Flying in pregnancy: when it’s safe and what to know

For most people flying in pregnancy is safe, but there are a few things to check first: how late your airline will take you, whether you need a letter, how to reduce the risk of blood clots, and your insurance.

Is it safe to fly?

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) says occasional flights aren’t considered to present a risk to you or your baby, and that normal airport security checks are not considered to be a risk either. The NHS says to talk to your midwife or doctor first if you have any health issues. Miscarriage is common in the first three months whether you fly or not, so flying doesn’t cause it.

The safest time to fly

The RCOG says the safest time to fly is before 37 weeks if you’re carrying one baby, and before 32 weeks if you’re carrying uncomplicated twins. Many people choose not to fly after that because labour can begin at any time. The RCOG says most airlines don’t allow women to fly after 37 weeks, but each airline sets its own rules, so check with yours before you book.

The fit-to-fly letter

If you’re more than 28 weeks pregnant, your airline may ask for a letter from your midwife or doctor saying when your baby is due and that your pregnancy is uncomplicated. The NHS says to expect to possibly pay for it and to allow time for it. Ask early, because it can take a while.

Blood clots (DVT)

The NHS says long-distance travel (longer than 4 hours) carries a small risk of blood clots. The RCOG says on a short flight of under four hours you’re unlikely to need special measures. On longer flights, the NHS suggests:

drinking plenty of water
moving about every 30 minutes or so
wearing graduated compression stockings from a pharmacy
flexing and rotating your feet

The RCOG says that if you have other risk factors for clots, you may be advised to have heparin injections, and you need a doctor’s letter to carry them on board.

Travel insurance

The RCOG says you should always have travel insurance that covers any medical costs, and to tell your insurer that you’re pregnant before you go. The NHS says cover should include pregnancy-related medical care during labour, premature birth and changing your return date.

Vaccines, malaria and Zika

The NHS says most vaccines that use live bacteria or viruses aren’t recommended in pregnancy, and some anti-malaria tablets aren’t safe to take. Ask your GP or practice nurse well before you travel. The NHS also says it is not recommended to travel to parts of the world where the Zika virus is present. You can check the risk for a country on TravelHealthPro.

Before you go

Carry your maternity notes.
Know where the nearest hospital is.
Book an aisle seat so you can get up and use the toilet.
Don’t travel if you have bleeding, severe pain or reduced movements. Get checked first.

Questions people ask

Can I fly in the first trimester?

Yes, for most people. Sickness and tiredness can make flying harder in the first trimester, and it is worth checking for pain or bleeding before you travel.

Do airport scanners harm my baby?

The RCOG says normal security checks aren’t considered to be a risk to you or your baby.

Can I fly if I’m expecting twins?

The RCOG says the safest time to fly with an uncomplicated twin pregnancy is before 32 weeks. Check your airline’s rules.

Is it safe to fly with a high-risk pregnancy?

Ask your midwife or doctor before booking. They know your health and can advise you.