Staying Cool During a Summer Pregnancy

Staying cool and comfortable during a summer pregnancy might seem impossible, but it’s actually much easier than you may think. If you take the right precautions, you can make the hotter months more bearable even as your belly grows.

Maternity Clothing
When you’re shopping for your maternity wardrobe, keep the hot, humid temperatures in mind. Go for light-colored clothing in breathable materials to help provide your body with some relief. When you are planning to be outside, we recommend wearing the following:

• Floppy hat: Wearing a hat helps to provide shade.
• Dresses and skirts: Flowy fabrics will keep you cooler and allows room for growth as your tummy gets bigger.
• Sandals or flip flops: Permits your feet to breathe and provides room for swelling.

Quench Your Thirst
When you’re pregnant, your body needs more water than average – this is especially true during the summer. You should be drinking at least six to eight glasses of water each day in order to stay properly hydrated. Not only does it help provide some relief in the heat, but it also lessens other side effects like swelling. If you’re struggling to meet your daily water intake, consider upping the amount of fruits and vegetables that are rich in water or infusing your water with fruit and herbs for a delicious twist.

Take a Dip
Nothing feels better than getting into a cool swimming pool in the sweltering heat. Not only is it a great way to cool off, but it’s also an exercise option many pregnant women love. While it is important to speak with your doctor about any exercise you intend to do while pregnant, being in the water is much easier on your joints than other common workout routines like running. Remember that if you decide to go for a swim, using sunscreen is essential to protecting your skin, which is extra-sensitive during pregnancy.

Have you experienced pregnancy during the summer? What were some of your favorite ways to stay cool? Share them with us in the comments.