Flying while pregnant
We want to make sure that you can travel the world no matter what phase of life you’re in. So, we’ve gathered all our best tips, tricks and advice for flying while pregnant.
Flying while pregnant
We want to make sure that you can travel the world no matter what phase of life you’re in. So, we’ve gathered all our best tips, tricks and advice for flying while pregnant.
Planning your trip
Depending on which trimester you’re in, flying while you’re pregnant is just like any other trip. But there may be a few extra steps to take if your pregnancy is farther along or high-risk.
Get a medical certificate
You might need medical clearance to fly if you are 36 weeks, or if this is a high-risk pregnancy. We recommend you speak with a doctor before flying and to send a medical certificate to corpmed@united.com.
You can find information on what a medical certificate includes on our traveling with medical conditions page.
Choose the right seat
Which seat will work best for you depends on your needs.
Aisle seats
These seats are easiest to get in and out of to go to the bathroom.
Bulkhead and premium cabin
Bulkhead seats, which are the seats just behind the wall that separates cabins, and premium cabin seats are the most spacious.
Over the wing
Seats over the wing will typically offer the smoothest ride if there’s turbulence.
Aisle seats
These seats are easiest to get in and out of to go to the bathroom.
Bulkhead and premium cabin
Bulkhead seats, which are the seats just behind the wall that separates cabins, and premium cabin seats are the most spacious.
Over the wing
Seats over the wing will typically offer the smoothest ride if there’s turbulence.
Make backup plans
Just in case something comes up, or baby comes a little earlier than expected, you can cancel your flight for a travel credit. You can also buy a refundable ticket, or if you need to change your trip, there are no change fees for most flights.
We also partner with AIG to offer trip insurance for our flights. Learn more about their plans and what they cover.
At the airport
Going through security can be stressful, but you don’t need to add worrying about your baby to the list. The TSA makes sure that all of their equipment is safe for you and your child.
On the plane
Flight attendants can help you stow your carry-on bags in the overhead bin if you’re not able to lift them yourself. You can also request a seatbelt extender if you need one. Be sure to buckle your seatbelt low under your belly and keep it fastened whenever you’re seated.
If you’re seated in an exit row you may have to help us during an emergency. This would require you to lift things. For more details, reference the FAQ section below.
Traveler pro tip
Traveler pro tip
Here are a few doctor recommended tips for staying healthy inflight while you’re pregnant:
- Keeping hydrated is key.
- Compression stockings will help with blood flow.
- Rotating and flexing your ankles while sitting in your seat will help with swelling.
- If you’re prone to morning or motion sickness, ask your doctor about nausea remedies.