- Barometric pressure, also referred to as air pressure or atmospheric pressure, is the weight of the Earth's atmosphere on the surface at a given location. It is dependent upon the amount of air above a location, and consequently, drops as one ascends higher while flying on an airplane.
- According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and mayoclinic.com, changes in barometric pressure that may occur while flying pose no real risk to the health of the fetus. Any decrease in air pressure may slightly reduce the amount of oxygen in the blood, but the body will naturally adjust.
- According to acog.org, the ideal time for a pregnant woman to fly is between weeks 14 and 28 of her pregnancy since most pregnancy emergencies occur during the first and third trimesters.
- Pregnant women should avoid gas-producing foods and carbonated beverages before and during a flight to reduce the discomfort that can occur from changes in air pressure. Drink plenty of clear fluids to discourage dehydration that can result in a barometric pressure-induced headache.
- For pregnant women who have certain health conditions, including severe anemia, sickle cell disease, clotting disorders or placental insufficiency, pressure changes that can occur when flying may increase the risk of problems.
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