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- $Unique_ID{BRK01068}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Can Flying During Pregnancy Injure the Baby?}
- $Subject{pregnancy travel fly flying airplane airplanes motion sickness seat
- belt groin pregnant pregnancies lifestyle lifestyles}
- $Volume{K-23}
- $Log{}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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- Can Flying During Pregnancy Injure the Baby?
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- QUESTION: With our first baby due this spring, I have been looking forward to
- a trip back home, to spend some time with my mother; but I am afraid that
- flying might injure the baby in some way. I have discussed with my husband
- who thinks I am being pretty silly. What's your opinion and advice?
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- ANSWER: It is not male chauvinism, but I do side with your husband, although
- I won't go so far as to call it silly. Let's just say it is normal concern by
- an expectant mother. Expectant mothers can and do fly regularly, but they
- need to take some additional precautions just as they do on the ground. When
- making your reservations, inform the airline of your special condition and
- needs; they will usually oblige quite graciously. You're more prone to motion
- sickness during pregnancy, while flying can also intensify an attack of
- morning sickness. You can minimize this by flying at night if possible, while
- sitting near a window in the middle of the plane. A brief look outside will
- help keep your space orientation intact and reduce dizziness. Recline your
- chair slightly, and wear your seat belt around your groin or upper thighs to
- minimize pressure on your abdomen. If the seat belt sign is off, your
- circulation can benefit from a brief walk up and down the aisle once or twice
- during a long flight. The air inside a plane is much dryer than you are
- normally exposed to; treat yourself to fruit juice or soft drinks during the
- trip while avoiding, as you would anytime during pregnancy, alcoholic
- beverages. Check with your personal physician about other precautions you may
- take, in case I have left any out. Safe Journey.
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- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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