Can I fly when I'm over two months pregnant?

Oct 21, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Whether a woman more than two months pregnant can fly should be determined based on her physical condition. If she experiences any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly. If air travel is necessary, pregnant women are advised to choose seats near the aisle for easier access to move around or reach the restroom when needed. Additionally, avoid fastening the seatbelt too tightly to prevent pressure on the abdomen.

Generally speaking, whether a pregnant woman who is over two months pregnant can fly should be determined based on her physical condition. If the pregnant woman is in stable health, flying is usually acceptable; however, if her health is poor, flying is not recommended. The specific analysis is as follows:

If the pregnant woman’s physical condition is stable, her pregnancy symptoms are mild and she does not experience severe morning sickness, dizziness, abdominal pain, or other discomforts, and the fetus is developing stably within the uterus. Airplanes, as a modern mode of transportation, provide a relatively comfortable cabin environment with minimal turbulence and vibration during flight, which typically does not pose adverse effects to the pregnant woman or the fetus. Therefore, under evaluation by a doctor or medical professional, women with stable health conditions may travel by air.

If the pregnant woman has health complications—such as severe pregnancy-related disorders, signs of miscarriage, placental abruption, or other emergencies—or suffers from serious chronic illnesses, air travel is not advised. This is because environmental factors such as air pressure and oxygen levels change at high altitudes, potentially posing risks to both mother and fetus. In addition, long-haul flights may increase fatigue, worsen physical discomfort, or even trigger unexpected complications. Therefore, when a pregnant woman's health is unstable, rest and medical treatment should take priority over air travel.

If a pregnant woman must fly, it is recommended that she choose a seat near the aisle for easier access to movement or restroom use when needed. She should also avoid fastening the seatbelt too tightly to prevent pressure on the abdomen. During the flight, the pregnant woman should maintain a light, easily digestible diet and avoid overeating or consuming irritating foods.