Fancy flying to sunnier climates?Timing is the key. Airlines restrict travel beyond 36 weeks of pregnancy, many airlines also require a doctor’s permission between 28-35 weeks. Airline policies do vary so it is always a good idea to check before booking on what your airline’s policy is regarding flying during pregnancy. Why not plan it early and well within the times stipulated by the airline to avoid any added stress.

Which destination?Everyone has their own idea of what makes a perfect holiday so the destination should be your choice. There are however, a few things to consider when you are pregnant!

·         Try to avoid countries where malaria is endemic. If you need to go to a country where malaria is a threat then seek out your G.P’s advice on what medication is safe for pregnant women to take.

·         Discuss with your mid-wife or doctor for their advice on which countries they advise you avoid during pregnancy due to the inoculations not being safe for you or your unborn baby.

What to pack

·         Don’t forget to buy lots of high factor sun cream. Pregnancy will make your skin much more sensitive which will be more likely to burn in the sun. Pregnant woman can also develop chloasma which has the nick-name ‘pregnancy mask’, this is due to the body having higher levels of melanocyte. If you develop this the sun can make it worse but luckily it does fade after pregnancy. Use lots of high factor cream and stay in the shade during the hottest parts of the day.

·         Take your pregnancy medical notes with you, if you did find yourself needing medical help this will have lots of information for the doctor treating you. Top Tips for flying

·         On arrival at check –in let the check-in staff know you are pregnant. Ask for a seat near the toilet if you find yourself frequently needing a wee.

·         Remember to keep moving and stretch your legs to avoid DVT (deep vein thrombosis) and swollen ankles. Check out the exercises in your in-flight magazine which are specially designed to help people avoid DVT.

·         Keep hydrated by drinking lots of water, flying can dehydrate your body and skin so remember to keep sipping plenty of bottled water.

Bon voyage!