You can safely take a plane during your first and second trimester of your pregnancy. Be careful, however, to seek the advice of your doctor if you have suffered or are suffering from: spotting; diabetes, high blood pressure or if you have ever given birth to a premature baby.
Then prefer the second trimester of pregnancy (between the 14th and 27th week) to travel. The nausea is behind you and you have more energy. If you have to take a plane to go on vacation, take advantage of being able to still travel light, without a stroller, diapers or baby toys.
If you are pregnant and have had no particular problems since the start of your pregnancy, you can fly until week 36. However, some airlines are reluctant to allow pregnant women to travel beyond 28 weeks gestation due to the risk of preterm delivery.
You will not be asked if you are pregnant when booking your ticket, but at check-in you may be asked for your term date. In fact, an airline may deny you access to the plane if they are concerned about the progress of your pregnancy. To avoid this type of situation and especially to be sure to travel without risk, ask your gynecologist or your midwife for written authorization. This certificate must confirm the date of your term, certify that you have been examined by a doctor and that you are not at risk of giving birth within the next 72 hours.
When you have to take a plane, be aware of your airline's regulations, but also of the fact that you may not travel comfortably due to your condition and often too small seats. Don't overlook the risk of medical emergencies, either. Are you ready to take the risk of having premature contractions on a safari in the African savannah? When possible, avoid traveling to areas without emergency medical services.
Taking a plane during pregnancy may slightly increase your risk of phlebitis and varicose veins. Wear compression stockings when you take the plane to ensure good blood circulation and soothe swollen veins. To be on the safe side, put on the socks before you even get up in the morning and keep them on all day.
You may have heard that exposure to natural radiation is higher on airplanes, and that this can increase the risk of miscarriage or birth defects. The risk would be slightly higher in pregnant women and in people who fly hundreds of times a year, however it is negligible if you only fly a few times a year.
Deadline for woman's travel on Saudia Airlines planes during pregnancy
No passenger is accepted on flights operated by the Saudi Arabian company beyond her 32nd week of pregnancy unless she provides a MEDIF medical certificate issued by a gynecologist (ten days maximum before departure). Download the form Here.
Traveling with an infant
Saudi Airlines accepts newborns after their first weeks of birthdays. For newborns over 48 hours of age, parents can transport them, but must first provide a medical certificate from the attending physician stating that the newborn is in good health and can travel safely on his plane.
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