Pregnancy Article:

Beating The Heat When You're Pregnant In Summer

By: Alice Seba

The heat in the summertime can be quite unbearable for the average person. When you are pregnant, the discomfort increases tenfold. Learn how to beat the heat and stay safe while you are pregnant.

The first thing to remember is to avoid overexertion. When the temperature rises, it takes less effort to make one tired. If a trip to the shops leaves you feeling drained, a few minutes on the couch with your feet propped up is well deserved.

Work or leisure activities out of doors should be kept to a minimum between the hours of ten o'clock in the morning and four o'clock in the afternoon. When the sun is at its highest point, the risk of heat related illnesses increase. If you must be out at these times, wear a wide brimmed hat to shade your face and light coloured clothing.

The most common heat related illnesses are heat exhaustion and stroke. People don't pay enough attention to their symptoms to realise that they are coming down with something that could be potentially life threatening. When you are pregnant, early warning signs are very important.

Extreme heat causes the body to sweat more in order to cool off. When there is not enough water taken in on a hot day, you can become dehydrated. Some symptoms are: constipation, thirst, fatigue, dizziness, and dry lips. Getting to a cool and shady place to rest is advised if any of these symptoms are noticed.

Heat exhaustion involves dehydration and exposure to high temperatures for a prolonged amount of time. Nausea and headaches can occur in this case. When symptoms like this occur, your body's cooling system has begun to malfunction in some way. If your body can't cool itself off then neither can your baby. Their organs are still developing and they lack the ability to sweat.

Heat stroke raises the body temperature to dangerous levels (over 37.7 degrees celsius). Fainting and convulsions could result. Medical attention is needed right away to avoid a fatal outcome.

Heat related illnesses could cause premature labour contractions. A baby's heart rate will increase beyond the normal. Hyperthermia can cause birth defects in your developing baby if experienced during the first or third trimester.

Playing it safe when the weather gets hot will keep you and your baby safe from harm. Drink plenty of fluids, dress in cool fabrics, and take a break as often as you need it. Paying attention to your body will keep the warm weather from becoming dangerous.

Back to Pregnancy Articles