Tavelling by plane in my third trimester

[EmmyJo]

I had been nagging my partner for ages about having a pre-baby holiday. So after hours trying to find dates we can both manage we just booked a week in Portugal and are set to fly in my 29th week. I am now freaking out about the possible risk of premature labour and harm to the baby and slightly regretting the decision to book. Anyone flown late on with any experiences to share? I am feeling guilty about it already!!

[FunkyGlassSlipper]

I did it at 33 weeks. No problems. Check the airlines policy before you go.

[dizzydixies]

hi
I can't really help as haven't flown late on with either of mine but thought I would try to give you a laugh by telling you I'm the opposite - we're meant to be going on the package holiday from hell (I'm not a snob honestly) with inlaws/sister in law and her 3 kids in june/july when I'll hopefully be 28/29wks pregnant - if all goes well at scan this will be my get out of jail free card for not going!!!!!!

you can get a check by the dr and they'll examine you and confirm that you're not in any immediate danger of going in labour - just get confirmation from airline that they're willing to take you though as I would hate for you to be turned away at airport.

and please don't feel guilty about it - you deserve a break before baby arrives, am seriously considering still sending dh and dds so I can get peace and quiet at home for a wk!!!

dizzy

[spackcat]

My sister in law flew all the way to Melbourne Aus' when she was 36 weeks!!! And she didn't tell anyone at the airport or on the plane she was preggers! (She wore a very big coat!!) She was fine, wore dvt socks and moved about as much as poss'. (she has balls of steel, my sil!)

[BellaBear]

It's worth getting a letter whatever the airline says as you it can all depend on who is on the gate as you check in, I've heard, so £10 or so for a GP's letter is worthwhile.

I haven't flown since 17 weeks, but I know people who have and have had no problems - my GP's advice, which I did follow, was to wear those long flight socks and to walk around as much as possible (but that was on a 22 hour flight!)

[BellaBear]

I've also heard that the reason airlines don't want you to fly after 34 weeks or so is not because of any health risks, but because the cost of landing at a different airport if you go into labour is enormous!

[Bessie123]

If you are flying after 29 weeks you will need a letter from your doc or midwife. They might charge to provide it but most don't. Just make sure you wear support socks and go for a little walk every couple of hours; you will be fine.

[sb6699]

Check the airlines policy before you go and take proof of your due date with you to prove you comply.

I flew regularly in my third trimester with no3 as was looking for a house down south (stayed in Glasgow at the time) with no problems.

You're midwife will be able to reassure you. If you're not experiencing any problems with your pg there really isn't any reason not to go in fact it will probably do you the world of good!!!

[derah]

I just got back this morning from Christmas in Cape Town, which is a 12-hour flight, and am 30 weeks pg. The flight was a little uncomfortable - couldn't really sleep, flight socks are bothersome and bump was painful. But I survived, and the holiday was awesome and well worth it. A flight to Portugal would be much easier.

I got a letter from my GP but even though I thrust out my bump at check-in (in the hopes of an upgrade - didn't happen ), no-one said anything and didn't ask for it.

I say go for it, enjoy yourself while you have a little freedom!!

[beforesunrise]

am going to portugal for a wedding at 32 weeks pregnant. TAP said you can fly without docs certificate up to 36 weeks. all airlines are different, but in general you can fly with or without docs certificate until quite late. you may not be covered by your travel insurance though, so check. However, if you've got your EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) that entitles you to free treatment in other EU countries as you would in the UK. you can get it from here

www.dh.gov.uk/en/Policyandguidance/Healthadvicefortravellers/Gettingtreatmentaroundthewor ld/EEAandSwitzerland/DH_4114793

you won't need it, but it's good to know you're covered.

most of all, enjoy it!!!

[EmmyJo]

Wow - all very reassuring. Thanks so much everyone. (smile)