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Travelling by air

It is safe for women with uncomplicated pregnancies to travel by air. However, your doctor may recommend that you should not fly in the first three months of pregnancy if: 

• you have excessive morning sickness
• there is a threat of miscarriage

During the last two months of the pregnancy you should not fly if you have:

• raised blood pressure
• an increased risk of premature labour

Before you travel

Always check with the airline or holiday company about their rules on pregnant passengers before you book. Some will allow you to fly beyond the recommended period. However, many airlines will need a letter from your midwife or doctor detailing when you are due to give birth.

Flying comfortably

Because travelling by plane can be quite cramped it is important to ask the airline about the options available to make your trip more comfortable. These may include:

• booking an additional seat next to you so that you have more room
  
• asking for a seat with additional leg room
  
• asking to be upgraded to first/club/business class, some of which will have beds
  
• asking to be seated where you can easily get out of your seat and stretch - for example near the rear of the plane or on the aisle

It is likely that some of these options will add to the cost of your flight and the price will vary from airline to airline.

During the flight

There are a number of things you can do to make sure you are comfortable and safe. Pregnant women are at higher risk from Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). DVT is potentially fatal blood clots in veins, particularly in the leg area. To minimise the risk, you can try the following:

• wear special DVT socks - these are available to buy in pharmacies and airport shops
  
• take a break from your seat every hour or so and walk around/performing some simple stretches
  
• avoid wearing tight clothing
  
• wear comfortable shoes, or no shoes at all, as your feet may swell up
  
• drink plenty of water and fruit juice - avoid food and drink that will dehydrate you (eg tea, coffee)

Travelling by road

Travelling by road in a coach or car is safe during pregnancy. However, if the journey is long and you aren’t moving for long periods of time, then you are at risk from DVT. Follow the same tips as suggested above for flying while pregnant.

Travelling by rail

There are currently no restrictions on pregnant women travelling abroad by rail, for example on Eurostar or via the Channel Tunnel.

Travelling by boat

Many ferry operators have similar guidelines to airlines so make sure you speak to them before you book. Ferries have plenty of room for you to walk around and stretch, and you can ask about booking reclining seats or a cabin for longer trips.

Travel insurance

Make sure that you are fully covered on your insurance policy, not just for the flight but for your whole holiday. Insurance companies will have a similar set of rules and regulations to the travel companies. Take your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you at all times in case you need emergency medical treatment abroad.

• European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)