Are you all going on a summer holiday? If you’re pregnant and are planning a flight out of the UAE this holiday, we’ve got some top tips and advice to keep you as safe and as comfortable as possible.
Whether you’re newly pregnant or planning a babymoon right before welcoming your new bundle of joy, here’s what expectant parents need to know about airline travel.
While generally it’s safe to travel right up until the last few weeks of your pregnancy, there are some precautions to take depending on when you decide to book a trip and how high risk your pregnancy is.
So, if you’ve got a baby onboard, here’s what you need to know before you get onboard. Bon voyage!
Do
Check in with your airline
Not all airlines implement the same rules when it comes to pregnant women flying: Etihad Airways allows women to travel during the first 28 weeks of pregnancy without a medical certificate.
Emirates Airlines won’t allow pregnant women to travel after their 36th week of pregnancy unless with special permission form the Medical Department of airlines.
Air Arabia allows travel up until week 35 as long as you provide a medical certificate instating how far along in your pregnancy you are.
Flydubai allows pregnant women to fly until 28 weeks, but require an official medical certificate beyond that.
Choose the best seat on the plane
If you can afford the luxury of flying in business class or premium economy then do it. If not, try to select an extra legroom seat before your flight. You could even just ask the flight staff if they can make some accommodations for you. If an extra legroom seat is unavailable, the second best option would be to get an aisle seat near the restroom, because you can get out easily without walking in front of people on a regular basis.
Get insurance
Make sure your travel insurance gives you adequate cover. Most insurers will insist that you have at least eight to ten weeks until your due date for your return flight. Others may stipulate that cover only extends up until week 27 or 28 of pregnancy. It’s best to contact them to find out their particular conditions and exactly what you could claim for.
Keep your medical history to hand
Once you’re back on terra firma, it’s important to keep in mind that your skin is more sensitive to the sun’s rays during pregnancy so slather on the sun cream. Also, keep a copy of your medical notes and insurance policy with you and have details of local doctors, hospitals and the embassy in case of any emergencies.
Stay close to home
Your dream holiday might be a far flung exotic destination, but long-haul flights can be uncomfortable when you’re pregnant. There are more than enough fantastic domestic destinations to visit within three hours. By opting for a shorter light it not only lessens the time for any discomfort, but it means you get to your holiday faster – winner.
Talk to your doctor
It’s important to have a chat with your doctor before you book to fly anywhere. Provided there haven’t been any complications during your pregnancy, or with previous pregnancies, you should get sign-off on your trip. It’s worth getting a letter from your doctor (and all your prenatal records) confirming you are fit to fly just in case your airline asks for it. Keep in mind that a number of airlines won’t let you fly after 36 weeks.
Wear compression socks
When you’re pregnant, slower circulation increases the chance of blood clots, so ask your midwife for elastic compression socks for your flight as these can minimise the risk. Granted they aren’t the most fashionable of things, but what’s a style faux-pas for some peace of mind?
Don’t
Lift heavy bags
When you arrive at the airport, staff and airline personnel are available to assist you with lugging those heavy bags around so you don’t have to. Let your airline know in advance if you need assistance with your luggage or with getting to the gate.
Sit still on the plane
No matter the flight, it’s good to get up from your seat for a bit as there is an increased risk of getting blood clots during pregnancy. Every half hour during the flight, stand up and walk, or flex and extend your legs to prevent swelling of the feet and to improve blood circulation.
Get dehydrated
Drink water, lots of water, because you can never drink enough water when you pregnant, and an airplane dehydrates you even more than being on the ground. So buy a large bottle of water to take on the plane with you – that way you don’t have to wait for the cabin crew to get to you with the drinks trolley.
Now you and bump are ready to hit the skies safely.
For more tips visit skyscanner.ae.
