Pregnancy comfort during the summer
Summers are hot and uncomfortable, they are that way for just about everyone, but for someone who is pregnant, summer can be fairly torturous. The heat combined with the other discomforts of pregnancy can make life hard. So, here are some great tips to help you stay cool and comfortable during the summer if you are pregnant:
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- First thing you need to do is realize that certain times of the day are going to be more uncomfortable for you than other times of the day. So with this in mind, it is smart to run errands, go for walks, and do outdoor tasks in the morning or evening when it's cooler. That way you avoid the high heat.
- During the summer, depending on where you live, days can be really hot. On the days that get to be over 90 degrees, it is best to stay indoors, in the shade, or in air conditioning. If you can help it, limit your activity on those days, and try to only go places with climate control.
- Listen to the local weather forecast for air quality warnings detailing conditions that might make it particularly uncomfortable or difficult to breathe on certain days. If there are warnings, then stay in.
- Dressing right can go a long way toward helping you feel comfortable during the summer. Pregnancy may mean you have a limited wardrobe, but whenever possible wear light-colored cotton clothing that reflects sunlight. Stay out of dark colors. The absorb the heat, and will make you feel hotter.
- Stick to wearing natural fabrics to breath and allow moisture from your skin to evaporate.
- Make hydration a huge priority. Go to a local gas station and get one of their big mugs that are refillable and that are insulated. Every morning load it with ice and water, and keep it with you during the day, refill it as often as possible. If you drink plenty of cool liquids, your body will feel better, and you will be able to fight summer heat better.
- Sun stroke is a very real problem in the summer, especially if you are pregnant, so if you feel lightheaded or dizzy, get out of the sun. This is very important.
- It is best to minimize your exposure to direct sunlight between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. This is when the rays are the hottest and the most damaging, and will make you the most uncomfortable when pregnant.
- One of the biggest reasons the summer is hard on pregnant women is that they run hot, and it is hot outside, so in order to avoid overheating always sit in at least partial shade.
- Pregnant skin tends to be more prone to burning and blotching in the sun due to hormonal influences than others, so remembering to apply your sunscreen, and getting it on at least 20 minutes before you go out is important.
- Take quick showers frequently to keep cool. They can help you regulate body temperature.
- If you start to feel too hot, and going inside is not an option, cool yourself off with some water. For example, if you are at the pool with your kids, you can get a spray bottle of water and spritz yourself if you feel uncomfortably hot.
- Whenever you can, put your feet up while sitting. This is going to help to alleviate swelling and improve circulation. In addition to that, in order to keep swelling and water retention down, cut back on the salt intake during the summer.
- Take frequent naps. The sun and heat have a way of zapping your energy, and leaving you exhausted, and it is only worse when you are pregnant, so nap when you can if you feel tired.
- Ask for help. Summer is exhausting, so do not beat yourself up for picking dinner up at the local fast food joint. It you're too tired to cook, clean, or run errands, then don't. Ask someone else to do it, or just let things go until you feel up to it.
