7 Tips For Pregnant Women In Summer
It is quite normal for your body temperature to rise during pregnancy. During the hot season, the heat can become quite irritating. However, there are some practical tips for pregnant women in the summer to help cope with pregnancy better and enjoy it even more.
Useful and practical tips for pregnant women in the summer
1. Always stay hydrated
It is important to drink more water than usual during the summer months when you are pregnant. The recommended intake of water is more than 8 glasses of water per day. It is also a good idea to supplement the water with fruit.
- Fruit juices and smoothies are very refreshing.
- You can also choose to eat pieces of fruit during the meal, or as a snack.
- Lemon, orange and grapefruit juices are also good. Take advantage of seasonal fruits such as peaches, watermelons, and strawberries.
Fruits contain a lot of water and this helps prevent fluid retention and swelling. They also provide vitamins, nutrients and fiber that the woman’s body needs during pregnancy.
2. Light clothes and suitable shoes for pregnant women in summer
Use light clothing and breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen. By doing this, you minimize sweat stains and protect yourself from heat sources just below the chest area and on the stomach. Clothes to avoid are synthetic fabrics that stick to your skin and increase the feeling of warmth.
It is also advisable that you choose comfortable shoes, which can be slightly larger than your usual size, to avoid undue pressure on your feet and ankles. These should not be too high or too low to avoid back and leg pain.
3. Stay indoors during the hottest hours and get plenty of rest
Between 12 and 5 in the afternoon, make sure you are in a cool and ventilated place, as the heat in the middle of the day can be stifling. It is the best time of the day to rest and relax indoors.
In the evening, bubble baths and massages with cold gels are a very refreshing option, which will help you rest and sleep well at night.
4. Keep working out
Moderate exercise is very important for pregnant women in the summer. The main reason is that physical activity prevents many adverse conditions and prepares you well for the moment of birth.
It’s important for your body to be strong and healthy during the summer months, especially if your due date is very near.
5. Take care of your skin during pregnancy
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause skin sensitivity, making it more sensitive to sun exposure. Skin changes such as dark spots on the face and neck may occur.
That is why it is essential to use a broad spectrum sunscreen and moisturize the skin on a daily basis. Also, as we said before, you should not expose yourself to the sun during the middle of the day.
6. Cool off on the beach or in the pool
Pregnant women in the summer can make good use of the beach, if you live near a beach. The beach is ideal for walking along the coast and taking a dip in safe areas, not where it gets deep very quickly, or when there are big waves.
Swimming pools are also great for pregnant women. Swimming during pregnancy is highly recommended. It will help you:
- to feel refreshed
- to get exercise
- rest the weight of your belly in the water.
However, you are not allowed to dive into the pool and you must ensure that you do not slip when walking along the edge of the pool.
Always take the necessary precautions against the sun and heat and take advantage of every moment you can to spend refreshing times by the water, be it at the beach or by the pool.
7. Healthy and Light Meals for Pregnant Women in Summer
During the summer months it is recommended to eat light meals, such as:
- cold soups
- vegetables
- salads
- fresh fruit.
- Fresh dairy products, pasta salads, and rice and tomato juice are also recommended.
If you don’t have a problem with high sugar levels, treat yourself to an ice cream or slush drink every now and then. On the other hand, avoid very hot, heavy fatty meals as they can cause digestive problems, heartburn or indigestion.
Your summer pregnancy doesn’t have to be a traumatic time. By following our tips for pregnant women in the summer, you can avoid discomfort and not adversely affect the development of your future baby.