Here are some general tips for travelling while pregnant and flying while pregnant but they in no way constitute medical advice and you should always seek medical advice on any travel matters while pregnant.

Travelling while pregnant raises a number of medical issues. You will need to think about whether it is safe to travel, are there extra precautions to be taken, are activities such as diving or skiing going to be limited and about any special immunisations that are needed. In the case of vaccines and precautions against diseases such as malaria take specialist advice before you plan your trip as there are high risks that need to be carefully considered. Before you go make sure that you will have ready access to good medical facilities and importantly english speaking doctors.

The good news is that generally it is safe to fly while pregnant and women who are having uncomplicated pregnancies can travel. Every pregnancy is different though and there can however be a heightened risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). You should check with your doctor before making plans and before travelling.

It is best not to fly while pregnant before 12 weeks or after 28 weeks. Pregnancy is divided into three stages. Nausea and lethargy can be common in the first stage which can be exacerbated by travelling. The risks of miscarriage are also increased in this stage. The second stage is usually a time when you are in very good health and this may be the best time. In the third stage you will probably get tired more easily.

After 28 weeks when the risk of going into labour increases airlines will require a letter from your GP stating that you are fit to travel and confirming your estimated due date. We would recommend having a letter with you anyway as soon as you start to show significantly just in case. Each airline has its own policy so always check with them to see that you may still fly. Scheduled airlines generally allow you to fly up to around 34 weeks but all of these can be reduced if you are having twins or have a potential for a complicated birth.

If you are going on a package holiday check with the holiday company what the regulations are as the airline may not be clear. Ferry operators have similar rules to the airlines (but always check before you travel). Most train or bus companies do not have restrictions but again you should check.

Try to get a seat with some extra space if you can such as a bulkhead seat. At check in arrive early and where it is a possibility explain that you are pregnant and ask for an upgrade (it may be your last as upgrades with kids are like hens teeth) or for a spare seat to be next to you.

Check that you are covered by your holiday insurance to fly while pregnant as many insurers stipulate that they will not provide cover if the pregnant woman does not have at least eight weeks to go before her due date on the day she returns from holiday (some are even lower at 27 or 28 weeks).

While you are flying wear DVT socks if approved by your GP and shoes with adjustable straps in case your feet swell. Make sure you take in lots of liquids but be aware that there is pressure on the balder during pregnancy so you will have to visit the bathroom quite a lot. Get up and walk around the cabin every two hours or so. Avoid tea and coffee which may increase the risk of DVT and take lots of snacks.

When you arrive at your destination obtain a list of the locations of local hospitals and the local English speaking GP from your accommodation provider, the local embassy or the tourist board. Have with you a copy of your medical notes and your insurance policy. Your skin may react differently while you are pregnant and can be more sensitive during pregnancy so wear a higher factor of sunscreen than you usually need.

After all of that relax and have a healthy and happy holiday.

You will find lots of family friendly travel tips and advice in our research and advice section to help you book the right family holiday. Check out also the experiences of other parents and travellers in our parents forum and add your own experiences as we are a great believer in real parent's experiences as the best measure of whether somewhere will suit you for your family holiday.

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