Travel Safety

When travel should be avoided during pregnancy

When travel should be avoided during pregnancy

The main reason to avoid travel: instability, not the calendar In an uncomplicated pregnancy, travel is often possible. But when clinicians recommend avoiding travel, the reason is usually that the pregnancy is no longer low risk, or that a complication could require immediate evaluation. The issue is less about the mode of transport and more […]

Can long flights or turbulence harm the baby

Can long flights or turbulence harm the baby

What happens to the baby at cabin altitude? Commercial aircraft cabins are pressurized, but not to sea level. That means the oxygen partial pressure is somewhat lower than on the ground, a state sometimes described as mild hypobaric hypoxia. In healthy adults, that change is usually well tolerated; the CDC notes that most healthy travelers […]

Is airport security safe for pregnant women

Is airport security safe for pregnant women

The short answer: yes, airport security is generally safe For most pregnant travelers, airport security screening is considered safe. The CDC states that older airport security machines, such as magnetometers, are not harmful to the fetus. The Transportation Security Administration also says that all screening equipment at the checkpoint is safe for all travelers, including […]

Driving during pregnancy: safety and seatbelt use

Driving during pregnancy: safety and seatbelt use

Why car safety matters in pregnancy Motor vehicle crashes are an important cause of trauma in pregnancy. Injury patterns can involve the pregnant person, the uterus, the placenta, and the fetus. Even when the abdomen appears uninjured, sudden deceleration may transmit force through the body, and placental abruption, uterine contractions, membrane rupture, or fetomaternal hemorrhage […]

Flying during pregnancy: safety and restrictions

Flying during pregnancy: safety and restrictions

Is it safe to fly while pregnant? For most people with an uncomplicated pregnancy, occasional air travel is considered safe. Commercial aircraft cabins are pressurized, and the lower cabin oxygen level is not usually a problem for a healthy pregnant traveler or fetus. Airport security screening and routine cosmic radiation exposure from occasional flights are […]