In most cases during the hot and humid summer months you will spend your time wondering if your air conditioner is actually working – because no matter what you set the temperature at you just won’t seem to be able to cool down.
One of the benefits of being pregnant during the summer months is that you will definitely get more fresh air – and this is a good thing.
Tips for a healthy and cool summer
- If you do have chores or tasks you need to do outdoors – do them in the morning or evening when it is cooler.
- When temperatures go above 90F – make sure you stay indoors and close to the fan or air conditioner.
- Wear light-colored and light fabric clothing. Don’t even go anywhere near skin tight clothes!
- Keep yourself well hydrated by drinking plenty of liquid. You can also replace lost electrolytes and salts by drinking some sports drinks – but don’t overdo them.
- Carry a spray bottle of water with you at all times.
- Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher 20 minutes before going into sun — reapply throughout the day.
- f you need to cool down, then taking a cool shower will do the trick. If you do have access to a pool – you could take cooling dips to help stay cool. Try and avoid being in the pool during the hottest parts of the day though!
- Feet and ankles swollen all the time? Then keep you feet up to help alleviate swelling.
- If you want to minimize water retention and bloating then you should try minimize your salt intake.
- Take frequent naps.
- Ask for help! You will definitely have less energy during the summer months, so don’t be afraid to ask for help if you are finding it difficult to cook, clean or run errands.
- Beware of typical barbecue foods such as potato salad and coleslaw that, when left out in the sun, can sour and cause stomach upset.
- Your skin is generally more susceptible to skin damage while you are pregnant and so the summer months will put even more stress and strain on your skin – making it more prone to damage.
- Dealing With Heat Rash Miliaria, or prickly heat rash, can be caused by both heat and sweat and typically occurs where two skin surfaces have touched or rubbed – such as under your breasts or between your thighs. You can help to prevent this from happening by keeping these sort or areas dry, so when you get out of the shower or bath, make sure that you keep these areas, or other areas where skin rubs, dry.If you do develop a rash, then speak to your healthcare provider about what lotion or powder is best to use.
- Dry, Itchy Skin Dry skin is common during pregnancy and will often lead to itchy skin as well. You can prevent itchy skin during the summer months by using moisturizing shower products and applying lotions immediately following a shower or bath.
- Patches and Dark Spots The mask of pregnancy is fairly common to many women. This is usually caused by the change of hormones over the course of their pregnancy. It is especially common among brunettes and darker-skin toned women. You can help prevent melasma from happening – or getting worse – by keeping your face and upper chest away from tanning lamps and excessive sunlight. Remember, if you do go out into the summer sunlight be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen before hand.
Try A Home Made Spa Treatment?
Why not try one of the refreshing home spa treatments to leave you feeling fresh and pampered? Find out more…Surviving Summer & Pregnancy
