Surgical abortion before long haul flight

[autumn5678]

I had a surgical abortion yesterday morning without anaesthetic, and I have a long haul flight booked to New York tonight. I'm going for just under 2 weeks on my own.

The procedure was meant to be done days ago but it's been a week of complications with the appointment and awful morning sickness so could only get it done yesterday. Everyone has advised me not to fly and I am probably going to change my flight to Tuesday, as much as it breaks my heart to lose a few days in NYC, but I just wanted to ask whether you would do the same or would you just fly the day after and get it over with?

Change your flight and recover. Last thing you need is an infection or discomfort. If a medical professional has advised you not to fly them you shouldn't

I think you need to take the reason for the surgery out of the equation - if you had any other type of surgery that day before a long haul flight, would you fly against doctors orders?

Also I suspect it would invalidate your travel insurance, which is vital in the US as medical care is extortionate.

I think it's because it was without anaesthetic, so I haven't had that groggy/dozy feeling - I feel quite normal.

I told myself I would decide the flight this morning and expected to wake up knowing I should change to Tues, but I've woke up with holiday excitement which I can't shake!

If it is the medical professionals who have told you not to fly, I wouldn't fly.

I would consider risks such as infection because, as has been said, medical costs in the us are extortionate and you might not go covered by your insurance. You probably need to infirm the insurance company anyway actually.

Have you asked what the risks are?my gp advised me not to travel when I had a kidney infection. but admitted he would have gone because the ABs would have kicked in en route. As they did for me.

And fwiw I felt fine 24 hours after my surgical abortion too. I wouldn't have wanted to run a marathon but could have sat on a plane

Yes, I think the insurance issue is key - have you checked to see if there are any clauses in your travel insurance related to recent surgery?

Have you had medical advice not to fly, or just well-meaning advice from friends?

Some advice from NHS Choices here - you may also need to consider your airline's policy.

Thanks all

It regards to advice not to fly - my GP mentioned it and the nurses at Marie Stopes did also, although when I first had my phone consultation they told me it was due to the anaesthetic (which is why I had it without) but on the day I was told it was actually due to the surgery.

It's very frustrating because I feel 'fine', albeit a bit tired and with a 'feeling' down below (not cramping but I'm aware of it, if that makes sense), but am completely torn with what I want to do and what I should do

I don't have to leave for the airport til 1pm and can change my flight (£140) until 30 mins before I depart. Going to ring travel insurance as soon as it opens to check about surgery too.

Just an update.. am booking for Tuesday. Thanks for all your input. Looking forward to a few days of rest (and also hoping the NYC snow has disappeared by then!)

Oh good I was just about to post 'well I wouldn't' - take good care OP xx

I was just going to add a voice to the 'I wouldnt's too.

I hope you enjoy your holiday. NYC is one of my most favourite places.

Oh good - think that sounds v sensible. Have a lovely time :)