| Being a medical doctor, I have been approached quite | | | | 2) Generally, it is wise to avoid travel by plane during |
| often by pregnant mothers to issue a letter of | | | | the first trimester (0-12 weeks pregnancy) as |
| fitness prior to their travel by plane. | | | | miscarriages takes place at the period. This is more |
| Usually, the airline rules and regulations clearly states | | | | so if the pregnant mother has history of recurring |
| that pregnancy below 28 weeks would be allowed to | | | | pregnancy losses. |
| fly after signing a "Release & Indemnity Form" | | | | 3) Relatively speaking, it is better to travel by air in |
| to absolve the airline of any liabilities should anything | | | | the second trimester (13-27 weeks pregnancy) also |
| unforeseen happen. Pregnancy between 28-34 | | | | known as honeymoon period because many of the |
| weeks would require a medical certificate from the | | | | unpleasant effects of early pregnancy have ended. |
| attending doctor stating the date and fitness to fly. | | | | During this period, the pregnancy is more established |
| Pregnancy at and beyond 35 weeks are not allowed | | | | and more stable. |
| to travel by air. | | | | 4) Pregnancy itself is a risk factor to develop DVT |
| In addition to that, expectant mother should be | | | | (Deep Vein Thrombosis) and coupled with the long |
| informed that | | | | distance air travel, the risk is higher. |
| 1) The letter of fitness issued by the attending | | | | DVT : A condition where a clot is formed in the veins |
| doctor MUST be within 1week prior to the date of | | | | of the leg and may lead to serious consequences to |
| departure. Thus, it is only wise to consult the doctor | | | | health. |
| and get the ultrasound scan done and letter issue | | | | 5) Always inform the airline and check the airline |
| after the date of departure has been arranged. | | | | policy in carrying the pregnant passengers. |