PREGNANT STEWARDESS - SHOULD SHE FLY

Abstract

There is much pressure on the airlines to allow stewardesses to fly while pregnant, some in advanced stages of pregnancy. The normal changes to be expected with advancing pregnancy and those factors that could have an adverse effect on a pregnant stewardess and her fetus, such as hypoxia, trauma, abortion, the hazards of travel and flying itself are examined. Certain legal problems of unemployment and medical disability also are discussed. Travel alone offers no real danger to the pregnant stewardess in the 1st trimester of pregnancy. Because of the changing mechanics of her size, posture, and increasing unsteadiness, it would be wise to require a pregnant stewardess to cease flying at 13 wk, with an absolute prohibition on flying after the 20th wk.