How To Manage The Hot Summer Weather During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a huge milestone in every woman’s life. As pregnant women, they will be bringing new life into the world. However, carrying a child can be a very daunting and stressful task as a mother-to-be. They need to do everything to make sure their little one is comfortable and well taken care of. But, more often than not, they forget that they need to feel comfortable and be taken care of.

This reality is more challenging during the summer. Pregnant people tend to feel warmer no matter the season thanks to physical changes during pregnancy, like hormonal fluctuations and increased blood volume and cardiovascular output. Adelaide Nardone, MD, an ob-gyn in Providence, Rhode Island, and medical advisor to the Vagisil Women's Health Center, explains that when you're pregnant, your body temperature is already a bit higher than normal, so added heat from the outside temperature is bound to make you feel uncomfortable. So, if you are pregnant in the summertime, you may find it difficult cool off. But getting too hot during pregnancy can quickly turn to overheating, which can be a serious health risk to you and your baby.

As a result, they may become dehydrated a little more quickly or maybe more likely to show symptoms of dehydration than they would be if they weren't pregnant. Signs of dehydration can include dizziness or lightheadedness, which can be risky for pregnant women if these symptoms cause them to fall.

With summer already upon us, we will need to learn how to properly manage the summer heat. Learning how to cool down during these times will be a great help for pregnant women. With a few simple tips, you can make your summer for you and your little one cooler and safe. Here is a guide you can follow to manage the hot summer weather during pregnancy.

1. Stay hydrated

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), during pregnancy, you should drink 8 to 12 cups of water every day as your body needs extra fluids to produce extra blood and amniotic fluid. Being able to intake a good amount of water will keep all your internal systems running well and help your body remove waste. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to reach for a drink but keep fluid intake up and steer clear of caffeine, making you feel more dehydrated.

2. Keep out of the sun

Many pregnant women find their skin is more sensitive during pregnancy, so it’s advisable to be extra cautious if you have to be outside in the sun for extended periods. There will be a more substantial possibility for melasma and other kinds of hyperpigmentation, which can become more pronounced when exposed to the sun. It is vital to have a reliable and high-quality sunscreen containing at least SPF 30 to protect yourself from the scorching sun.

3. Refreshment for your body

When it comes to snacking in the heat, popsicles and ice cream are usually at the top of everyone’s list. But why not keep other items in the freezer, such as yogurt and fruits. Healthy frozen options and cooling summer foods will keep your energy levels up and, more importantly, your temperature down.

Eating “cooling” foods like salads and vegetables grown above ground like peas and beans or fruit with a high water content such as watermelon or cucumber will have a great cooling effect on your temperature. You should also avoid drinking hot drinks and spicy food before going to bed as it can increase your body temperature, making you feel warm and uncomfortable when going to sleep.

4. Relax and don’t overexert yourself

Don’t try to tackle every task like you used to. You should make a conscious effort to slow down and not be afraid to ask for help. Just take your time and don’t rush, and when possible have a nap, you’ll be grateful for that extra sleep once the baby comes. When it comes to exercise, you do not need to overwork yourselves in the gym, especially on a hot day, doing light exercises such as yoga will also make you sweat without causing stress to your baby bump. Swimming is also a great way to help keep you in shape while staying cool in the hot weather.

5. Cool down your body

It is highly unlikely we can keep our hands under a cold tap all day, but for those unbearable moments during the hot summer, you can simply place your wrists under cold running water for a bit of time. This will help cool your pulse points immediately. You can also hold an ice pack or a wet cloth on your forehead and the back of your neck to help make your entire body feel cooler.

6. Wear loose and comfortable clothing

Wearing the right clothes during pregnancy is not a luxury but a necessity especially during the summer as it will keep you comfortable as you grow. It is ideal for wearing lightweight fabrics such as cotton, modal, or even bamboo which are loose and breathable materials. They help absorb sweat and keep you cool as well as being skin-friendly to help prevent skin rashes. You need to avoid or swap out any restrictive clothing especially those that use synthetics as they can cause you to sweat excessively. This will definitely help keep you comfortable and lead to a calmer and happier you, and a happier you means a happier baby.

Pregnancy is not just about your baby; it is about you as well. The first step of taking care of your baby is making sure you take care of yourself. Despite it being challenging, let us ensure that the summer season will be a magical time for you and your baby. Remember to always listen to your body and stay comfortable. Stay safe and stay cool mommies! — (MyPharma)