Hypoxia and Medicine

is it OK to drive to high altitudes while 7-8 weeks pregnant ?

Could anybody shed some light on this please? My husband and I are flying to maui this weekend we are planning to drive to high attitudes, maui highest altitude is 10,223 feet high, I am 6 weeks pregnant could this harm the fetus. Thanks koolrunning

Public Comments

1. it is fine to the fetus, just be aware that you might get light headed. and if you fall, that can hurt your unborn child. The main concern is your health.
2. This REALLY needs to be a question for your doctor -- too many things can affect our answers -- your health, background, etc, etc. Don't take a chance, call him.
3. not at all
4. You'll be fine, you will experience faster and more dramatic altitude shifts on the plane (even with pressurization, that is why you ears pop). Now near the end of your pregnancy it could cause labour, so if you aren't cleared to fly you aren't cleared to drive up mountains -'k?
5. No,it is during the last trimester that you probably wouldn't want to do that-or fly either for that matter.You are early enough along that is should not affect anything.If you start to feel you cannot breath well though-leave the high altitude though.
6. Nothing wrong with quickly calling your doctor to be sure!