Being pregnant is an exciting feeling, however being pregnant during the summer months can be a tiring experience. Pregnancy, irrespective of the weather causes hormonal imbalances within the body which increase the core body temperature. Hyperthermia or overheating can be a real cause for concern for expecting mothers. It can even lead to dehydration that can cause loss of blood supply to the baby.
There are some symptoms that can provide prior intimation of overheating during pregnancy. They are as follows:
- Feeling dehydrated or thirsty
- Feeling dizzy or light-headed
- Nausea
- Increased heart rate
However, there are certain factors that need to be adhered to in order to prevent overheating among pregnant women.
Drinking Lots Of Water
Notwithstanding pregnancy, drinking plenty of water during summer months is a must. But for pregnant women, it is extremely important to keep their bodies hydrated throughout the months of summer.
Wearing Breathable Clothes
As previously mentioned, pregnancy causes a rise in the body temperature, so wearing clothes that are light coloured and loose will allow the skin to stay cool. Cotton fabrics are ideal.
Remain Indoors
Although it is good for pregnant women to take walks and do light exercises, however, during summer it is best to schedule the walks after sunset, so as to limit heat exposure.
Avoid Coffee
An antenatal teacher for the National Childbirth Trust, Ruthie Pearlman, has stated that the rise in core body temperature can be due to caffeine intake as it tends to increase blood pressure. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant women should avoid coffee.
Eating Cooling Foods
Foods such as cucumber, watermelon, fresh peas and lettuce have a cooling effect on the body and as such are useful for pregnant women who are suffering from the effects of overheating.
Try Swimming
Swimming is an idyllic activity for pregnant women. Not only does it cool the body but it is also an excellent form of exercise to keep the expecting mother fit, while also avoiding overheating.
Sleep As Much As Possible
Sleep is essential for the body to relax and it is also important for pregnant women to rest as much as possible. Thus, sleeping not only relieves the body from exhaustion but also prevents overheating.
Even though the summer heat and humidity can make it unpleasant, it may still be possible to love and endure the hot summer months while pregnant. Be at the top of your game with ways to beat the heat during pregnancy and you may end up enjoying a healthy, cool and relaxing summer.