Tips on how to fly while pregnant

Looking forward to taking a babymoon or spend time with the family before your bundle of joy arrives? If yes, then do not worry as traveling during pregnancy is usually safe, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but there are some things expecting mothers should keep in mind before getting a flight booked.

Pregnancy can bring a higher risk of deep-vein thrombosis, an uncommon condition where blood clots form in the pelvic veins and leg often because of being seated or immobile for long periods. Nonetheless, traveling while pregnant is easy with a little preparation.

So, before you go ahead and book Southwest Airlines reservations flights, keep in mind to follow the below-mentioned tips as this will ensure you and your baby stay healthy:

• Plan your travel carefully

Doctors’ suggest it is best not to travel pregnant before twelve weeks because of morning sickness and the potentially increased risk of miscarriage. Though numerous pregnant women have no problem flying in their first trimester, it is always better to consult with your physician. After twenty-eight weeks, when the risk of going into labor augments, most airlines will necessitate a letter from the doctor stating that you Are fit for air travel while pregnant and verifying your estimated due date.

If you are more than thirty-six weeks pregnant, several airlines would not let you fly because of the increased risk of delivering on board. It is ideal to travel in between fourteen and twenty-eight weeks when risks for pregnancy emergencies are lowest. A recurrent concern among pregnant fliers is the exposure to naturally occurring cosmic radiation during a flight. But, the risks to both the passenger and the fetus are considered insignificant.

• See your doctor

Pregnant passengers should be inspected by the physician and they should carry documentation stating the doctor’s contact information, expected date of delivery, and blood type while traveling. Some airlines necessitate pregnant passengers to have a medical certificate signed by a midwife or physician. Pregnant passengers must bring a copy of their ultrasounds and medical records and pack them in their carry-on luggage in case they require going to a hospital or deliver early. 

If traveling globally, also check with the doctor and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to find out what, if any, vaccinations are required for your journey. For a few regions of the world, immunizations are essential before travel. Proof of immunization is a necessity for entering some countries. Some immunizations need more than one shot and some prescriptions such as anti-malarial medications might have to be started weeks in advance.

• Stay healthy

Ensure to pack prescription medications in your luggage. Accumulate all prescription drugs, common over-the-counter medications, and know-how to troubleshoot health problems while traveling, which includes a recommendation on what to pack before your trip to be prepared for the most common health problems while traveling, from jet lag and sunburn, altitude sickness and traveler’s diarrhea.

While most tourists might not think twice about taking aspirin and routine prescription medications into their bags, traveling with medication should take some pre-planning and idea.

• Go through the rules

Each airline has its regulations for flying while pregnant. If you are getting your flights’ booking done with an agent, let them know that you are pregnant when you book your flight. If booking your Southwest Airlines reservations online, be sure to check the website of the airline.

It is also worth calling ahead to alert the airline about your pregnancy. Not only can you validate that you will be able to fly, but you can also make sure that you get special service to keep you comfortable during your travels.

• Think about insurance

You may have some insurance coverage already and just do not know about it. Check with your credit card company or health insurance provider and see what is covered during travel. Some travel insurance plans comprise overseas medical coverage; some only cover transportation expenses and personal property. Make sure to check with your current medical insurance provider to see what is covered out of state and overseas.

Travelers can also purchase supplementary travel insurance that offers benefits such as emergency medical evacuation. To ensure peace of mind on flights while pregnant, look into air travel insurance in case your tour is canceled or cut short because of your pregnancy. It is also excellent to check your medical insurance to see if you are covered in case you have to deliver while traveling.

• Consume food in moderation

Avoid overeating at mealtimes and taking too many salty foods. Pack fresh fruits which are rich in vitamin to snack on during your flight. Plums, grapes, dried apricots, and oranges are travel-friendly options.

• No heavy lifting

Pack light as heavy lifting must be avoided during pregnancy. Check with the airport agent and ask him/her to assist you put your bag on the conveyor belt. When boarding the plane, ask a flight attendant to assist to put your luggage in the overhead bin.