Travelling while pregnant
Timing of travel
Pregnant travellers can normally travel safely by air. In the absence of medical or obstetrical complications, pregnant women can safely fly up to 36 weeks gestation.
Transportation riskAlways wear a seatbelt whether travelling by plane, car or train. When using a diagonal shoulder strap with a lap belt, the straps should be placed carefully above and below your stomach. If only a lap belt is available, fasten at the pelvic area, below your stomach.
- The safest time to travel is between the 18th and 24th weeks of pregnancy. Most common obstetric emergencies occur in the first and third trimesters.
- The decision to travel should be made in consultation with your health care provider. Discuss the purpose of travel, destination(s), length of the trip, planned activities, underlying medical and/or pregnancy related complications and available medical care in other countries.
- If you decide to travel while pregnant, make sure that you have proper travel health insurance. Review your policy and the coverage it provides, as most policies do not automatically cover pregnancy-related conditions or hospital care for premature infants.
Pregnant travellers can normally travel safely by air. In the absence of medical or obstetrical complications, pregnant women can safely fly up to 36 weeks gestation.
Transportation riskAlways wear a seatbelt whether travelling by plane, car or train. When using a diagonal shoulder strap with a lap belt, the straps should be placed carefully above and below your stomach. If only a lap belt is available, fasten at the pelvic area, below your stomach.
- Air travel
- Pregnant travellers can normally travel safely by air. In the absence of medical or obstetrical complications, pregnant women can safely fly up to 36 weeks gestation.
- Most airlines restrict travel in late pregnancy or may require a written confirmation from a physician. Check with the airline regarding their requirements before booking your flight.
- Pregnant women have a higher risk of developing blood clots known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The risk of DVT can be reduced by getting up and walking around occasionally, exercising and stretching your legs while seated and selecting an aisle seat when possible. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and loose clothing. Your health care provider may recommend additional ways to reduce your risk such as wearing compression stockings.
Essential information for Canadians travelling outside Canada