmania. Because our holiday was designed as a road trip, I thought I would be able to relax in the car and all would be okay. Boy was I wrong! Driving for 4 hours every day truly drained me beyond coping levels.

My Travel during Pregnant Tips for dealing with Fatigue are:

Go at a Slow Pace: Make sure you design a holiday where you can rest and relax! Having a bed close by to disappear to for a midday nap might come in very handy. I sure wished I had one close by on our road trip!

Ask for a Quiet Room: Make sure to ask your hotel for a quiet room. Sometimes this means being in the ‘back’ of the hotel, usually, it means going for a room on a higher level if you are staying in a multi-story resort. Getting quality sleep is a pretty hard task to master whilst pregnant in your first and last trimester. You will most likely wake up frequently to pee. You will probably roll around a lot. So ensuring you are in the right spot for the best sleep you can muster will be important!

Take some really comfy flats to travel with: Leave the uncomfy shoes behind, you want to take shoes that will allow you to be comfortable whilst you explore. You can read our guide to the comfiest women’s flats here.

Heightened Sense of Smell

Another change in your body that I know has affected plenty of pregnant traveling ladies is the fact that your senses will go on fire! Touch on your body, that is undergoing constant change, might feel different! Taste buds change and you might find yourself struggling to stomach foods that you used to love before! The one though that I have heard affect travel experiences the most is your sense of smell!

My Travel while Pregnant Tips for dealing with sensitive smell:

Think about your destination, and if it is one that you know will have a smell very different to where you live, think twice about whether it is the right destination for first trimester travel. Some cities simply don’t smell that great, and if your smell is on superpower strength, plus you are trying to deal with nausea, the combination might have a very negative effect on your experience of your destination.

10 Things to Take into Consideration when Traveling while Pregnant

1. It is important to check in with your doctor or obstetrician before booking your holiday. Listen to their concerns, because they will most likely have some. Do remember though that it is their job to caution you against travelling when pregnant in order to forego any possible legal actions against them if something goes wrong. Remember you are an adult, and while it is important to take their recommendations seriously, you are free to choose what is best for you and your baby.

2. If your destination requires you to have vaccinations, you might not be able to go as live-vaccines are not allowed during pregnancy. If possible before trying to conceive, get your vaccines up to date!

3. Going to destinations where Malaria is a major risk might not be advisable. As far as I’ve been told by my doctor, none of the anti-malaria tablets are ‘A’ grade safe for pregnant ladies. Of course you can take other precautions such as DEET and staying indoors at dusk and dawn, but if you love to have the precaution factor of a prophylaxis, this is something to be aware of.

4. If you are travelling to a country other than your own, do ensure you take out travel insurance that covers pregnancies.

5. Again, if you are flying during your first trimester, I recommend you make a list of some great hospitals that you will feel comfortable with if anything does happen on your travels. Best to be prepared I say!

6. It is recommended that pregnant women avoid altitudes above 3,658 metres; so leave those destinations located at high altitude for another day.

7. Travellers’ diarrhoea can cause miscarriages in the early stages of your pregnancy when the embryo is still developing. Now is not the time to try all the local specialities. Play it safe and stay away from street food and food that has a reputation of causing upset traveller’s bellies. Or best yet, pick a destination that you know your stomach can deal with.

8. Stay away from activities that are too adventurous, you know the ones. If ever a thought crosses your mind whether what you are about to do is safe for the baby, best to skip the activity and go relax next to the pool or go for a hike instead.

9. Take a medical kit, your doctor can help subscribe pregnancy-safe medication that you can take along as precaution.

10. If hiking is on the agenda, take a good supportive bra! You will most likely find that even in the first trimester you will need to upgrade your bra size. Your breasts will most likely be aching and be super sensitive, so having good support will go a long way through keeping you comfortable with some travel related activities.

They say that travelling in second trimester is the best time to travel. I have two trips planned for my second trimester of pregnancy, one local and one international. So I will check back in with you all to let you know how I go!

Life ‘as you know it’ does not have to come to an end just because you are ‘cooking’ new life inside of you! But if you are worried, best to plan some sort of little escapes close to home or take the domestic option. Go slow!! And choose holiday destinations that are relaxing. Best of luck to you all! If you do happen to go travelling while pregnant, please let us know where you went and what tips you might have for other pregnant ladies? Thanks!!

Jolene Ejmont

2 thoughts on “traveling while pregnant | first trimester tips”.

Great article Jolene, full of interesting and highly relevant information. Though I never had the chance to travel while I was pregnant, I did move house during each of my first three pregnancies (one particular long distance move from Southern NSW to North Qld) and a number of your tips are highly relevant to that situation as well.

Thanks Grace!! Yes moving while pregnant (I did that when pregnant with Katie) is a mission and a half too!

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Pregnancy week by week

1st trimester pregnancy: What to expect

The first trimester of pregnancy can be overwhelming. Understand the changes you might experience and how to take care of yourself during this exciting time.

During the first few months of pregnancy, amazing changes happen quickly. This part of pregnancy is called the first trimester. Knowing what physical and emotional changes to expect can help you face the months ahead with confidence.

Your first symptom of pregnancy might have been a missed period. But you can expect other physical changes in the coming weeks, including:

Tender, swollen breasts. Soon after you become pregnant, hormonal changes might make your breasts sensitive or sore. You'll likely have less discomfort after a few weeks as your body adjusts to hormone changes.
Avoid having an empty stomach. Eat slowly and in small amounts every 1 to 2 hours.
Choose bland foods that are low in fat. Some examples are bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. Include lean proteins such as low- or no-fat dairy, nuts, nut butters and seeds.
Foods that contain ginger might help settle your stomach.
Stay away from foods or smells that make your upset stomach worse.
Sip plenty of cold, clear fluids.

Call your healthcare professional if your upset stomach or vomiting becomes worse.

More urination. You might find yourself urinating more often than usual. The amount of blood in the body increases during pregnancy. This causes the kidneys to process extra fluid that ends up in the bladder.
Fatigue. It's common to feel very tired during early pregnancy as levels of the hormone progesterone rise. Rest as much as you can. Take a 15-minute nap during the day if you can. A healthy diet and exercise might boost your energy.
Food cravings and dislikes. When you're pregnant, your sense of taste might change. Some smells may seem stronger too. To help, try using a fan when you cook. Ask a family member or partner to take out the trash if possible. Like most other symptoms of pregnancy, food preferences are due to hormone changes.
Eat small, frequent meals.
Sip drinks in between meals.
Don't eat fried foods, citrus fruits, chocolate or spicy foods.
Don't lie down right after a meal.
Try not to eat or drink within a few hours of going to bed.

Talk with your healthcare professional if these steps don't give you enough relief. Safe medicines are available for heartburn.

Constipation. High levels of the hormone progesterone can slow the movement of food through the digestive system. This can cause fewer or painful bowel movements. So can the growing uterus, which may put pressure on the bowels.

To prevent or relieve constipation, eat plenty of foods with fiber. These include fresh or dried fruit, raw vegetables, and whole-grain cereals and bread. Drink lots of fluids too, especially water and prune juice or other fruit juices. Cut back on drinks with caffeine. Regular physical activity also helps. Talk with your healthcare professional about stool softeners if needed.

Your emotions

Pregnancy might make you feel delighted, anxious, excited and exhausted — sometimes all at once. Even if you're thrilled about being pregnant, a new baby can add stress to your life.

It's natural to worry about your baby's health, your adjustment to parenthood and the financial demands of raising a child. If you're employed, you might worry about how to balance the demands of family and career. You also may have mood swings. What you're feeling is common. Take care of yourself and look to loved ones for understanding and support. If your mood changes become serious or intense, see your healthcare professional. Also get a checkup if you feel moody, sad or overwhelmed for longer than two weeks.

Prenatal care

You might choose to get care from various healthcare professionals during your pregnancy. These professionals may include a family doctor, obstetrician, nurse-midwife or other pregnancy specialist. Whoever you choose to see, your healthcare professional can treat, educate and reassure you throughout your pregnancy.

Your first pregnancy checkup focuses on:

Checking your overall health.
Finding any risk factors that could affect the health of you or your baby.
Figuring out how far along the pregnancy is, also called your baby's gestational age.

Your healthcare professional asks detailed questions about your health history. Be honest. If you're not comfortable talking about your health history in front of your partner, schedule a private appointment. Also expect to learn about first trimester screening for chromosomal abnormalities.

You'll likely have checkups every four weeks for about the first 28 weeks of pregnancy. You may need checkups more or less often. It depends on your health and medical history. During these appointments, talk about any concerns you might have about pregnancy, childbirth or life with a newborn. Remember, no question is silly or trivial — and the answers can help you take care of yourself and your baby.

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Bastian LA, et al. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of early pregnancy. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Sept. 5, 2023.
Smith JA, et al. Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy: Treatment and outcome. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Sept. 5, 2023.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Your Pregnancy and Childbirth: Month to Month. Kindle edition. 7th ed. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; 2021. Accessed Sept. 5, 2023.
FAQs: Morning sickness: Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/Morning-Sickness-Nausea-and-Vomiting-of-Pregnancy. Accessed Sept. 5, 2023.
Lockwood CJ, et al. Prenatal care: Initial assessment. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Sept. 5, 2023.
Pregnancy: Body changes and discomforts. Office on Women's Health. https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/body-changes-and-discomforts. Accessed Sept. 6, 2023.
Depression during and after pregnancy. Office on Women's Health. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/depression-during-and-after-pregnancy. Accessed Sept. 6, 2023.
Prenatal care and tests. Office on Women's Health. https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/prenatal-care-and-tests. Accessed Sept. 6, 2023.
What happens during prenatal visits? Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/preconceptioncare/conditioninfo/prenatal-visits. Accessed Sept. 6, 2023.
Marnach ML (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Sept. 17, 2023.

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v.8(2); 2018 Apr

Transatlantic Air Travel in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy: Does It Affect the Fetus?

B. petrikovsky.

1 Long Island OB/GYN, New Hyde Park, New York

2 Sunny Isles Medical Center, Sunny Isles, Florida

L. Sichinava

3 Moscow University School of Medicine, Moscow, Russia

Most commercial airlines allow pregnant women to fly up to 36 weeks of gestation. Available information suggests that noise, vibration, and cosmic radiation present a small risk for the pregnant air traveler. The goal of the study was to assess the possible effect of transatlantic flights on the condition of the third-trimester fetus. In total, 112 patients were recruited into the study between January 2005 and June 2016. All underwent a transatlantic flight in the third trimester of pregnancy. All underwent nonstress test before and within 12 hours after the transatlantic flight, and 24 hours later. Patients were asked to report changes in fetal movements (FMs), if any, during takeoff, flight itself, and landing. The time of flight varied from 8 to 15 hours; average flight time was 9 ± 3.8 hours. Ninety-eight patients were the passengers of first or business class, and the rest were of economy class. Increased FM during takeoff was reported by 17 patients (15%), no change in FM by 62 (35%), decreased FM by 4 (3.6%). During flight itself, increased FM was reported by 6 pregnant passengers (5.4%), no change in FM by 70 (63%), decreased FM by 8 (7%).

Most commercial airlines allow pregnant women to fly up to 36 weeks of gestation. 1 Some restrict pregnant women from international flights earlier in gestation and some require documentation of gestational age. For specific airline requirements, women should check with the individual carrier. 1 Recent cohort studies suggest no increase in adverse pregnancy outcomes for occasional air travelers for low-risk patients. 2 3 Available information suggest that noise, vibration, and cosmic radiation present a small risk for the pregnant air traveler. 4 Both the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements and the International Commission on Radiological Protection recommend a maximum annual radiation exposure limit of 1 millisievert (mSv) (100 rem) for members of the general public and 1 mSv over the course of a 40-week pregnancy. 5 Even the longest available intercontinental flights will expose passengers to no more than 15% of this limit 5 ; therefore, it is unlikely that the occasional traveler will exceed current exposure limits during pregnancy. However, aircrew or frequent flyers may exceed these limits. There is a paucity of information regarding risks of air travel in pregnancy, most of it stemming from fairly old series. 3 While one study deduced that “such low level of hypoxia as that which in an aircraft has little effect on the fetus,” another author argued that the “changing mechanics of pregnancy lend credence to the argument that pregnant stewardesses should not fly.” 6 7

The goal of the study was to assess the possible effect of transatlantic flights on the condition of the third-trimester fetus.

Materials and Methods

One hundred and twelve patients were recruited into the study between January 2005 and June 2016. All underwent a transatlantic flight in the third trimester of pregnancy. All patients were between 34 and 37 weeks of gestation. All underwent nonstress test (NST) before and within 12 hours after the transatlantic flight, and 24 hours later. Patients were asked to report changes in fetal movements (FMs), if any, during takeoff, flight itself, and landing.

Statistical evaluation was made using SPSS for Windows V 15.0 (SPSS Inc.). Data were shown as frequency (percentage) or mean ± standard deviation.

The time of flight varied from 8 to 15 hours; average flight time was 9 ± 3.8 hours. Ninety-eight patients were the passengers of first or business class, and the rest were of economy class. Patients' ages varied from 22 to 39 years, average being 26 ± 5.2 years. NST parameters are reflected in Table 1 .

Abbreviation: NST, nonstress test.

Increased FM during takeoff was reported by 17 patients (15%), no change in FM by 62 (35%), decreased FM by 4 (3.6%). During flight itself, increased FM was reported by 6 pregnant passengers (5.4%), no change in FM by 70 (63%), decreased FM by 8 (7%).

Magann et al 8 conducted a literature review on air travel and pregnancy outcome among other issues (e.g., cosmic radiation, risk of acquiring respiratory disease, possibility of obstetrical emergencies) and addressed one of the possible risks to the fetus, aircraft noise.

A review of perinatal effects of noise emphasizes the lack of properly controlled studies to draw meaningful conclusions about the effects or lack of effects of noise on birth defects and perinatal outcomes. 9 The World Health Organization has labeled noise of greater than 85 dB as potentially hazardous. 10 In both military and civilian aircraft, the greatest noise exposure is during takeoff and landing. Indeed, Freeman et al 3 observed increased fetal heart rate during takeoff and landing. The majority of our patients reported increased FMs at these times. It remains unclear whether these changes are caused by aircraft noise, maternal anxiety, or a combination of both. These fetal responses are very similar to the ones experienced by fetuses exposed to cell phone noise. Frequent acoustic stimulation by cell phones and beepers was accompanied by a startle response manifested by head turning toward the source of the sound, increased swallowing, and frequent eye blinking. Startle responses were observed in all fetuses of the study group and only in 12% of the fetuses in the control group. Besides causing startle response, acoustic stimulations were associated with changes in behavioral states, most notable, from quiet and active sleep into an awakened state. 11 12

The partial pressure of oxygen in inspired air in airplane cabin environments maintained by cabin pressure is usually lower than that at sea level. Physiological adaptations to this relative reduction in inspired oxygen include an increase in heart rate, increase in blood pressure, and decrease in transcutaneously measured arterial oxygen saturation. Fetal hemoglobin has a greater affinity for oxygen than adult hemoglobin, and the fetus is able to maintain a higher oxygen saturation in this environment, which protects it during routine flight conditions. Most healthy pregnant women will have no adverse effects, but those with preexisting cardiovascular problems, sickle cell disease, or anemia 13 may experience complications.

