Pregnancy has never stopped anyone from travelling. However, when you are considering flying while pregnant certain precautions must be taken. Whether you are flying from Hong Kong to Bali or to a more remote getaway location such as London for your next holidays or babymoon, you should consider a few things before booking your flight tickets.
First things first, no matter how far along you are in your pregnancy it is always best to check with your doctor. A previous successful experience travelling while pregnant does not mean that you should just dive in and go ahead as things might be different this time. Remember: your body changes and every pregnancy is different! So, checking with your doctor first can do no harm. Should your doctor not be available right before you go on holidays, you can visit one of the many excellent public or private hospitals in Hong Kong.
Also, keep in mind that most airlines have strict regulations when it comes to allowing a pregnant woman on one of their flights. Generally, it depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy. Usually, you can travel up to 32 or 36 weeks depending on your antecedents and the type of pregnancy – up to 32 weeks in the case of uncomplicated multiple pregnancies and up to 36 weeks for uncomplicated single pregnancies in the case of Cathay Pacific. Most airlines will allow you to fly without any doctor’s notice up until the 28th week. Between 28-36 weeks, most airlines will require that you provide a doctor’s notice stating the stage of your pregnancy and that you are fit to fly. Some airlines have no regulations but bear in mind that in such cases you fly at your own risk. As rules differ between airlines make sure to always check their policy before booking your flight ticket!
No matter how much you plan, you can never anticipate everything and risks will still exist. Taking up an insurance cover is highly recommended. If you already have a maternity cover, make sure to ask you insurance provider whether it covers you as well as your baby while traveling and/or on holidays. Make sure to weigh your options and have a look at travel insurances offered either by your usual insurance provider or by travel insurance providers.
Before leaving Hong Kong, make sure to find out more about the place you are visiting and especially on how to quickly get medical attention should that be necessary at some point. The more you plan beforehand the less likely you are to be taken by surprise and the more likely you are to ensure that nothing will spoil your long-awaited and well-deserved break at the last minute.
