[bjorker]

My aunt is in a bad way. She's been in the hospital with pneumonia and a host of other issues for awhile now, and while she is stable, the drs are doubtful she's going to ever get out of that hospital. As for her mortality, I really don't know. I live in the Seattle area and she lives in the Reno area. My mom knows more of the details first-hand and is feeling that it is important to go see her asap, so she is planning a trip down for the weekend of 5/22. I will be 34.5 weeks then, and am about a day away from booking my ticket to go see her with my mom. The flight is a little over 2 hours, and I'll be leaving dd at home.<br><br>
Am I nuts? I feel like I'll be okay. dd was born slightly after her due date, my pregnancy has been completely normal, I haven't had any contractions other than a few bh here and there... I just don't feel like it's a big deal. Plus I feel it's important to go, I don't know when I'll have another chance, and it's only Friday through Sunday.<br><br>
Oh, and we're flying Alaska, which has no restrictions for pregnant women, though I'll get a note from my midwife just in case. This has come up fast enough that I haven't yet asked my midwives what they think, but knowing them I doubt that they'd have much to say.<br>
Thoughts? I doubt I could be talked out of it at this point (unless my body does something to make me think twice), but I am curious about the opinions of others on this one.

 

[HeatherB]

I'd be okay with it, given the circumstances, and assuming you can't drive instead. Though, driving would be much more uncomfortable.<br><br>
I've flown around 30-32 weeks and thought nothing of it. 35 is a good bit closer, but if your care provider isn't concerned, I wouldn't be. And, if it's your last chance to see a family member, I'd consider it worth the risk.

 

[lifeguard]

I'd do it. I flew at 31 weeks internationally with no problems.

 

[starkyld]

I would do it too. It would make me nervous, but I'd absolutely go.

 

[evjolin]

i think you are fine. you won't be comfortable, but you will be fine! sorry to hear about your aunt, hugs!

 

[MaerynPearl]

most airlines are comfortable with you flying up to 36 weeks<br><br>
I would be comfortable with it at 34.5 as long as my doctor/midwife checks me first... of course they cant usually tell you are about to go into preterm labor... but it is just a bit more comforting to have your doctor (or midwife) say that you are fit to fly yet.<br><br>
The latest I plan on flying is 28 weeks but thats because that is our move. I plan on staying home after that lol.

 

[RedOakMomma]

I would do it, but take precautions during the flight to keep comfortable, hydrated.<br><br>
My aunt passed away when I was technically too pregnant to fly/travel. I regret not seeing her one last time. I should have. <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/greensad.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="greensad">

 

[louis]

In the circumstances described, I would absolutely go. I would make sure to get an aisle seat and get up and walk around the cabin when you can.<br><br>
Sorry to hear about your aunt. I hope your visit goes well.

 

[HeatherB]

Yes, aisle seat! I flew at 8-9 wks and almost ended up in a window seat. I was VERY grateful to get an aisle. You may even be able to call 24 hours ahead and request a bulkhead seat for more legroom. Being able to stretch/flex your legs is important even if you can't get up to walk. Also, you can take an empty water bottle (I took an insulated Klean Kanteen), and fill it up past security. Coffee shops should do it for you. Then get refills on the plane.

 

[virgo]

I'm sorry to hear about your aunt. I would absolutely go but I would research hospitals in the area (to see which one would best accomodate your birth plan) so that in the unlikely event you went into labor you would already know where you wanted to go.

 

[welsh]

So sorry to hear about your Aunt <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/greensad.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="greensad"><br>
I would go but take all the precautions already discussed; water, move around etc. It's a short flight, you'll be fine.

 

[Ellen Griswold]

I think everyone has given you some great advice. You also might consider asking for a copy of your records and bringing them along.

 

[rparker]

I would totally do a 2 hour domestic flight in your circumstances. I agree with PPs that you should research Reno birth options "just in case" though.

 

[CoBabyMaker]

I would feel comfortable with a short flight under the conditions you mentioned. I am just outside the Reno area, feel free to PM me if you would like info on area women's care, I'd be happy to help if I can.