The heat of the summer can take its toll on any woman, especially if they’re pregnant. If you’re planning on spending any length of time outdoors during the hottest months of the year, there are some things you’ll want to do to protect yourself. Putting you and your baby’s needs first is essential because it prevents sun damage from occurring to your skin and heatstroke which could cause significant birth defects in a developing fetus because your body’s core temperature has risen.
Here are some summer self-care tips for pregnant women:
- Drink plenty of hydrating H2O. Dehydration is something that happens to the body quickly especially during the hottest days of the year. Make sure that you carry a refillable water bottle around with you wherever you go. That way, you’re never without thirst-quenching water. H2O is essential for many of your bodily functions. It helps to remove toxins from your body and allows the nutrients you receive from food and beverages to circulate properly. Water will soon become your beverage of choice because it contains zero calories, quenches your thirst adequately, and is widely available wherever you go.
- Invest in good sun protection. Your summer wardrobe should consist of lightweight, stretchy fabrics in light colors that deflect sunlight. You should never leave home without a wide-brimmed hat and a pair of UVA/UVB-blocking sunglasses. You’ll also want to wear lightweight long-sleeved blouses or cover-ups while spending time outdoors. A pregnancy-safe sunscreen is essential even if you’re inside for most of the day. Some forms of artificial lighting are just as bad for your skin as spending time in the hot sun.
- Get plenty of rest. Do as much resting up as possible before having your baby. You’re going to need the extra sleep as a newborn doesn’t allow you to get much of it when he or she is first born. You’ll experience many sleep disruptions while caring for a baby. That’s why it’s important to sneak in a siesta here and there so that you’re always fresh-faced, clear-headed, and ready to tackle the day with ease.
Beat the heat this summer by exercising good self-care habits. Protect you and your unborn child from heat-related issues. Wear sunscreen that is safe for pregnant women. Make sure that you drink plenty of water and stay indoors during the hottest hours of the day which are between 12 PM to 3 PM in the summertime.
