Summer Pregnancy Strategies
In 2010, more women in the United States gave birth in September than any other month (closely followed by August), aligning the third trimester with the hottest months of the year. And while there are many advantages to an early fall birth, being very pregnant during the summer can sometimes be a struggle. When you’re pregnant, your body temperature is already a little higher than normal, making hot and humid days pretty uncomfortable. Since pregnancy increases heat intolerance, stay cool as much as possible and check out the following guidelines for beating the summer heat: Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Even though it means extra trips to the restroom, drink at least eight glasses of water a day. You can also enjoy summer mocktails, juice and smoothies. Swim. A great low-impact form of exercise, swimming also cools you off and helps lower your body temperature.
Dress for summer success. Wear comfortable, loose and breathable fabrics to reduce sweating, heat rash and overall irritability. Don’t be afraid to show your changing shape! Plan some indoor fun. Whether it’s an afternoon movie in a cool theater, dinner with friends or a weekend getaway, you can enjoy indoor pleasures, too. Put your feet up. If you are in your second or third trimester and experiencing leg swelling, elevate your legs and take some time to relax. Avoid mid-day sun. Pregnant women are more susceptible to sunburn, so mind your sun time and wear sunscreen. Finally, call your doctor if you experience extreme dizziness, weakness or fatigue due to the heat. It’s summertime and the living may not always be easy when you’re pregnant, but with some precautions and modifications, you can still enjoy the season in style.
