Is it safe to fly during the first trimester?

As soon as women learn they are pregnant the list of questions of what is safe and what is not begin to pile up. One of the common questions is whether or not it is safe to fly during the first trimester. Many business women who become pregnant that travel for their jobs are especially concerned about this and want to know that flying will not harm their unborn child. Fortunately, all the studies show that flying during the first trimester and even up to the 36th week of pregnancy is perfectly healthy. Even going through metal detectors will not affect your unborn child. So, relax, and fly for business or pleasure throughout your pregnancy.

The only time flying is not recommended is the last few weeks of your pregnancy. There is nothing wrong with flying at this time, but doing so is risky because you could go into labor and being in labor onboard an aircraft much less delivering is not what most women would choose.

Of course, there are some concerns while flying during the first trimester and these are mainly associated with your pregnancy symptoms. If you have lower back pain, morning sickness, headaches, or extreme exhaustion then traveling by plane may not be worthwhile. However, many pregnant women have flown during their first trimester and made it through and you can too if you need to. Just make sure you consider how you feel, where you are traveling, and how much effort will be required to do so.

Keep in mind that while you are pregnant you should not be doing any heavy lifting. So, that means carrying only a light suitcase or backpack. Other heavier luggage should be carried by someone else or pushed on a cart. Over exerting yourself could cause problems with your pregnancy and that is the last thing you want so make sure you take care of yourself and your baby.

Also, while you are flying make sure you get up and move around as often as possible to keep your circulation normal. Pregnant women are at a higher risk for blood clots and sitting for extended periods increases the odds. So, move around, stretch, and you should have no worries while traveling. Wear comfortable clothing, drink plenty of water, dont cross your legs, and you should have no worries about a blood clot while flying.
