With globalization, air travel is becoming increasingly commercialized. Those women who are pregnant and those who intend to become pregnant need to consider whether it is safe to fly long distances. This includes: exposure to cosmic radiation, decreased arterial oxygen pressure, activity limitations, and unpredictable medical and obstetric emergencies during flight. Radiation Exposure The annual exposure threshold dose for the average person is 1 mSv, and for occupational exposure is 5 mSv. A rough estimate is that at least 200 hours of flight will reach the annual dose threshold for the average person. At relatively low altitudes, the atmosphere provides more radiation protection and the exposure received from short flights is relatively low compared to long flights, which require relatively high flight altitudes. Fetal and maternal hypoxia The increased pressure in the cabin causes a decrease in heart rhythm, increased blood pressure, and a significant decrease in aerobic metabolism. These changes lead to a decrease in partial pressure of oxygen, which can affect a problematic pregnancy. Air travel is not recommended for pregnant women with medical or obstetric complications that can be exacerbated by lack of oxygen. If you must travel, supplemental oxygen should be recommended when traveling by air. Venous embolism There may be an association between long distance air travel and deep vein embolism. When recommending precautions, increased leg mobility is recommended, as well as the use of compression stockings. Preterm birth There is no evidence that air travel per se increases the risk of preterm birth. However, it is recommended that women with evidence of preterm labor or an increased risk of preterm labor should avoid traveling long distances by air, as proper medical facilities are not always available at the end of the trip. Obstetric emergencies When obstetric emergencies occur, they can sometimes be fatal for both mother and child. Pregnant women need to understand that there is no guarantee that qualified medical personnel will be available on the flight and that medical facilities are relatively limited. Seat belts Airline seats use the same seat belts as cars. Since air turbulence cannot be predicted and the potential for trauma is not insignificant, it is recommended that pregnant women consistently use seat belts while seated.