Our study demonstrated significant changes in FHR parameters immediately after the transatlantic flight. It manifested in the increased rate of nonreactive NSTs and more frequent appearances of variable decelerations. The strength of the paper is its prospective nature and the fact that all patients were flying the same or similar distances. In most previous studies, data from intercontinental and domestic flights were analyzed together, thus causing confusion. In spite of the fact that on long commercial flights, traveling at 39,000 to 41,000 ft., cabin pressure is maintained at the equivalent of an altitude pressure of 8,000 ft., whereas at 32,000 ft. (for shorter flights), cabin pressure is set at an equivalent of 6,000 ft. 14 The conditions at a cabin pressure of 8,000 ft. will create a more hypoxic environment than those at 6,000 ft. At 6,000 ft., oxygen consumption in pregnant women is 13% (L/minute) lower than that at sea level in comparison with nonpregnant women for whom the decrease is only 3% lower. 2 The limitations of the study are relatively small sample size and the subjective nature of FM assessment based on patients' diaries. Our study demonstrated that although transatlantic flights may cause only temporary changes in fetal behavior and appears safe for the fetus, these conclusions are limited to third-trimester fetuses.

Conflict of Interest None.

Transatlantic Air Travel in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy: Does It Affect the Fetus?

Affiliations.

1 Long Island OB/GYN, New Hyde Park, New York.
2 Sunny Isles Medical Center, Sunny Isles, Florida.
3 Moscow University School of Medicine, Moscow, Russia.
PMID: 29670815
PMCID: PMC5903395
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1641584

Keywords: airplane; fetus; pregnancy; travel.

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Home » Prices and Trans-Siberian Tickets » Trans-Siberian Railway Prices

Ticket prices for the Trans-Siberian Railway also depend on the current ruble exchange rate.

Is the Trans-Siberian Railway expensive?

Before starting on your Trans-Siberian Railway adventure you naturally want to know what the entire trip will cost. Although this sounds like a simple question, it is pretty difficult to answer. The Trans-Siberian Railway price of travel depends on the following factors:

Which travel class do I want to use? The price for a first class ticket is about three times the price of a 3rd class ticket
Am I willing to buy the tickets myself and assume responsibility for the organisation of the trip?
How many stopovers do I want to make? The more breaks, the higher the total price.
What sort of accommodation do I want? Will it be a luxury hotel or will a hostel dormitory be sufficient?
What tours and excursions would I like to go on?
What is the current exchange rate for rubles?

Basically, everything from a luxury to a budget holiday is available. If you buy yourself a 3rd Class nonstop ticket at the counter, a few hundred Euros will cover the price. All you will experience is a week on the Trans-Siberian train and will see nothing of the cities on the way. There is, however, any amount of room for upward expansion. Everyone makes different choices about which aspects they are willing to spend money on. I personally prefer to save money on accommodation and railcar class, visit as many cities and do as many trips as possible. To enable better classification of your travel expenses I have contrasted two typical traveler types. In the third column you can calculate the total cost of your own journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Please keep in mind that these are only rough estimations and not exact prices.

The all-in costs seem fairly high at first. However, they cover everything and it is quite a long journey taking four weeks. Many people forget to consider that when looking at the list. We should also deduct the running costs for food and leisure at home. I think most visitors to this page will classify themselves somewhere between the two categories, that is around the € 2,000 – € 2,500 range. When comparing these prices with other travel packages, you get the impression that it is hardly worthwhile travelling individually on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Please keep in mind that most packages last no more than 14 days and you are herded like cattle through the most beautiful locations.

If you spend less time on the Trans-Siberian Railway you will, of course, pay less. I chose this particular travel length because I prefer not to do things by halves. If you fulfill your dream of travelling on the Trans-Siberian Railway, enjoy it and don’t rush things. But it’s up to you, of course. Try playing around with the form a bit to find the appropriate price for your trip.

