What should I know about airplane travel while pregnant?

Some domestic airlines restrict travel during the last month of pregnancy or require a medical certificate; others discourage travel after 36 weeks of pregnancy. If you are planning an international flight, the cutoff point for traveling with international airlines is often earlier.

When traveling by air, you can take the following steps to help make your trip as comfortable as possible:

  • If you can, book an aisle seat, so that it is easy to get up and stretch your legs during a long flight.
  • Avoid gas-producing foods and carbonated drinks before your flight.
  • Wear your seatbelt at all times. The seatbelt should be belted low on the hipbones, below your belly.
  • If you are prone to nausea, your health care provider may be able to prescribe anti-nausea medication.