$Unique_ID{BRK01068}
$Pretitle{Pregnancy and Childbirth}
$Title{Can Flying During Pregnancy Injure the Baby?}
$Subject{pregnancy travel flying}
$Volume{K-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Can Flying During Pregnancy Injure the Baby?


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QUESTION:  With our first baby due this spring, I have been looking forward to
a trip back home, to spend some time with my mother, but I am afraid that
flying might injure the baby in some way.  I have discussed with my husband
who thinks I am being pretty silly.  What's your opinion and advise?

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ANSWER:  It is not male chauvinism, but I do side with your husband, although
I won't go so far as to call it silly.  Lets just say it is normal concern by
an expectant mother.  Expectant mothers can and do fly regularly, but they
need to take some additional precautions just as they do on the ground.  When
making your reservations, inform the airline of your special condition and
needs, they will usually oblige quite graciously.  You're more prone to motion
sickness during pregnancy, while flying can also intensify an attack of
morning sickness.  You can minimize this by flying at night if possible, while
sitting near a window in the middle of the plane.  A brief look outside will
help keep your space orientation intact and reduce dizziness.  Recline your
chair slightly, and wear your seat belt around your groin or upper thighs to
minimize pressure on your abdomen.  If the seat belt sign is off, your
circulation can benefit from a brief walk up and down the aisle once or twice
during a long flight.  The air inside a plane is much dryer than you are
normally exposed to; treat yourself to fruit juice or soft drinks during the
trip while avoiding, as you would anytime during pregnancy, alcoholic
beverages.  Check with your personal physician about other precautions you may
take, in case I have left any out.  Safe Journey.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