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COMMENTS

Is It Safe to Fly During the First Trimester?
The first trimester is actually an especially low-risk time to travel during pregnancy. Contrary to popular belief, noise vibration, cosmic radiation, and cabin pressure create no increased risks ...
Can You Travel in the First Trimester of Pregnancy?
Yes. You can choose to travel in the first trimester of pregnancy if you feel well and your pregnancy is healthy. There are, however, important considerations when planning a trip during your pregnancy. In most cases, you can safely travel in your first trimester of pregnancy. The risk for a miscarriage is higher in the early months of ...
Air travel during pregnancy: Is it safe?
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 ...
Travel During Pregnancy
Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, and nausea and vomiting. While you are pregnant, you should not travel to areas where there is risk of malaria, including Africa, Asia, and Central and South America. If travel to these areas cannot be avoided, your ob-gyn may prescribe an antimalarial drug that is safe to use during pregnancy.
Pregnancy Travel Tips: Is It Safe to Travel While Pregnant?
Leg pain or swelling. Severe vomiting or diarrhea. While traveling during pregnancy is generally considered safe for most moms-to-be, you'll need to take some precautions before making any plans — and get the green light from your practitioner first.
Here Are the Rules for Flying When You're Pregnant
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 ...
Air Travel During Pregnancy
Occasional air travel during pregnancy is generally safe. Recent cohort studies suggest no increase in adverse pregnancy outcomes for occasional air travelers 1 2. Most commercial airlines allow pregnant women to fly up to 36 weeks of gestation. Some restrict pregnant women from international flights earlier in gestation and some require ...
What To Know About Travel During Pregnancy
Unless you're carrying multiple or have another condition, first- and second-trimester travel is usually OK. As your due date approaches, stay closer to home.
How to Survive Traveling in Your First Trimester
Though first-trimester travel, or any travel during pregnancy for that matter, isn't necessarily the most comfortable, at least you don't have to worry about baby gear, chasing a toddler around, or dealing with tantrums on a flight. Do your best to relax and enjoy!
Pregnant Travelers
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.
Travel During Pregnancy
Travel During Pregnancy. As long as there are no identified complications or concerns with your pregnancy, it is generally safe to travel during your pregnancy. The ideal time to travel during pregnancy is the second trimester. In most cases, you are past the morning sickness of the first trimester and several weeks from the third stage of ...
Pregnancy Travel: Traveling Safely by Air, Car, and Cruise Ship
Pregnancy travel by car has some of the same risks and rules as traveling by plane, says Nye. "The big problem is blood clots," she says. "If you are in a car and driving long distances, get out ...
Traveling While Pregnant
Travel during the first and second trimesters is usually considered to be safe, although it may be more tiring than usual. Traveling during the first trimester of pregnancy may pose a few challenges, especially if you're experiencing morning sickness, nausea, or fatigue. And the risk of bleeding or miscarriage is the greatest during these months.
What it's like to travel during each trimester of pregnancy
In my first trimester of my second pregnancy, ... However, once the third trimester rolls around, travel can get a more complicated and does eventually have to stop. The beginning and end of the third trimester are quite different. Changes come even more quickly in the third trimester. You enter the third trimester about 28 weeks pregnant and ...
Travelling 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.
Fetal development: The 1st trimester
Fetal development six weeks after conception. Eight weeks into your pregnancy, or six weeks after conception, your baby's lower limb buds take on the shape of paddles. Fingers have begun to form. Small swellings outlining the future shell-shaped parts of your baby's ears develop and the eyes become obvious.
Do's and don'ts during the first trimester of pregnancy
Do focus on folate. You should be taking 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid a day in the first trimester of pregnancy. If you were not already taking folic acid supplements in advance of getting pregnant, start immediately. This helps prevent two common and serious birth defects: spina bifida and anencephaly.
Traveling while Pregnant
4. If you are travelling to a country other than your own, do ensure you take out travel insurance that covers pregnancies. 5. Again, if you are flying during your first trimester, I recommend you make a list of some great hospitals that you will feel comfortable with if anything does happen on your travels.
1st trimester pregnancy: What to expect
Your first symptom of pregnancy might have been a missed period. But you can expect other physical changes in the coming weeks, including: Tender, swollen breasts. Soon after you become pregnant, hormonal changes might make your breasts sensitive or sore. You'll likely have less discomfort after a few weeks as your body adjusts to hormone changes.
Your Guide to the First Trimester: Symptoms, Prenatal Visits ...
In the first trimester, most symptoms are a result of changing hormones. You may feel these symptoms well before you have a visible baby bump. You may also feel little to no symptoms in the first trimester of your pregnancy. First-trimester symptoms include: Mood swings — Due to hormonal changes. If you experience this, try talking to a ...
What Are the Do's and Don'ts During the First Trimester of Pregnancy?
The first trimester of your pregnancy is the first twelve weeks that you're pregnant. The do's during the first trimester of pregnancy include getting prenatal care and maintaining your health, rest and mental health; the don't include drinking alcohol, smoking, using drugs, eating dangerous foods and engaging in risky behaviors. The first ...
Transatlantic Air Travel in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy: Does It
Available information suggests that noise, vibration, and cosmic radiation present a small risk for the pregnant air traveler. The goal of the study was to assess the possible effect of transatlantic flights on the condition of the third-trimester fetus. In total, 112 patients were recruited into the study between January 2005 and June 2016.
Transatlantic Air Travel in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy ...
Available information suggests that noise, vibration, and cosmic radiation present a small risk for the pregnant air traveler. The goal of the study was to assess the possible effect of transatlantic flights on the condition of the third-trimester fetus. In total, 112 patients were recruited into the study between January 2005 and June 2016.
Trans-Siberian Railway Prices Calculation
The price for a first class ticket is about three times the price of a 3rd class ticket; ... When comparing these prices with other travel packages, you get the impression that it is hardly worthwhile travelling individually on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Please keep in mind that most packages last no more than 14 days and you are herded like ...

