Is it safe to fly at 22 weeks gestation?

Air Travel During Pregnancy at 22 Weeks Gestation

Yes, it is safe to fly at 22 weeks gestation in the absence of obstetric or medical complications. 1

Safety of Air Travel in the Second Trimester

• The second trimester (which includes 22 weeks) is considered the safest time for pregnant women to travel, as the risk of spontaneous abortion and preterm labor is very low during this period 2
• In uncomplicated pregnancies, commercial air travel is safe up to 36 weeks for domestic flights and 35 weeks for international flights 2, 1
• Pregnant women can observe the same general precautions for air travel as the general population 3

Physiological Considerations

• Normal cabin pressure in commercial aircraft does not pose a risk of fetal hypoxia in uncomplicated pregnancies 4
• Despite the lower cabin pressure during flights, studies in pregnant women have shown that commercial flights do not threaten fetal oxygen supply in normal pregnancies 4
• Cosmic radiation exposure during a single long-distance flight is low compared to average annual exposure and does not pose significant risk to the fetus 2

Recommended Precautions During Flight

• Always use seat belts continuously while seated to protect against unexpected turbulence, which can cause trauma 1
• Take measures to minimize risk of lower extremity edema and venous thrombosis:
  • Use support stockings 1
  • Perform periodic movement of lower extremities 1
  • Avoid restrictive clothing 1
  • Walk occasionally in the aisle when it's safe to do so 1
  • Maintain adequate hydration throughout the flight 1

When to Avoid Air Travel During Pregnancy

• Pregnant women with significant risk for preterm labor should avoid air travel 3
• Those with placental abnormalities should not fly 3
• Women with medical problems that may be exacerbated by a hypoxic environment should consult with their healthcare provider and may need supplemental oxygen during air travel 3

Fetal Response to Air Travel

• Research on pregnant women who took transatlantic flights in the third trimester showed that most fetuses (63%) had no change in fetal movement during the flight itself 5
• Only a small percentage (7%) showed decreased fetal movement during flight 5

Additional Considerations

• Maintain good hydration before and during the flight
• Consider the availability of medical care at your destination
• Discuss any specific concerns with your healthcare provider before traveling, especially if you have any complications with your pregnancy 2

Remember that while flying at 22 weeks is generally considered safe in an uncomplicated pregnancy, individual medical history should be considered, and consultation with your obstetric provider before travel is always prudent.