Many women plan their pregnancy around the different seasons of the year. Perhaps they want to avoid being in the third trimester during the dog days of summer. But for many of us, pregnancy comes when it comes – and we find ourselves looking forward to a summer due date. Which also means that we will spend the third trimester during the long, hot, dog days of summer!
Heat can often be an enemy of a pregnant woman. Outdoor heat can lead to an increased swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, legs and face – and can make it seem even more difficult to breathe between the steamy air and compression of weight on your lungs.
Luckily, there are a few things that you can do to survive summer pregnancy with your sanity in tact.
1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! The summer heat may cause you to swell and sweat, but it can also dehydrate you. Make sure that during the hot summer months, you are drinking plenty of water. If you spend time outdoors sweating, water needs to be your best friend. Also, think about frozen beverages and treats such as slushies and popsicles! As long as you stick to sugar- and alcohol-free concoctions, you can hydrate in style as often as you want.
2. Never under-estimate a dip in the pool. In fact, a summer pregnancy can be the perfect time to invest in a wading pool. Even better is that a little floating and swimming is the perfect sort of exercise for your pregnant body as it doesn’t put undue pressure on your joints and muscles. You will find that your body is super buoyant, and that a dip in a cool pool can be just the thing to get you through a hot summer pregnancy! Just remember that your skin may burn more easily, and you need to wear a safe, natural sunscreen to protect you from getting sunburnt.
3. Take a load off! The heat is certain to tire you out a little more. Whether you are playing outdoors or taking a walk, make sure that you take time to rest and relax. One great idea is to put a hammock in your favorite shade tree! If you find that you are swelling more than normal, come inside to the air conditioning and prop up those feet. Someone else can handle the gardening and lawn maintenance until the baby arrives.
Truth is, while being pregnant in the heat of summer can be frustrating, it is a great time to have a baby. Summer born babies have less run-ins with colds and flu, are less susceptible to respiratory viruses, and mom and baby will be able to spend time outdoors without worrying about freezing or bundling up too much.
Written By Stef, Mom of 4 @Momspirational
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2018. All rights reserved.