on board
Annerley’s team
of maternity and
early childhood
experts share
their advice for
safe and happy
family flights.
Flying while
pregnant
Hulda Thorey, registered midwife and founder of Annerley,
recommends:
•
If possible, travel during the second trimester (14 to 28 weeks).
This is the time you are likely to feel your best and the risks of
miscarriage and premature labour are the lowest.
•
Drink lots of water before and during a flight, and take
regular washroom breaks. Try to move around regularly
and exercise your legs while you are seated. Also, try
keeping your hands and fingers mobile to avoid water
retention around your joints.
•
If you are prone to fluid retention, on the morning of the flight,
put pressure stockings on before getting out of bed and wear
them throughout the journey.
•
Wear flat, wide shoes that can stretch, because your feet will
increase in size during the flight due to water retention.
•
Be sure to wear a bra that fits comfortably, and avoid ones
with underwire.
•
Get a “fit to fly” certificate in the seven days before your
flight. Midwives or doctors can provide this after a routine
check-up.
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