Flying During Pregnancy: Safety & Risks at 11-15 Weeks

Question
Can my wife take a 13 hours flight if she is 11 weeks pregnant (and will be 15 weeks when she comes back)? What are the risks? What about the "radiation" airline companies talk about?
Thanks so much.

Answer
Hello Jara. The only "risky" time during pregnancy for flying is very late in the pregnancy. The changes in pressure inside the plane's cabin could "possibly" cause the amniotic membranes to pop if she was very close to due date- like a week or two before birth. At 11 and 15 weeks the baby and the membranes are very well protected and not subject to changes in air pressure. Millions of women fly without any consequences due to the "radiation". It is no where near the levels of an x-ray. She needs to avoid eating salty foods, drink lots of water and get up and walk around the cabin every 30-45 minutes to prevent swelling of the ankles and feet. Other than that- she will be fine- all the best- Cheri.