A pregnancy that proceeds without problems, in general, does not represent a contraindication to air travel if planned within 36 weeks. If the flight is scheduled during the 9th month of gestation, instead, the doctor's approval is necessary, taking into consideration that the rules may vary depending on the airline; in some cases, a certificate issued by the gynecologist that certifies the gestational age and the expected date of birth is required.
As for high-risk pregnancies - for example, due to complications such as hypertension, untreated gestational diabetes or placental insufficiency - the possibility of taking a plane must be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
During the flight, the future mother can take some precautions to avoid unnecessary stress. First of all, the safety belts must be worn along the sides, under the belly, so as not to compress it. To combat the risk of thromboembolic phenomena due to immobility, it is advisable to wear shoes that do not compress the instep and support stockings that favor venous return through compression of the blood vessels of the legs (available for healthcare). At least every half hour it is advisable to get up and walk a few minutes to reactivate the circulation (for this reason, at the time of booking you should ask for a side seat, near the corridor). Other advice: remember to drink a lot during and after the trip to avoid the risk of dehydration.
