How to Survive Pregnancy During The Summer

Pregnancy is a beautiful experience that can easily be ruined by the heat of summer! Follow these steps to learn how to cope with pregnancy during the long, hot summer months.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A pregnant lady

1. Drink plenty of fluids!!! This is a must for any pregnant woman at any time, but especially during the summer when we tend to sweat. Fluids that contain electrolytes, such as Gatorade, are great for replenishing vital nutrients that are lost while sweating.

2. Get plenty of shade. Being out in the sun all day is great for your tan, but not so good for you while you're pregnant. It's easy to overheat and dehydrate on a hot day. Some sun is beneficial, but know your limits.

3. Wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing. A hot, sweaty, weighed down pregnant lady is not a happy pregnant lady.

4. Morning sickness is your enemy during hot weather. Vomiting causes dehydration, and the constant nausea makes for a miserable time. When you're feeling queasy, try eating saltines or dry toast, take Vitamin B6 capsules, eat water based fruits (think watermelon or honeydew melon) to replenish fluids, and try to stay cool.

5. If you need to do anything outside, such as yard work or going for a walk, be sure to do it in the early morning or evening hours, when it's cooler outside.

Tips & Warnings

• Summer doesn't last forever and neither does pregnancy. Try to enjoy yourself!
• If possible, invest in an air conditioner.
• Stock your freezer with popsicles - preferably the kind made with real fruit juice. A yummy and healthy way to cool down!
• I can't stress it enough - STAY HYDRATED!!!
• If these tips and tricks don't seem to be working, see a physician.
• While a cold beer is very refreshing on a hot day, pregnant women should not consume alcohol because of risks it poses to the unborn child. Opt for a virgin cocktail, or ice cold lemonade instead!

Resources

• Parents.com
• Babycenter.com
• Suite 101

[inpulse-ive]

on 6/21/2008 Fantastic article, and great idea!! I was pregnant during the summer, and I just wanted to add ---- DO NOT under any circumstances, skip the lotion on your belly - even if it feels sticky and uncomfortable, Would you rather end up with more stretch marks??