3. COSMIC RADIATION
Cosmic ionising radiation (or cosmic radiation) comes from outer space. A very small amount of this radiation reaches Earth, but at flight altitudes passengers are exposed to higher levels. In a normal situation, the level of exposure on a return trans-Atlantic flight is comparable to the same amount of exposure as when you have a chest X-ray. As with X-rays, radiation can cause damage to genetic material inside a cell. However, there is no evidence that a trans-Atlantic flight increases the risk of abnormalities. To be on the safe side, avoiding frequent air travel when pregnant is recommended.
4. INCREASED RISK OF THROMBOSIS
Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potentially life-threatening disorder in which blood clots can form in the deep veins of the body, particularly the legs. In an aircraft, dehydration caused by the dry air may thicken your blood. In addition, the relative immobility of sitting in a confined space for a long period can cause blood to collect in your legs. If you are pregnant you already run a greater risk of developing thrombosis and flying will increase this risk.
There are a few things you can do to prevent or reduce the risk of thrombosis:
- during long flights, walk around the cabin every 15 to 30 minutes;
- do simple stretching exercises while you are seated;
- only sleep for short periods — up to 30 minutes at a time;
- move around after every nap;
- drink plenty of water;
- avoid alcohol and caffeine (which you will hopefully be doing anyway); and
- wear compression stockings.
All in all, with a little extra preparation, the same thing applies as always: Sit back, relax and enjoy your flight.
