Flying during the first trimester?

Magnolia+Mama · May 2015

I have a trip planned to New Orleans for my cousins' wedding coming up. I will be 8w when we leave. What are the rules on flying during the first trimester?

CMDD · May 2015

no rules that i know of. just drink extra water. i actually opted for a pat down instead of going through the machines when i flew 2 weeks ago.

also, jealous you'll be in new orleans! we moved from there to here and i miss it every single day. have fun!

VesperLove · May 2015

Quick Google search found me this.

https://www.pregnancy.org/article/air-travel-during-your-first-trimester

MrsDarke · May 2015

You can fly at any time but they say that the second trimester is the safest as you're less likely to suffer a miscarriage and also less likely to go into labour.
As long as your insurance company covers you in all eventualities during your trip you'll be fine.
Make sure you drink plenty of water and mobilise around the aeroplane for 15 mins of every hour to reduce your risk of blood clots.
Some airlines also prefer to know if you're pregnant so phone them and enquire just incase.
X

BCIndychick · May 2015

I flew for a family emergency last week. The machine they put you through uses ultrasound technology so it is safe. Just make sure to stretch your legs and do ankle pumps throughout the flight from time to time to help wth circulation. If your doctor has said anything to you about high risks the. Ask him/her first for clearance. It was fine for me, I just kept extra snacks in my purse for nausea reasons. Have fun!

SilverRayn · May 2015

If you're a stewardess, you might have a reason to worry. Otherwise flying is perfectly safe during all three trimesters aside from the potential that you'll go into labor in the third. Your level of comfort may vary, but that's it. My doctor actually offered to write a "prescription" for a seat near the bathrooms when I flew to Hawaii. I didn't take her up on it, but depending on your level of discomfort it might be an option you'd want to pursue.

CMDD · May 2015

I forgot I'm flying again in a few weeks! Two flights in the first trimester and I'm not worried about anything.

grkgdss00 · May 2015

I'm flying to NOLA next week also, and was wondering about this. i'll be 7w3d and return at 8w.

dec15mum · May 2015

I flew when I was 7 weeks pregnant, it's fine for the baby! Though I did experience terrible travel sickness even though I had never been travel sick before so my advise is lots of water and try get an aisle seat!

katy4128 · May 2015

Just wanted to chime in and add I am flying to New Orleans in June! I will be in second tri then! I too am not worried!

blondiii428 · May 2015

You can fly all the way until your late third trimester (because of the risk of going into labor). With DS I flew at 12w and 16w. You may just find yourself going to the bathroom more than anyone else!

jenmardel · May 2015

I actually have flown internationally and have a couple more flights planned for early this pregnancy and everything has gone just fine. Nothing to worry about, just take care of yourself the way you usually do. Like the PPs said, lots of water and take some snacks! Happy travels!

SoCalBeat · May 2015

I was wondering about this I will be 8+6 when I fly to Ohio! I made sure that I got a direct flight so I am not more tired than i want to be. I wanted some advice too and I'm glad I used the search to find this article.
@MrsDarke That's a good idea! I will have to give my airliner a call!
ciurke3 Thank you for asking such a great question!

felicita11 · May 2015

I went to Europe between 5 and 7 weeks, and while I hated having to get up and walk the aisles it was fine. I'd also recommend flight socks. They are a pain to wear but help prevent deep vein thrombosis. Just stay hydrated, pack snacks, and pick an aisle seat! Most importantly, have fun!

Magnolia+Mama · May 2015

Thanks to everyone for responding. I really appreciate it

4puddleducks · May 2015

I flew a quick trip with my 3yr old son before I knew I was pregnant end of March. I flew home during my first pregnancy for my baby shower at 30 weeks. It was a long day and I didn't even have a long flight, but I did have to run to catch my connecting flight. Buy water and tell the flight attendants that you're pregnant. They will make sure you have plenty to drink on the flight.

Magnolia+Mama · May 2015

@4puddleducks ~ we will be traveling with my sister and her BF. Since we haven't told the family yet (and don't plan to until after our first Dr. appt on 5/19) I'll have to keep it a secret

I will pack water and snacks and tell DH to make sure I'm drinking.

SilverRayn · May 2015

Hmm... if all it takes to get water from the flight attendants is telling them you're pregnant, I may be "pregnant" for the rest of my life.

I always end up dehydrated on flights no matter how much water I bring.

CMDD · May 2015

i'd also suggest a scarf with essential oils and some hand sanitizer so you don't catch a cold!

kidcapri100 · May 2015

I'm just about 10w and getting ready for my 7th flight since I found out I was pregnant (I travel for work).
My doctor said flying is completely safe in the 1st trimester as long as you drink plenty of water, get up to walk around every 60-90 min and suggested wearing compression socks.
I do notice that I get a bit more "motion" sick, but I've had severe nausea since about 5 1/2 weeks. Layers really help (I go from cold to sweating in minutes), sea bands and I love the suggestion of a scarf with essential oils!
But as with anything, check with your doctor. There are some rare cases/complications where doctors will prohibit flying.

knbanbury · May 2015

I am 8 weeks based in the UK and flew to and from Spain this weekend. Checked with the doctor beforehand who said it was no problem to fly. Have had to take today off work though as I am absolutely shattered. Flying again in 2 weeks as I really need a holiday. Enjoy your trip - it won't be long before we won't be able to travel so make the most of it. All the best xx

kenldav · May 2015

We are flying to Florida in two weeks. Glad you posted this!

megirl81 · May 2015

I flew two 12-hour flights at 6w, if everything is ok, there are no restrictions, just stay hydrated and try to get up and walk around when you can during the flight. And, as was mentioned here, I also opted for a pat down vs the scan. My doc gave me an u/s picture to show at the airport in case they say something. In any case, she said it's not a big deal, the scan, but if one prefers to be on the safe side, then opt for the pat down.

arichlife · May 2015

Just make sure to stay hydrated and walk around every two hours to prevent blood clots

that's all my doc said

Stevie1930 · May 2015

I just flew to and from Ft. Lauderdale for a cruise last week, about a 3 hour flight each way. I just had my ultrasound the day after I got back, peanut was there, heartbeat and all, 169 bpm.

Just carry snacks, and keep moving your legs if you can.

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