Is it okay for me to travel while I’m pregnant?
Let’s talk all things air travel, domestic travel and international travel during pregnancy.
Whether it be domestic or international, flying while pregnant can be a source of anxiety for pregnant women. Each airline will have their own policy on flying while pregnant. Be aware that often they may recommend that pregnant women not fly after 32 weeks.
It is always recommended that you speak to your obstetrician about your travel intentions so we can check you and your baby are fit to fly and write a letter to the airline stating we are medically happy for you hop on the plane! Some airlines will refuse to allow you to board without this letter!
Due to the increased risk of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT or a blood clot) during pregnancy we would prefer you to take shorter flights and take some precautions during your flight to help reduce the risk of this developing.
- Request an aisle seat so that you can get up and move around and more your legs during the flight.
- Wear compression stockings or flight
socks – these will help to improve your blood flow and also reduce risk of
swelling pain that can be caused during a flight.
If you have had a previous pregnancy complication such as premature delivery, late-term miscarriage, high blood pressure, we may recommend you avoid flying until after bubs arrives!
Domestic Travel
Travel within Australia is considered very safe during pregnancy. We would normally recommend that you don’t go too far away from us and the hospital during your third trimester. If you do need to travel please check with your doctor and it would be best not to be too far away from some medical facilities.
International Travel
Pregnant women may not be able to receive certain immunizations and antibiotics. Pregnant women who travel to regions where malaria is common need to understand that exposure to malaria increases her and her baby’s risk of complications. Not all antimalarial medications have been studied to determine their safety in pregnancy. Expert advice about the wisdom of traveling in regions where malaria is present, the safety of various antimalarial drugs, and the risks of malaria in pregnancy should be considered prior to travel.