Can pregnant women go through the TSA machine at the airport safely?
The TSA’s screening machines use safe “non-ionizing electromagnetic waves”. This form of energy should not be confused by x-rays, which uses high doses of radiation and is dangerous for a pregnant woman. Electromagnetic waves are a form of energy that contains an electric and magnetic field traveling at the speed of light. These types of energy waves are considered safe since it’s reflected off the body and does not go through the body.
If a pregnant woman is still uncomfortable walking through those intimidating machines, a “pat down” is always an alternative while going through airport security.
Are the Millimeter wave detector machines (the ones that puff air and look like a big phone booth safe for pregnant women to go through?
Millimeter wave detector machines use a low dose X-ray beams that moves around the person. This form of harmless energy uses radio frequency that bounces off the body while exposing hidden items. The image appears produces a holographic, 3D image and is completely safe. Energy forms that bounce off or move around the body, as opposed to going through the body, has insignificant safety concerns to a growing baby.
How many flights is too many for a pregnant woman to take during her 9 months?
As long as a pregnancy is uncomplicated, a pregnant woman can fly safely, without restrictions and follow the same precautions for air travel as the general population according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). The one footnote is airlines allow pregnant women to fly up to 36 weeks domestically and even earlier if flying internationally. Your obstetrician will have their own “stop” date. I generally recommend pregnant women stop flying after 34 weeks.
Does a pregnant woman need a prescription for compression stockings?
Compression or support stockings can be purchased “over the counter” for travel or every day wear during pregnancy at your local CVS, a reputable drug store and even Amazon. “Medium” pressure compression stocking are best used to reduce the risk of blood clots for a pregnant woman by helping the blood circulate in the lower legs.
Jobst is one of the most reputable companies for buying compression stocking.
Why is hydration extra important for a pregnant woman on an airplane?
Whether you are pregnant or not, air travel has a dehydrating effect on the body since there is very little moisture in circulating cabin air. When your body is dehydrated blood thickens increasing your risk of blood clots. Since pregnancy is already a condition where blood thickens, being dehydrated further increases this risk of clotting while pregnant. During pregnancy there is an additional need to make sure you are drinking a lot of water, 8 to 12 glasses of water a day is suggested.
So when a pregnant woman travels by air, it even more important to drink water during throughout the flight.
What tips do you have for flying on an airplane?
Air travel has a dehydrating effect on the body since there is very little moisture in circulating cabin air. When your body is dehydrated blood thickens increasing your risk of blood clots. Since pregnancy is already a condition where blood thickens, being dehydrated further increases this risk of clotting while pregnant. During pregnancy there is an additional need to make sure you are drinking a lot of water, 8 to 12 glasses of water a day is suggested especially while flying.
Compression or support stockings can be purchased over the counter for travel if you will be sitting for long periods of time in air or on land. “Medium” pressure compression stocking is best used to reduce the risk of blood clots for a pregnant woman by helping the blood circulate in the lower legs.
Hopefully, a pregnant woman traveling would have already received the flu vaccine during the pregnancy. When travelling always bring antibacterial hand wipes or alcohol-based hand sanitizer in your carry-on bag. Wipe off common surfaces such as the tray table, TV remote and other areas around your seat. When using the restroom, wash your hands with wipes or soap and water. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and anyone around you who is coughing or sneezing. Probably the most effective way to prevent colds and flu during air travel is to wear a face mask on the airplane.
During long road trips in the car make sure there are frequent pit stops for bathroom breaks.
Ensure you, and your traveling companions, have the proper vaccinations, especially COVID and flu vaccines, before travelling.
How late can you fly pregnant internationally?
As long as a pregnancy is uncomplicated, a pregnant woman can fly safely internationally until 32-34 weeks. The one footnote is airlines allow pregnant women to fly up to 36 weeks domestically, and even earlier if flying internationally. Your obstetrician will have their own “stop” date. I generally recommend pregnant women stop flying internationally before 32 weeks.
Does flying during the first trimester of pregnancy increase the risk of miscarriage?
Flying in the first trimester of pregnancy does not increase a person’s miscarriage rate.
When can you not fly when pregnant?
Pregnancy’s complicated by a history of ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, threatened miscarriage, vaginal bleeding, incompetent cervix, uterine irritability, premature labor, premature rupture of membrane, placenta abnormalities and maternal medical complications like pre-eclampsia would not be allowed to travel without consulting your Obstetrician
When during pregnancy should you stop traveling
As long as a pregnancy is uncomplicated, a pregnant woman can travel safely, without restrictions, until 32-34 weeks depending on their destination. I generally recommend pregnant women stop traveling, especially by air, by 32-34 weeks depending on the destination. Follow up with your obstetrician, who will have their own “stop” date for you, based on your pregnancy history.
How can someone counteract swelling/blood clots from all the sitting during travel?
Whether you are pregnant or not, air travel has a dehydrating effect on the body since there is very little moisture in circulating cabin air. When your body is dehydrated blood thickens increasing your risk of blood clots. Since pregnancy is already a condition where blood thickens, being dehydrated further increases this risk of clotting while pregnant. During pregnancy there is an additional need to make sure you are drinking a lot of water, 8 to 12 glasses of water a day is suggested.
Compression stockings are best used to reduce the risk of blood clots for a pregnant woman by helping the blood circulate in the lower legs.
Is it safe to drive while pregnant? Are airbags safe during pregnancy?
It’s definitely safe to drive while pregnant. Every pregnant person should wear a seatbelt while driving or traveling as a passenger in a car. You should wear the seat belt in the same manner you would if you were not pregnant. Don’t ever think it’s potentially more harmful to wear a lap and shoulder seat belt over a pregnant belly. Never put the lap belt on or above your belly nor put the shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back.
Always keep a safe distance between your pregnant and growing belly and the steering wheel which is about 10 inches.
Airbags are safe and protective to mom and baby if involved in a car accident. Don’t turn the airbags off since they can protect mom and baby if involved in an accident.
If a pregnant woman gets in an accident while not wearing a seatbelt it could lead to a miscarriage, preterm labor, premature rupture of the fetal membranes (break your bag of water), placental separation from the uterine wall, fetal trauma, and death.
How can someone prepare for any travel emergencies that may occur?
It’s wise to be prepared for unforeseen situations. Have important contact numbers readily available, including your healthcare provider’s information, local emergency services, and your travel insurance details. Pack necessary medications, prenatal records, and ensure you have access to medical facilities if needed.
What medical red flags should someone be aware of when traveling while pregnant?
Be aware of warning signs such as vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, sudden swelling of hands or face, persistent headaches, or decreased fetal movements. Contact a healthcare professional immediately if you experience any of these symptoms while traveling.
Can pregnant women go through metal detectors?
Women who are pregnant often have a concern about the effects of radiation from a metal detector. There are no health risks to pregnant women from going through a walk through metal detector or from operating the device that are currently known. These devices are well shielded and emit a low level of radiation that is safe and poses no health risks to a pregnant woman.
What are some important safety precautions women should make when traveling by plane?
Air travel has a dehydrating effect on the body since there is very little moisture in circulating cabin air. When your body is dehydrated blood thickens increasing your risk of blood clots. Since pregnancy is already a condition where blood thickens, being dehydrated further increases this risk of clotting while pregnant. During pregnancy there is an additional need to make sure you are drinking a lot of water, 8 to 12 glasses of water a day is suggested especially while flying.
Compression or support stockings can be purchased over the counter for travel if you will be sitting for long periods of time in air or on land. “Medium” pressure compression stocking is best used to reduce the risk of blood clots for a pregnant woman by helping the blood circulate in the lower legs.
How to avoid germs on planes, hotel rooms and rest stops while traveling?
Hopefully, a pregnant woman travelling would have already received the flu vaccine during the pregnancy. When travelling always bring antibacterial hand wipes or alcohol-based hand sanitizer in your carry-on bag. Wipe off common surfaces such as the tray table, TV remote and other areas around your seat. When using the restroom, wash your hands with the wipes or soap and water. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and anyone around you who is coughing or sneezing. Probably the most effective way to prevent colds and flu’s during air travel is to wear a face mask on the airplane.
Are there any types of trips or destinations that should be avoided completely during pregnancy? Is the Zika virus a concern?
A pregnant woman should avoid any vacation destinations where the Zika virus has been identified. The Zika virus can pass from a pregnant woman to her baby through an infected mosquito bite and through sex without a condom with someone infected by Zika. You can go to the CDC website to see if the Zika virus is present at your travel destination. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/zika-information
How can I avoid mosquito bites that could be infected with the Zika virus?
The best way to prevent mosquitoes bites it to do the following:
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Stay in places with air condition and window and door screens to keep mosquitos outside
- Sleep under a mosquito bed net if you are sleeping outside.
- Use insect repellents that contain DEET and other Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered products.
- Wear clothing that has already been treated with permethrin mosquito repellent.
- Radiation exposure
Eating healthy while traveling?
Eating a well balance and colorful diet during pregnancy is important. When traveling you can bring healthy snacks in your carry-on bag including protein bars, nuts, trail mix, whole-grain crackers, fruit-fresh and dried, yogurt, peanut butter and veggie individual packets and granola bars to satisfy your hungry and prevent you having to eat airplane food.
It’s also important to make sure you have an ample supply of water so add a liter of your favorite water to your carry-on bag.
What if a pregnant woman needs medical care while traveling. How do you recommend she find a good doctor?
I always remind my patients to take a copy of their medical records, especially if they are in the third trimester, and find out where the nearest hospital is located during their travels. If they are visiting family or friends, they have easier access in finding a reliable doctor.
When is too late for a woman to board a plane or cruise ship while pregnant?
As long as a pregnancy is uncomplicated, a pregnant woman can fly or take a cruise safely, without restrictions and follow the same precautions for travel as the general population according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). The one footnote is airlines allow pregnant women to fly up to 36 weeks domestically and even earlier if flying internationally. Your obstetrician will have their own “stop” date. I generally recommend pregnant women stop flying after 34 weeks.
No matter where you visiting if you have an unexpected pregnancy complication, such as preterm labor, this could be place where you may be stuck for days or weeks without your planned support team.
If a pregnant woman is still uncomfortable walking through those intimidating machines, a “pat down” is always an alternative while going through airport security.
There is no need to fear the wave detector machines during the TSA check-in process. Millimeter wave detector machines use a low dose X-ray beams that moves around the person. This form of harmless energy uses radio frequency that bounces off the body while exposing hidden items. The image appears produces a holographic, 3D image and is completely safe. Energy forms that bounce off or move around the body, as opposed to going through the body, has insignificant safety concerns to a growing baby.
