If you are pregnant and thinking of flying off on holiday, there are a few things you’ll want to think about before you go, but as long as you’re travelling during the first or second trimester of the pregnancy you’re probably perfectly safe to fly.
There are some circumstances under which it may be advisable not to fly – these include medical conditions like spotting, diabetes, high blood pressure, and placental abnormalities. Also if you’ve been pregnant before and had an early birth then it’s going to be best to talk to your midwife or doctor before deciding.

For most women travelling during the second trimester is the easiest time during the pregnancy to do so. This is because you’ve got the morning sickness behind you, but your energy levels are still nice and high.

It’s unlikely you’ll be asked if you’re pregnant when you book your flight, but if you’re showing then when you reach the departure gate you may well be asked. As different airlines vary in terms of how late into the pregnancy they’re happy for you to travel it’s best to check this out in advance so you get no nasty shocks. Most are happy to carry women till they’re 28th week, some are fine until you’re 36 weeks, but it’s best to speak to your midwife and then the airline to avoid delays or problems.

Of course once you’re on that plane there’s still the discomfort of sitting still for a long time to deal with, and there are slightly higher risks for things such as thrombosis (blood clots). You can ease the risks though by buying a pair of medical support stockings to wear while travelling and putting them on first thing before you get out of bed and wearing them till you lay down again at night. These will help with the circulation and potential swelling you might otherwise experience. Take a couple of minutes to walk the aisle every hour if you can too, and failing that keep flexing your legs ankles and feet regularly through the flight. Avoid alcohol or caffeine too.

For the sake of playing it safe take all your medical notes with you including any insurance documents and a list of emergency contacts with phone numbers. Opt for high factor sun cream and avoid staying out in the sun too long as your sun is more sensitive when you’re pregnant. Take off your rings before you fly to avoid constricting the circulation if your fingers swell, and wear loose clothing too. Even if your morning sickness is over, you may find you experience a bit of travel sickness so it can be worth investing in some travel sickness bands to wear and carrying some ginger biscuits or crystallised ginger to nibble on to help with this.