Boarding a Pregnant Woman on a Plane: Southwest Airlines Policy and Regulations

Southwest Airlines strongly recommends that pregnant women and newborns consult a physician before flying. In addition, pregnant women, whose delivery is expected within the next four weeks, must provide written permission from the doctor for the flight. The medical examination must be issued at the earliest one week before the date of the flight. Also, it is not recommended to fly infants under seven days old.

Although Southwest recommends that women in the last four weeks of pregnancy, or the last eight weeks for multiple pregnancies, receive confirmation of possible air travel and recommendations from the treating physician before taking the aircraft, the company’s flight attendants are always ready to provide the necessary first aid, both on the ground and in the sky.

Southwest Airlines flight reservation: How is the purchase of a plane ticket for a pregnant woman carried out?

A woman who wishes to travel by plane with the American airline during her pregnancy must always make her seat reservation in advance (at least 48 hours before departure). This procedure must be carried out by telephone at 180.04.359.792.

Is it possible for pregnant women to fly on planes at any time?

The modern way of life, worldview and generally accepted canons do not force pregnant women to stop before any difficulty. Often no warnings and no risks can affect their choices and actions, but when it comes to the health or life of the unborn baby, it’s all serious. This is why issues related to the movement of women in post by air generate a lot of discussion and require in-depth reflection.

When is the safest time of pregnancy to travel by plane?

Everyone knows that each period of pregnancy is special in its own way, therefore, when traveling and buying plane tickets, it is necessary to take into account not only the general condition, but the specific trimester of pregnancy.

– First trimester: 1-13 weeks

During this period, it is better to refrain from traveling. If there is an urgent need for a flight, issue air tickets for an aircraft with a departure date corresponding to the 7th or 8th week of pregnancy, which are considered the safest for air travel during the first trimester.

– Second trimester: 14-27 weeks

This period is considered the most favorable for air travel for expectant mothers and babies. However, some experts advise against buying tickets for flights lasting 18-22 weeks, arguing that during this period there is a risk of late miscarriage. But if the pregnancy proceeds without any complications, the woman feels fine, and there is no risk to the fetus – do not hesitate to issue a plane ticket and go on a long-awaited vacation.

– Third trimester: 28-40 weeks

This period requires a lot of care and attention when traveling. Most airlines will only allow you to board a plane if you have a certificate from your doctor, and some carriers may also require a document from the airline’s medical center. In addition, in most cases, passengers will be required to complete and sign a document stating that the airline is not responsible for any adverse consequences.

In what situations is it better for a woman in a position to abstain from stealing?

To protect yourself and your future baby, you should consult your personal physician before issuing airline tickets. There are a number of contraindications to flying during pregnancy, even if the woman feels well, such as anemia, hypertension, severe toxicosis, …

How to travel comfortably by plane during pregnancy?

If you decide to fly with Southwest Airlines, the doctor has agreed to it, and you have already booked plane tickets, it’s time to start planning the trip. There are a number of recommendations that will help future mothers feel comfortable during air travel and minimize the risk of possible complications:

– Book a business class flight: In business class, there are wider seats and an increased distance between them. If you have booked an economy class ticket anyway, choose a front row seat (enough legroom) or, in extreme cases, an aisle seat;

– To reduce the risk of vascular complications, wear compression stockings on the plane;

– Fasten the seat belts under the belly;

– Take an orthopedic neck and back pillow;

– Tilt the seat back to reduce pressure on your back periodically walk around the cabin of the liner to avoid swelling of the legs;

– Drink plenty of fluids – around 500ml per hour, and avoid soft drinks and coffee.