Does spending hours on a plane sound risky? We spoke to the experts to dispel the doubt once and for all. Write the guidelines and have a good trip!
The pregnant woman can rest assured to plan a trip a little further away with the family. Air travel in itself poses no particular risk to the mother or baby.explains Igor Padovesi, gynecologist and obstetrician at the University of São Paulo (USP) and doctor at the Albert Einstein hospital.
Before boarding the plane, however, you should check the airline’s requirements. “I guide my patients to carry a medical statement for all trips🇧🇷 Therefore, they will not have any problems when boarding,” explains Igor.
The rules for authorizing boarding vary according to the company promoting the flight. Most companies accept that pregnant women travel up to the 32nd week of pregnancy. However, from the third trimester (28th week), permission from the obstetrician is required, he points out. Cinthia Calsinski, midwifery nurse. It is also possible that the structure requires that the pregnant woman travel accompanied by the doctor.
The ideal time to plan air travel – especially long ones – is between 12 and 29 weeks. “Many pregnant women feel sick in the first trimester due to nausea and vomiting, which can make the journey more difficult. For this, the second quarter is the ideal phase,” Igor points out.
Also, it is worth mentioning that a trip in early pregnancy does not generate any complete risk, such as abortion. “This is a myth,” completes the gynecologist.
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Situations of risk and caution
There is no scientific evidence of harm to pregnant women flying by plane. However, it is important to exercise caution when traveling for an extended period, depending on your gestational age.
“Pregnant women who have lost fluids or are at increased risk of needing preterm birth, Together with your obstetrician, evaluate the risks and benefits of air travel” explains Cynthia.
Another point of attention is linked to the prolonged immobilization of the legs and the risk of thrombosis, which is naturally greater during pregnancy. “On long journeys, the pregnant woman is recommended to wear antithrombosis elastic stockings, move her legs and get up a few times during the flight (which usually happens due to the frequent desire to pee),” emphasizes the obstetrician.
Risky pregnancy situations – such as high blood pressure, vaginal bleeding and placental changes – may contraindicate travel. But everything will depend on the duration of the pregnancy and the duration of the trip.
How to make traveling more comfortable
In addition to the use of elastic stockings, pregnant women can use cushions for lumbar support, comfortable clothes and shoes, and choose seats with more space, in order to make the journey more pleasant. It is also possible to take medications to relieve possible symptoms, such as remedies for nausea and headaches.
The seat belt must not be placed directly on the stomach. Meals during the flight should be light and the pregnant woman should stay well hydrated, stretch and move frequently. Noticed?
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
