Being pregnant during the summer months can be fun, and very hot and sweaty at the same time. As if the summer heat were not enough, being pregnant can make you feel overheated much more easily than normal.
The hottest months can truly be miserable if you are not prepared. Knowing how to stay cool and hydrated will keep you and your baby healthy, and comfortable.
After all, becoming overheated during pregnancy can cause uncomfortable complications and birth defects. According to the experts, expectant mothers should do all they can to stay cool, as heat can lead to various medical problems, both for you and your unborn baby.
When a pregnant woman is exposed to summer weather conditions, her chances of becoming dehydrated are increased. Whether you are just out having fun in the sun or exercising outdoors, you need to be very careful to drink additional fluids.
If your body becomes deprived of enough water, you can have many serious complications, including early contractions which can lead to a premature delivery. You do not want to lose any of your blood volume, which can cause these dangerous contractions.
When a pregnant woman becomes overheated, she has increased risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and increased swelling of the extremities. Remember that your baby is always a little warmer than you to begin with, and they are not able to sweat to cool down.
Remember that it is your job to work hard to keep them cool. If they get too hot inside you, they can develop heart problems, nervous system defects, and defects in the abdominal wall.
When you are feeling too hot, remember that your baby's temperature should be your top priority as well. Avoiding fetal heat stress is especially important during the first trimester, as it is considered the critical period in the development of the spinal cord, and other important organs.
Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of dehydration and overheating, to help you identify the condition before it gets too serious. If you begin to feel dizzy, nauseous, lightheaded, or if you get a severe headache, be sure to do everything you can so cool down and hydrate immediately.
You may want to seek the help of a doctor as well. Try to lie down on your left side, with a cool cloth places on your forehead and the back of your neck.
This should help you begin to feel more comfortable right away. If your symptoms do not improve quickly, seek medical care right away.
If you begin to get cramps or contractions, you need to go to your nearest emergency room as quickly as possible. Look for any bleeding, swelling, vomiting, back pain, or pelvic pressure-these are all signs of a serious problem that needs attention right away.
If you do not have one already, invest in a good air-conditioning and heating unit. It can help you to stay feeling comfortable and cool in the summer, while keeping you and your baby toasty warm in the winter.
When you do want to spend some time outdoors, try to hit the pool as often as you can. Not only will a quick swim or soak help to bring down your body temperature but it will help you to feel refreshed as well.
Try to wear loose fitting clothing, that is thin in material as well. Get rid of all of your tight fitting clothing, as this will only raise your temperature, and make you feel uncomfortable.
Look on the internet for specific pieces of clothing designed to help pregnant women stay cool. Wear materials that are moisture wicking, so that they absorb air, instead of letting moisture sit on your skin.
If you can, avoid going out in the middle of the day, as the sun and the heat will be strongest. Always wear sunscreen to avoid any skin damage.
Drink at least eight glasses of water per day to stay hydrated, and avoid caffeine if you can. Try not to exercise outside in the heat, and carry a bottle of cool water to spray yourself with when you get too hot.
Take cool showers, instead of hot ones, and wear light-colored cotton clothing that reflects sunlight. If you are careful to follow these rules and take care of yourself, you and baby can stay feeling refreshed and cool even in the middle of July.
Author Resource:-
Terry Daniels is a former electrical engineer and has written hundreds of articles relating to air conditioning and heating, including shop heater. He has been involved in the air conditioning and heating business for over 16 years.
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