If your pregnancy is uncomplicated and you are not at risk, travel is usually acceptable. Check with your doctor before firming up any travel plans. Whether you travel by car, train, bus or airplane it is wise to walk at least every hour for a couple of minutes. Regular visits to the bathroom may take care of this requirement. If you decide to take a trip, be sensible in your planning. Don't overdo it.


Traveling by Air is safe for most pregnant women. Most airlines allow women to fly up to 36 weeks of pregnancy. For international journeys the cut off is 35 weeks. Check with the airlines as different carriers may permit different cut off dates. Pregnant women who are at significant risk for premature labor or who have placental abnormalities should avoid air travel totally. You may want to take note of several factors about air travel during this condition:


Avoid flights that are high altitude (nonstop overseas or cross country flights) because they fly at higher altitudes and oxygen levels are lower. This increases your heartbeat as well as your baby's; your baby also receives less oxygen



• If you have problems with swelling, wear loose-fitting clothes and shoes. Avoid pantyhose, tight clothes, knee-high socks or stockings and tight waistlines



• You can order special meals such as low sodium or vegetarian fare if you want to avoid some foods that cause you problems



• Drink lots of fluids to keep you hydrated



• Get up and be mobile whenever you can. Try to walk at least 10 minutes every hour. Standing also helps



• Try and arrange for an aisle seat close to the washroom. If you have to visit the washroom frequently, you don't have to crawl over someone to get out



• Be careful of any x-ray devices in the airport.


• More on Air Travel during pregnancy