Why shouldn't pregnant women fly?

On an airplane, changes in air pressure cause changes in the blood flow nourishing the fetus in the pregnant woman's body, stimulating the uterus and increasing the risk of premature birth.

Recently, a pregnant woman in her 32nd week of pregnancy unexpectedly went into labor on a flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang. Many people are asking: Why shouldn't pregnant women fly? If they must, what precautions should they take?

Pregnant woman successfully gives birth on airplane. Photo: Nguyen Dong.

Dr. Nguyen Canh Chuong, Head of the Scientific Research Department at Hanoi Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, advises women against flying while pregnant, especially those in their third trimester. If air travel is unavoidable, both the mother and fetus should have their health checked before departure. The doctor's certificate should clearly state the number of weeks of pregnancy and that the passenger is healthy enough to travel. Pregnant women over 36 weeks are not allowed to fly.

Dr. Chuong explained that the first reason is that changes in pressure with altitude alter blood circulation in the body, causing uneven blood flow to the fetus, stimulating the uterus and increasing the risk of premature birth. The second reason is that people usually sit on airplanes. For pregnant women, sitting for long periods in an environment with changing pressure can cause blood to pool in the lower body. "Less blood returns to the heart, leading to various blood pressure problems and blood clots. The larger the fetus, the more serious the risk," Dr. Chuong explained.

Doctor Chương emphasized that pregnant women with health problems should absolutely not beYou should travel by plane."Pregnant women often experience high blood pressure and cardiovascular problems during pregnancy."having diabetes,problems with amniotic fluid, placenta, or vaginal bleeding, a history of premature birth,or have a history of blood clots, even before pregnancy."Having given birth to twins or triplets... you shouldn't travel by plane," the male doctor said.

Even if the pregnancy goes to its full potential...Gentle advice: Doctors also advise pregnant women not to fly in their last month of pregnancy, especially when they are focusing their energy on preparing for childbirth. Airlines often have regulations requiring pregnant women from the 27th week onwards to declare their pregnancy before boarding. "If a pregnant woman absolutely must travel by this means of transport, she should have a prenatal check-up beforehand to check the fetus's condition.""If you have an abdominal problem, you must report it to the relevant department so they can arrange a suitable seat on the plane," Dr. Chuong advised.

Additionally, pregnant women should eat a full meal before flying, avoiding carbonated foods and drinks. For long flights, pregnant women should stretch their legs to reduce the risk of lower limb edema and venous thrombosis. To avoid injury from aircraft turbulence, pregnant women should fasten their seatbelts below their hips.

According to VNE