Pregnant individuals often have concerns about the safety of air travel, particularly regarding the risk of miscarriage. This article provides evidence-based information to clarify these concerns and offer guidance on safe air travel during pregnancy.
Understanding the Risk of Miscarriage While Flying
For most healthy pregnant individuals, flying on a commercial airline does not inherently increase the risk of miscarriage. Medical organizations, including the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), confirm there is no direct link between typical air travel and an elevated risk of pregnancy loss.
Miscarriages are common, with most occurring in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. The majority, around 80%, result from factors unrelated to external activities like flying. Common causes include genetic abnormalities in the embryo or placental issues. Other factors can involve uncontrolled diabetes, severe high blood pressure, thyroid disorders, infections, specific medications, or abnormalities in the womb’s structure.
Other Health Considerations When Flying While Pregnant
While flying does not increase the risk of miscarriage, pregnant individuals might experience other health considerations during air travel. One notable concern is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition where blood clots form, usually in the legs. Pregnancy itself increases the risk of DVT, and prolonged immobility during flights, especially those over four hours, further elevates this risk. These clots can be dangerous if they travel to the lungs.
Changes in cabin pressure can also cause discomfort. As cabin pressure decreases at higher altitudes, it can lead to symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, blocked ears, or dizziness during takeoff and landing. The lower humidity levels in aircraft cabins, around 15%, may also contribute to dryness. Pregnant individuals may experience heightened fatigue or nausea, which can be exacerbated by travel.
Regarding cosmic radiation, occasional flights do not pose a risk to the fetus. The radiation exposure during a 10-hour flight is approximately 0.05 milliGray units (mGy), which is half the dose from a chest x-ray. Fetal developmental risks from radiation are considered unaffected at exposure doses below 50 mGy. However, for flight crew members who fly frequently, annual exposure can be higher, ranging from 0.2 to 5.0 mGy per year, and they should consult with occupational health departments.
Safe Travel Practices for Pregnant Individuals
To ensure a safer and more comfortable journey, pregnant individuals can follow several recommendations. The second trimester, between 14 and 28 weeks, is considered the most favorable time for air travel. During this period, morning sickness subsides, and the risk of premature labor is lower compared to the third trimester. Many healthcare providers advise staying within a certain radius of home during the third trimester, after 28 weeks, due to the increased likelihood of labor or other complications.
Before flying, consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable, especially for those with existing medical conditions or high-risk pregnancies. To ensure a safer journey, consider the following:
Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
Move around the cabin frequently (approximately every 30 minutes) and perform in-seat exercises like ankle flexing to help reduce DVT risk.
Wear graduated elastic compression stockings for flights longer than four hours to improve circulation.
Airline policies for pregnant passengers vary, but many allow travel up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies and up to 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies. After 28 weeks, airlines may require a letter from a doctor or midwife confirming the due date and that the pregnancy is progressing without complications. It is important to carry maternity medical records and verify travel insurance coverage for pregnancy-related medical care abroad.