You always want to take care of your body, but when you’re pregnant, you have extra responsibilities. At FemmePro OB/GYN, we help you promote good health and experience comfort as you carry your baby — especially in the hot, humid summer months.
Here are some tips from the obstetrics specialists at our offices in Garden City and North Massapequa, New York, to keep your body cool, comfortable, and safe even in the hottest months.
Mind the heat
It’s not your imagination; it is hotter this summer — for you! When you’re pregnant, you have more of the hormone progesterone, which usually helps regulate your menstrual cycle. The increase in this hormone raises your internal body temperature. When it’s hot outside and you’re hot inside, be mindful that you may overheat more quickly than usual.
Stay hydrated
Pregnant women need more water than the average person. Aim for about 12 eight-ounce glasses of water per day. You can also get hydration from juicy fruits, so fill up on watermelon and grapes. Drinking water helps keep your body temperature moderated and can also reduce nausea.
To keep your water intake up, sip on water all day long. Carry a water bottle with you and keep one next to your bed. If you’re busy and drinking water easily slips your mind, set a reminder on your phone to go off every one to two hours.
Keep your skin protected
You may want to show off more in the summer months, but sun protection is critical. A burn when you’re pregnant is incredibly uncomfortable and does long-term harm to your skin.
Wear sunscreen and avoid the sun during peak hours in the middle of the day. If you’re trying to stay cool, wear loose clothing rather than strip down to expose your skin. A maxi dress perfectly accommodates your growing belly and allows air to circulate to help keep your body temperature down.
Exercise smartly
Exercising while pregnant is healthy, as long as cleared by your doctor, but it can cause you to become dehydrated more quickly. You’ll want to take in about 16 ounces more fluids for every hour you exercise, especially if you’re outside in the heat.
When you do go outside to do your workout, aim for the cooler parts of the day, like morning or evening. Or, head to the pool for your workout. Try water aerobics or swimming laps to support your body weight so you reduce stress on your joints and minimize edema or swelling. The pool also helps you stay cool and comfortable.
Know when you’ve had too much heat
You’ll know you’ve overdone your fun in the sun if you’ve stopped sweating and feel light-headed or dizzy. Get yourself into the shade or, better yet, into an air-conditioned space. Use a damp cloth on your forehead and neck to cool yourself down and drink water.
The experienced team of OB/GYNs and midwives at FemmePro OB/GYN are honored to help you welcome your new baby into the world. We want you to have the healthiest, most comfortable pregnancy possible, so if you have concerns or questions, reach out. Call one of the offices today or use the online tool to set up an appointment.
