The moment a pregnant woman decides to travel – whether for business or pleasure – several issues need to be considered carefully before her departure. Most chief among these is that due to the events of September 11, 2001, security in airports is rigid for everyone, including those who are with child. While pregnant women might have sensitive issues, they are not exempt from these airport polices and should keep that in mind while traveling by air.

Flying on your own while pregnant is possible but no necessarily comfortable or easy. Different airlines have different rules in place regarding pregnant women that must be abided by. Factors that can influence the policies of these airlines companies include things like how far along the pregnancy is, whether the mother is expecting to give birth to a single baby or multiples, and the general health and risk factors of specific pregnant women. If you are planning to take a trip during your pregnancy, it is often in your best interest to choose cruises and other types of transportation other than by air because of various restrictions for pregnant women.

Pregnant air travelers in America are required to present a medical certificate if flying within four weeks of the due date. This rule is applicable for healthy, normal and uncomplicated pregnancies. Different policies apply for those who have issues in their pregnancies. For flights which are fewer than five hours, air travel is not permitted one week after giving birth as well as one week before the due date. This restriction can, however, be lifted if the woman can present a valid medical certificate. For those who are planning on international travel, airlines within the U.S. discourage travel within one month of the due date unless the pregnant woman is examined and has a valid medical certificate that is issued within two days of departure, which must state that the woman is fit to travel over major bodies of water.

For British Airways, travel restrictions for pregnant women are only in place if they are at or past the thirty-sixth week of gestation, provided they are to give birth to a single baby. In cases where the mother is expecting twins, British Airways’ restrictions start in the thirty-second week. A medical certificate is required if the mother is over her seventh month of pregnancy, provided that the pregnancy is free from any complications and the pregnant woman is otherwise fit to travel.

If you are flying to Asia, most major airlines companies require pregnant women to be free of complications. There are no restrictions until the pregnant woman reaches her thirty-second week. However, if one is traveling past her thirty-fifth week, a medical certificate that allows the pregnant woman to travel is required.