Flying at 34 weeks pregnant?

[eloisie]

i am wondering whether to do a 48-hour return trip (2 hour international flight) at 34 weeks pregnant due to a personal situation. Midwife has given me a fit to fly certificate but I wonder if despite that it’s too risky - I’d be flying without DH. I’d welcome your opinions. Many thanks!

Really depends where you're going I think and why. I wouldn't like to risk it as if you go into labour a few weeks early you could end up giving birth abroad and the hassle of paperwork that will haunt the rest of your child's life due to this doesn't seem worth it. However, if it is to visit a dying parent or similar then honestly I can see myself taking the risk. That advice is for if you are going to a safe country with good medical facilities that will be affordable.

If you are going somewhere where the medical facilities are poor, or cost a huge amount of money over and above insurance for giving birth then it's an absolute no I would say. Don't risk giving birth somewhere that wouldn't be prepared for a premature birth, or where you could risk being stuck for weeks after etc.

Would depend where and why.

I would totally agree with Mocktail.

Some airlines won't allow you to fly past 30 weeks, even with a fit to fly, so worth checking that out.

I'm sorry OP but you would be mad to do that. What if you go into labour?

I flew alone at 33 weeks, discussed with my midwife, and I felt well with no concerns so went ahead. I didn't even get stopped at the airport on the way out, but they did ask for my GPs note on the return journey. Didn't have any issues at all, and didn't miss any appointments either. I was 26 and having a low risk pregnancy, it would depend on circumstances for me and I probably wouldn't have flown that late in my next two pregnancies just because I was more tired!

Thank you for the advice. I will not pick up on the suggestion of being mad which seems to forget that if one is considering this there must be fairly specific and difficult family circumstances. It is for a funeral and to a close destination in the EU. Midwife also felt it would be ok. On reflection I do not feel comfortable and as hard as the decision was to take in the circumstances I have decided not to go.

I think you’ve made the best decision. Do you now have peace of mind about?
My condolences to you and your family.

I flew twice weekly for work until 36 weeks. No issues at all.

Firstly, i am so sorry for your loss.

secondly, your midwife knows your health better than us and we don't know the personal circumstances so we can't make the decision for you.

I gave birth at 34 weeks so a bit skewed in my views here. if i really wanted to go i'd look at my research as to the nearest hospital to the airport and whereever you are staying, speak to your insurance company - what happens if you give birth there? would you have any support if that was to happen? Do you have any health issues or any reason to think you may go early?