Do you recommend wearing compression stockings for a 2-3 hour plane trip? I'll be 18 weeks pregnant. It's my first time on a plane while pregnant.

Answers from doctors (6)


Modern Vein & Laser Center

Published on Jan 22, 2017

Yes it is advised to do so.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/8244_1479160468.jpg
Answered by Modern Vein & Laser Center

Yes it is advised to do so.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Jan 20, 2017

It is probably not necessary, but won't hurt.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/464_1408044069.jpg
Answered by Advanced Vein Center

It is probably not necessary, but won't hurt.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Jan 20, 2017

Yes we definitely recommend compression for flying when pregnant. Actually we recommend compression during the entire pregnancy as there is an increased incidence of blood clotting. It will also compress veins which naturally become dilated due to pregnancy hormones. In addition to hose, we recommend drinking lots of fluids and getting up and walking. It this isn't possible then using the leg muscles with stretches. Airline magazines have exercises in the back. Avoid constrictive clothing on the body (tight jeans etc). 15-20 mmHg pressure hose in a knee length may be adequate but I often put my pregnant patient into 20-30 mmHg. Ensure that they are correctly measured and fitted and of good quality. Hose from Walmart etc should be avoided.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/623_1499902138.jpg
Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Yes we definitely recommend compression for flying when pregnant. Actually we recommend compression during the entire pregnancy as there is an increased incidence of blood clotting. It will also compress veins which naturally become dilated due to pregnancy hormones. In addition to hose, we recommend drinking lots of fluids and getting up and walking. It this isn't possible then using the leg muscles with stretches. Airline magazines have exercises in the back. Avoid constrictive clothing on the body (tight jeans etc). 15-20 mmHg pressure hose in a knee length may be adequate but I often put my pregnant patient into 20-30 mmHg. Ensure that they are correctly measured and fitted and of good quality. Hose from Walmart etc should be avoided.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana

Published on Jan 20, 2017

Yes. Wearing compression stockings will help reduce leg swelling and risk of deep vein thrombosis. Pregnancy increases the risk of DVT due to increase weight and abdominal pressure, as well as hormonal changes.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1196_1551115459.jpg
Answered by Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana

Yes. Wearing compression stockings will help reduce leg swelling and risk of deep vein thrombosis. Pregnancy increases the risk of DVT due to increase weight and abdominal pressure, as well as hormonal changes.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Jan 20, 2017

I would recommend wearing knee length support hose 20-30mmHg on any plane ride over 2 hours, whether you are pregnant or not.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1053_1499982262.jpg
Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

I would recommend wearing knee length support hose 20-30mmHg on any plane ride over 2 hours, whether you are pregnant or not.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Jan 20, 2017

It's a good idea.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/922_1408044082.jpg
Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

It's a good idea.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Related Questions for Compression Stockings

Compression Stockings -7 answers
And should you be physically active while wearing the crompression socks?
See More
Compression Stockings -15 answers
I am 21 weeks pregnant and my whole leg and feet really hurt. I only have knee-length compression hose. Can I sleep with them on?
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
How big of a size do compression stockings come in?
See More
Compression Stockings -10 answers
I got knee surgery and have been wearin the socks for 3 weeks with some rests a day. I walk on my leg so blood circulates and crutches help me in public. Is it safe to not wear the stockings at all anymore? I just really don't want a blood clot.
See More
Compression Stockings -12 answers
I wear compression stockings for varicose veins during my pregnancy. They ease the pain and tiredness, but my legs get so itchy sometimes - especially after I take my stockings off. What can i do to prevent the itchiness and are they too tight?
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
I was wondering if someone who already has a clot wore compression stockings, would it be safe? Might this dislodge the clot? I only just learned about compression stockings and I'm not sure of these details.
See More
Compression Stockings -7 answers
I had the procedure this morning and wore the compression stockings all day but I can't remember if the Dr. said to wear them when I sleep?
See More
Compression Stockings -11 answers
Do you recommend wearing compression stockings on long flights? I have two flights: one 8 hours with a break of 12 hours and continuing another 12 hours after. I have store bought knee highs and thigh highs. Any disadvantages?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
The knee highs are so much more comfortable. Are they effective enough?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works
Compression Stockings -9 answers
I'm wondering if the pressure from compression stockings can harm the fetus?
See More
Compression Stockings -6 answers
If I have problems with just one leg, can I wear one compression knee high or should I wear both?
See More
Compression Stockings -4 answers
How long after starting to wear these, will I see results?My calve has improved, but the ankle is still huge and the foot quite puffy.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
I presently suffer from a sciatica for the 1st time. Lots of pain in my calf area and particularly in one pinpoint spot in the calf along with hip/groin pain.I wonder if stockings will help my calf pain and is it safe at 20/30 compression?Thank you
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
I am wearing compression stockings and was wondering how long should I wear them? Six and a half weeks after my C-section, I am still not mobile much.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
What are the differences? Is it worth the additional cost?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
It seems like tight clothes wouldn't benefit circulation.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
My vascular surgeon did an ultrasound and prescribed endovenous laser ablation. She also suggested that I wear compression stockings after the procedure. However, due to severe psoriasis and eczema on my feet, I cannot wear full-coverage stockings that cover them. They must always be in wet dressings, but cannot be fully covered. Would footless compression stockings be just as effective as full-coverage hose following the procedure?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
I would like "save" my legs and buy compression stockings. I dont have any other medical problems that would require me to use the stockings other that I am a nurse and am on my feet a lot. What level of comrpession would you recommend I start with?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works

Related Articles

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR