Travel in Pregnancy

Safe until 36 weeks gestation (32 weeks if Multiple Gestation)
1. Carry documented ED+C (due date) with travel papers
Relative Contraindications to Air Travel
1. Airline travel after 36 weeks (after 32 weeks if Multiple Gestation)
2. Severe Anemia or Sickle Cell Anemia
3. Thrombophlebitis
Prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis
1. See DVT Prevention in Travelers
2. Consider Compression Stockings
3. Walk every half hour during flight
4. Perform Isometric Exercises (e.g. flex and extend ankles) frequently while sitting
5. Stay hydrated
Cesarean Delivery
1. Air travel safe 1-2 weeks after procedure
Newborns
1. Avoid travel for first 1-2 weeks (at least >48 hours) after delivery
2. Consult pediatric pulmonology before air travel in children with chronic lung disease
Radiation Exposure
1. Background radiation
  1. Does not appear to increase Teratogenicity in pregnancy
  2. However, pregnant frequent flyers, pilots, and flight attendants may be exposed to higher radiation doses
2. Body image scanners for security screening
  1. Appear to be safe in pregnancy

See First Aid Travel Kit
Avoid contaminated food and water
1. See Prevention of Foodborne Illness
2. Hepatitis E is particularly dangerous in pregnancy
Travel to areas with Malaria
1. Avoid this travel during pregnancy if possible
2. See Prevention of Vector-borne Infection
3. Malaria Prophylaxis as directed by CDC
  1. Chloroquine and Mefloquine are used in pregnancy
Update important Immunizations based on CDC guidelines
1. See Immunization in Pregnancy