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Can you fly during your first trimester?

The first 12 weeks of your pregnancy, or your first trimester, can be a really anxious time, especially for first-time mothers. Getting away could be just what is needed after finding out there is now going to be two of you. Or, maybe you’ve had your trip planned for a while and you don’t want to cancel but can you fly pregnant during this first trimester? Here is what you need to know.

Ravenhall Group - Independent Chartered Insurance Brokers in Belfast and Leeds

Many pregnant women experience nausea, vomiting and tiredness during their first trimester. Flying when you are pregnant is not harmful to yourself or your new little one in your belly. The risk of miscarriage is higher in the first 12 weeks than at any other time during your pregnancy but that is regardless if you travel or if you’re at home. 

Things to be aware of are: 

Airline Policies

Airlines have different policies for pregnant travellers. As the probability of going into labour after 37 weeks is undoubtedly higher some airlines may not let a pregnant customer travel. However, for pregnant travellers in their first trimester Airlines would not have any issues with you travelling. However, you should let them know you are pregnant if you wish to fly during your first trimester. You will usually need a letter from your GP or midwife. This will confirm you’re healthy, have no unusual issues with your pregnancy and the due date. 

Travelling longer distances 

Most midwives and GP may advise that the shorter the plane journey the better, NHS states: “Long-distance travel (longer than 4 hours) carries a small risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis (DVT)). If you fly, drink plenty of water and move about regularly – every 30 minutes or so.” (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/travel-pregnant/) 

Travel vaccinations

The NHS says most Jabs that use live bacteria or viruses are not advised throughout pregnancy because of the effect that they could harm the pregnancy. However, “some live jabs may be allowed during pregnancy if the risk of infection outweighs the risk of live vaccination. Non-live (inactivated) vaccines are safe to use in pregnancy.” (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/travel-pregnant/) You must seek advice from your GP if you need jabs for your next trip. 

 

Getting the right insurance

While a relaxing break will certainly do mum and baby the world of good. It is extremely important you are correctly covered when you travel. We make sure you’re protected and insured correctly when you travel pregnant especially those who want to fly during their first trimester. We’ve introduced the MamAtoB product that covers mums-to-be until 4 weeks before the due date of the pregnancy.

Our policy covers:-

– Unexpected pregnancy-related medical expenses including Labour.

– Automatic inclusion of the infant for cover in the event that you give birth whilst on holiday.

– Standard travel benefit to purchasing essentials whilst away if your baby is born.

– Extended stay for one person to stay with mum and baby (if they are insured under the policy).

– Cancellation for all travellers insured under the policy should it be medically necessary.

If you are going away pregnant this year and flying during your first trimester, make sure you have a relaxing and amazing time away and if you need to discuss anything about your pregnancy travel insurance then get in touch with our team or visit our specialist pregnancy travel page to learn more.