Flying at 28 weeks with high BP

[Barefootcontessa84]

This is really a two-part question - my family live abroad, and I would usually visit them for Christmas - 7 hour flight there, a bit shorter coming back.

This year I will be 28 weeks pregnant, and risk for a number of reasons. The most relevant to flying is probably pre-existing hypertension (which is hard to control as it is very labile), and high risk of developing eclampsia as there is a family history.

My first question is, without complications would I actually be comfortable flying at this point? Secondly, is it likely my consultant won't sign a fit to fly note in any event, because of the complications?

The trip is essentially like going home, so will be relaxing. My uncle is also a doctor there (excellent healthcare), so I would have all the help I needed if anything went wrong.

Need to make a decision soon, as ticket prices are skyrocketing!

[PeppaPigTastesLikeBacon]

I probably wouldn't do it. At 28 weeks I wasn't too uncomfortable but found just sitting in the cinema for a couple of hours a bit uncomfortable and tiring.
I think the biggest thing would be to speak to your health care provider and see what they say. 7hrs on a flight could be too much!

[Barefootcontessa84]

Yes I'm hoping when I see the doctor on Friday, he will give me definitive advice! So hard to make the decision otherwise, as it'll mean not seeing my family over Christmas.

[PeppaPigTastesLikeBacon]

Would they not be able to come visit you? Your dr will be best to advise and you can always book the ticket knowing you may have to take a loss (although hold off till after you have spoken to the dr)

[elmo1980]

Barefoot how did you get on with your doc? I did a 7 hour flight a couple of days ago at 28 weeks and if I didn't have the fit to fly letter from my midwife I don't think the airline were going to let me on. Even when she read it she had to make a phone call. Then when I got on board a stewardess questioned me so I think it's more about the airline you fly with not just what your dr says.