Travel to high altitude during pregnancy: frequently asked questions and recommendations for clinicians.
The effects of altitude on pregnancy have been extensively studied in high altitude residents, but there is a lack of knowledge concerning the pregnant altitude visitor. Exposure to hypoxia results in physiologic responses which act to preserve maternal and fetal oxygenation. However, these reactions are limited and maternal/fetal complications may be observed, especially in association with exercise. Certain pre-existing conditions or risk factors of hypertension/preeclampsia and/or fetal growth restriction are contra-indications for traveling to high altitude, especially after 20 weeks. The acclimatization process has to be respected to avoid acute mountain sickness without taking drugs, and at least a few days of acclimatization are required before exercising.
Centre Pluridisciplinaire de Diagnostic Prénatal, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, France. dominiquedidi@wanadoo.fr
Dominique
D
Jean
Lorna G
LG
Moore
D000064:Acclimatization; D000531:Altitude; D000532:Altitude Sickness / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D000860:Hypoxia / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology*; D011247:Pregnancy / Q000502:physiology; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000503:physiopathology*; D011264:Pregnancy Trimesters; D014195:Travel