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Travelling restrictions pregnant women should know while using airplanes

 

A Kenyan woman flying from Kinshasa complained that she was taken off the airplane because she was 20 weeks pregnant.

The airline deemed her unfit to fly and required a doctor's letter from her showing that she could fly in that condition.

Seems like most people do not know that flying while pregnant though it is deemed safe is not acceptable to most airlines.

As a pregnant woman, it is not advisable to be flying when heavily pregnant especially those in the third trimester.

When you have pregnancy complications you shouldn't travel by plane especially over long distances because anything could happen mid-air.

Most airlines will allow you to travel up to the 36th week of pregnancy but you have to call prior and enquire so that you don't have any challenges at the airport.

In the lady's case, she might have looked heavily pregnant to them and that is not the case as 20 weeks is just the 5th month of pregnancy.

If you are at risk of giving birth before your due date you also have to check with your obstetrician and also have a midwife with you for medical assistance.

Pregnancy
Image: Manuel Alejandro Leon from Pixabay

If you are prone to things like bleeding, abdominal pain, swelling, headaches, vision changes, or decreased fetal movement you shouldn't travel at all.

Those in the first trimester and are prone to morning sickness and nausea should at least carry anti-nausea medication with them.

While on an aircraft ensure you book an aisle seat that can ensure you are seated comfortably and you have ease of movement, especially on long flights to avoid blood clots.

Always ensure you check with your doctor before deciding to book that flight, especially for high-risk pregnancies and if you are prone to miscarriages.

It is safer to travel in the second trimester of pregnancy as you are free from the morning sickness era and you can move around more easily.  

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