Nearing the end of your pregnancy in the summertime is something most women prefer to avoid, but don’t always have a choice about. Summer is beautiful, and a favorite season for many. When you are already dealing with late-term pregnancy symptoms, though, summer can be excruciating. What are some common concerns about summertime pregnancy, and their solutions?
Heat
Heat seems to be the big complaint of women who are “very pregnant” in the summertime. A woman who is carrying around extra weight and feels like a human furnace, in the hottest season of the year, can be a recipe for disaster.
If you want to stay cool in the summertime, avoid the sun at the hottest times, such as midday. Choose activities that have a cooling effect, like lounging in a swimming pool. Take it easy and head to a movie theatre or a shopping mall in order to soak up some air conditioning. This will give you a welcome break from the heat. Carry around a bottle of water with a spray nozzle to spray your face and skin when the heat is getting miserable.
Dehydration
Dehydration is a complaint that can also be a health risk to you and your unborn baby. A healthy baby needs a well-hydrated mama. It is especially important to keep on top of this when you are pregnant in the summer.
In order to prevent dehydration, consume plenty of water. In addition to your regular eight cups of water, drink an additional cup of water for every hour spent in the sun. If you are tired of plain water, add a squeeze of lemon, or mix with juice. Making healthy homemade popsicles is another great way to fill up on liquids. Use a mixture of juice, blended fruit and herbal tea to create a popsicle that is satisfying, delicious, and good for you and your baby.
Swelling
Women in later pregnancy often develop edema, or swelling due to water retention. Summer can be a very uncomfortable time to have this condition. The heat can aggravate it as well, but how does an expectant mom avoid this?
It is important to take the time to rest while pregnant, especially in the later stages. To prevent or minimize edema, take time to sit down and put your feet up… literally. This will help the swelling lessen in the feet, ankles, and legs. Try to decrease your salt intake as this also helps prevent water retention.
Exhaustion
Exhaustion is somewhat normal for pregnant women. The later stages of pregnancy are a busy time, trying to prepare for your new baby. The summer heat always intensifies these feelings of weariness.
Although feeling tired during late pregnancy is a fact that many women cannot escape, there are ways to lessen it. Be sure to take frequent naps whenever possible. Avoid doing exhausting things. Late pregnancy is not the best time to be moving to a new home, building a patio in the intense heat, or mowing an acre of grass. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Late pregnancy is a beautiful and exciting time, but it has its issues. Summer can make late pregnancy a hassle, but you can eliminate the potential pitfalls and enjoy the last of your moments as a pregnant woman. Enjoy the extra fresh air, sunshine, and outdoor exercise available. Use these tips to survive your summer pregnancy and you will turn a potentially bad summer into a great one.
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