Here Are the Rules for Flying When You're Pregnant

Pregnancy and Flying: Your Trimester by Trimester Guide

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First trimester

Second trimester

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What to expect when traveling in each trimester of pregnancy

A few truths about pregnancy

Research and make choices about inflight radiation and other risks

Check your health insurance policy

Consider travel insurance

Traveling in the first trimester

Pick an aisle seat and move about the cabin

Room service come to the rescue

Take it easy when you need to

Traveling in the second trimester

The beginning and end of the second trimester are quite different

Consider where you are comfortable traveling

Plan big, but not too big

Traveling in the third trimester

The beginning and end of the third trimester are quite different

Select destinations and activities carefully

You are going to get uncomfortable

Bring your own pillows

See if you are allowed to fly

Decide when to stop traveling

Bottom line

Travelling in pregnancy

When to travel in pregnancy

Flying in pregnancy

Travel vaccinations when you're pregnant

Malaria tablets

Check before you travel

Car travel in pregnancy

Sailing in pregnancy

Food and drink abroad in pregnancy

Do’s and don’ts during the first trimester of pregnancy

Do think of food as fuel.

Do focus on folate.

Do take your prenatal vitamins.

Do eat the rainbow.

Do exercise.

Do get a flu shot.

Do get a COVID-19 vaccine.

Do visit the dentist.

Do stay hydrated.

Do make sure your medications are safe.

Do ask for help.

Don’t smoke.

Don’t drink alcohol.

Don’t eat raw meat.

Don’t visit the sauna.

Don’t drink too much caffeine .

Don’t clean the litter box.

Don’t overeat.

Take care of yourself

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