Ten Tips for Flying While Pregnant by Daniel Scott

1.    If flying long distances (to Europe for instance) give your body time to recover with a stopover or two.

2.    Always have relevant medical documents and certificates with you at check-in (to avoid being refused carriage) and in-flight.  Keep travel insurance details handy too.

3.    If possible book Business class seats on flights over seven hours, to give you and your growing baby extra space and to allow you to lie down.

4.    If traveling in Economy, request or reserve a bulkhead or aisle seat close to toilets.

5.    Ask airline staff for priority boarding, especially on flights with unassigned seating, to avoid standing for long periods in queues and jostling on board.

6.    Avoid taking jet-lag medication without consulting your GP. Even herbal remedies like Melatonin may not be safe during pregnancy.

7.    Drink plenty of water in-flight and steer clear of caffeine and alcohol.

8.    Wear below-knee compression stockings to combat increased risk of DVT and varicose veins.

9.    Do in-flight stretches and walk around the cabin as much as possible.

10.    Avoid putting seat belts directly over the abdomen.  Rest them across the thighs in case of sudden turbulence.