Summer is a time of holidays, parties, and relaxation, so it is a joyful time for most of us. But it is also a time of high temperatures that may cause pregnant women quite a few headaches. Do not worry, I know being pregnant in the summer is no walk in the park. Here are the best summer pregnancy tips that will not only help you survive the hot summer months but will also make your summer pregnancy pleasant again!
Ways to survive a summer pregnancy!
Every pregnancy is unique, regardless of the time of year. Meaning all pregnant women do not face the same challenges during the summer months. Whether you are pregnant in winter or summer – you may be able to survive the pregnancy without any problems, but it can also be hard for you.
High temperatures (especially during a heatwave) cause some additional challenges during pregnancy. Not only is it hot outside, but pregnant women already feel hotter due to the hormone progesterone. (Progesterone raises body temperature.)
Staying in a climatized room is, of course, a great idea, but other tricks may help pregnant women survive the summer too. So, keep reading or jump to summer pregnancy tips right away.
Why is a summer pregnancy hard to bear?
High temperatures are hard to tolerate by all of us, let alone for a pregnant woman. As I said, they already feel hotter than most of us, and they also overheat more easily. Furthermore, there are other problems they have to deal with. For example, swollen ankles are a common problem that high temperatures only exacerbate.
Pregnant women are also more prone to dehydration. Dehydration can be problematic for both highly pregnant women and those in the first trimester when morning sickness is most intense.
Of course, we must not forget the psychological state of a pregnant woman. Yes, heat and humidity take their toll on women physically, but being constantly in discomfort can contribute to mood swings too.
The good news is that there are things you can do to minimize your discomfort and survive your summer pregnancy more pleasantly.
Pregnant women must be careful during the summer months. High temperatures and related problems can be dangerous for both expectant mothers and their babies. So, it is important to recognize signs of heat exhaustion and other issues that could be a hazard to them and their baby.
Above all, you must listen to your body and give it what it needs most. Are you thirsty? Drink. Are your legs tired? Sit or, even better, lie down and elevate them.
Even when you feel like you’ve been resting for too long, but somehow you still don’t feel rested enough, treat yourself to an extra hour of lying on the couch! Your well-being comes first at this time!
Summer pregnancy tips on surviving during hot months
With a few simple tricks, you can make summer days much more manageable, even when the heat is unbearable.
Tips for pregnant women in summer:
1. Drink enough water!
You have to stay hydrated! The first and most important thing in the summer months is drinking enough fluids, especially if you are pregnant! If you notice swelling, drink a glass of water immediately!
You should drink about eight to ten glasses of water per day and even more if you are exercising. If you are going to spend time outside, you can also drink low-sugar electrolyte fluids. Just make sure they are not sweetened with harmful artificial sweeteners or contain other bad additives.
2. Essential products for leaving your home:
When you leave your home, do not forget to take things, such as moisturizing wipes or a bottle of cold water.
Moisturizing wipes will, for instance, refresh your overheated skin. Water will prevent dehydration and keeps you cool. It is best to choose a thermos so that the liquid does not heat up. You can also take a spray bottle with you and spritz yourself with water to cool down your body temperature.
3. Avoid direct sunlight & harmful UV rays!
During the hottest and sunniest part of the day, it is advisable to stay indoors. If you are pregnant, try to go outside early in the morning or after sunset.
Also, stay in the shade as much as possible. For example, when riding a bus, it is best to sit in a seat that is not exposed to direct sunlight but has enough air supply.
No matter when you are outside, always use sunscreen and reapply it after swimming or sweating. It is also very important to choose a sunscreen that is safe during pregnancy! You should choose a mineral sunscreen that is free from questionable ingredients.
RELATED: Best Pregnancy-Safe Sunscreens
4. Air condition:
Stay in air-conditioned rooms. If you have the opportunity, make sure that, at least in the hottest part of the day, you stay in an environment where you can cool down enough if necessary.
5. Find innovative ways to cool your body:
A cold shower or a swim in the home pool are great ways to beat the summer heat, but they’re not the only ones. You can use cold compresses from towels, thermophores, or water bottles that you have cooled down in the freezer.
A cold towel around your neck is very efficient and enjoyable!
These are great alternatives for those who do not have access to air-conditioned rooms in the hottest part of the day.
6. Dress for the heat:
Try to avoid synthetic materials that will make you even hotter. Lightweight, loose, and breathable cotton clothing is indispensable in summer. Also, use a summer hat to reduce sun exposure.
7. Make healthy food choices:
Appetites commonly decrease during heat. But you must eat something, so you can try making yourself a smoothie. It is healthy and refreshing!
Pregnant women should also avoid foods that can quickly spoil in the heat. Potato salad, mayonnaise salad dressings, and other mayonnaise-based foods are particularly prone to rapid spoilage.
8. Limit exercises and other outdoor activities:
Except for swimming, which is a great way to exercise and keep your body cool, rather work out inside during the summer. Pregnant women will benefit the most from a light workout in a climatize gym.
9. Nap:
Try to get a nap for at least 30 minutes. The best time for taking a nap is in the hottest part of the day. This way, you will rest and not be exposed to the hot sun.
RELATED: How To Safely Enjoy Sunbathing While Pregnant?
Does a summer pregnancy have any benefits?
Of course! Every season has its advantages, and summer is no exception. Don’t be afraid of summer pregnancy! Many mothers have a very pleasant experience with it!
On hot summer days, pregnant women can enjoy things that the colder autumn, winter, and spring temperatures do not allow.
Reasons it is great to be pregnant in the summer:
1. Light summer clothes:
Light and loosen summer clothes are very comfortable and cozy. The fact that they didn’t have to dress multi-layered is a favorite part of a summer pregnancy for many moms. A simple dress and comfortable sandals are all we need in the summer!
2. Vacations:
Vacations are great relaxation for young families before a new family member joins them. Of course, you can go on holiday at any time of the year, but the most varied options are available to you during the summer months.
3. Fresh fruits and veggies:
Fresh vegetables and fruits are the best! Access to fresh products is much easier, during the summer. What’s better than fresh tomatoes from the home garden? Yum.