Naturally, during pregnancy, the average temperature of your body will increase about one degree above normal. Because, the body of a pregnant woman releases progesterone throughout the pregnancy. So, it wouldn’t be in favor of you if you are pregnant during the summer season. However, try to feel relaxed. It isn’t as bad as it seems. Stay with us to learn some necessary tips for healthy pregnancy in the hot summer months.
10 Essential Tips to Stay Healthy During a Summer Pregnancy
Drink Enough water
You need to hydrate yourself so make sure you drink at least 64 ounces of water each day. Keep a bottle of water near you so that you can drink water throughout the day. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty. If you do so, your body is already showing signs of dehydration.
Remember, water is essential for a pregnant woman related to air. You can take diluted juices as well, but it is more important to keep drinking plain water regularly which is essential for both the mother and the baby.
Limit outdoor activities
Don’t go outside on the hot summer days unnecessarily although it is necessary to get some fresh air that is too good during pregnancy. So, try to stay inside as much as possible. It is better for you if you take your walking or exercise either in the morning or evening. Make sure you don’t go outside during the peak hours like 11 am to 4 pm when the sun’s rays are strongest.
Take a bath with cool water
To make you cool on hot summer days is very important. So, the cool water bath will make you feel comfortable and a lot more pleasant. You can take swimming which is also very good for pregnant women. If you have time, you can go to the pool near your house to enjoy the cool summer.
Whenever you find you are having a hard time staying cool, take a break for a nice shower to cool you off.
Besides, sprinkling with cool water can relieve you from hotness. So, sprinkle with water when you step outside so that you can keep your body temperature in control. However, never forget to consult your doctor before starting any new physical activity.
Wear breathable clothing
Avoid wearing dark clothes like black or red as they increase heat absorption which makes pregnant women feel hotter. So, make sure on hot sunny days you select bright clothes like white, and beige to reflect the sun’s rays. Moreover, you need to wear loose and breathable clothes. If you want to keep yourself cooler throughout the day you must choose the cotton fabric. Besides, you need to wear sunglasses, a sun-proof vest and use sunblock when going out.
Intake Healthy Diet
Of course, you need to pay extra attention to your diet at the time of your pregnancy, especially during summer days. So, include more and leafy vegetables in your diet along with a moderate quantity of fruits that provide you the entire required nutrient for you and your baby.
Besides, drinking healthy juice is also essential to keep your body temperature cool. But make sure you intake small diets at a particular time during the day to maintain the metabolism of the body. Don’t eat spicy foods.
Proper Exercise
You can take exercises like walking, swimming, yoga, and other pregnancy exercises that are good for you and your baby but make sure you take them in the morning when the temperature is low.
In the early stage of your pregnancy you can exercise regularly, but when you are further into your pregnancy and the heat is on, cut back on the duration and intensity of exercise.
Make sure you take a rest during exercise when you feel tired. However, whatever you do, make sure of your comfort zone by not overstressing yourself.
Take proper rest and sleep
Remember, sleep and rest are very important matters for mothers. Sleeping is helpful to minimize stress. So, take time for yourself and relax by reading a book, listening to music, or doing meditation. You also know that rest is very important during pregnancy so take enough rest.
Besides, as summer heats make pregnant women more tired, take a short nap after lunch. You need to do it regularly. A nap after lunch will give you more comfort and you will feel relaxed. You can take a fresh juice once you wake up.
Take care of your legs
During pregnancy, the common issues can be swelling legs. The summer heat is also associated with swelling legs. You can avoid the swelling of your foot by taking the following steps:
– Keep your legs up on the pillows while you are sleeping.
– Do not sit while hanging the legs down during pregnancy.
– You should buy well-fitted shoes while you are pregnant to get comfortable and relax.
– Wear the correct choice of footwear during exercise. Your footwear should be comfy while walking, also that is part of the exercise.
Hair Care
Don’t forget to take care of your hair during pregnancy. Massage your scalp with cooling hair oil to feel relaxed. You can also shorten the length of your hair. Short hair will give you relaxation. But if you do not like to cut your hair or short your hair, of course, tie your hair into a pony or a bun to avoid sweating on your neck. It is really necessary to ensure that you allow proper passage of air on your neck and the back.
Skin Care
Naturally, during pregnancy skin becomes dry, so take proper care of your skin. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen on your face and wear sunglasses to protect your skin from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun whenever you go out. Besides, it is important to take care of your lips from getting dry. You can use the finest quality lip balms to take proper care of your lip. Moreover, a prenatal massage can give more comfort on hot summer days.
Source: United News of Bangladesh