Pregnancy is arguably among the best times in a woman’s life, but that doesn’t mean it’s without its fair share of struggles.
1. Summer Pregnancy Struggles
The hot summer weather is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to summer pregnancy struggles. Even cooling down isn’t easy due to a short list of baby-safe ingredients. The heat is enough to drive you crazy, but will also have to deal with swelling, itching and the dehydration that can come as a result.
Unbearable heat
If the insanely high temperatures weren’t enough, pregnancy is quite literally like having a bun in the oven but the oven is your body. The hot feeling comes from the increased blood flow that accompanies pregnancy as you have about 50 percent more blood. Therefore, even under an AC, your base body temperature increases by an entire degree.
No margaritas
Those pretty tropical drinks with a tiny umbrella may have to wait until next year. Fortunately, you have mocktails and virgin daiquiris.
Beach body
While pregnancy gives a woman a special glow, some women struggle with confidence as their body changes and they find it difficult to embrace their beach belly.
No water sports
There are many no-nos for pregnant women and scuba diving is one of them. However, snorkeling is ok. Generally, you should avoid water skiing, tubing, surfing or any activity that could cause injuries which could harm the baby.
Even sunbathing needs to be done with care
Women can get sunburned more quickly when they are pregnant as hormonal changes can affect the melanin in your skin. Some women with dark hair and skin can even get dark patches.
Swelling
Women retain even more fluid when they are hot or when they are dehydrated, so summer can lead to heavy, swollen legs, arms and feet.
Itchiness
Lots of women have skin troubles when they are pregnant, including dry, itchy skin, especially on their bellies, where the skin is stretching to make room. The dry air just amplifies it.
Mosquitoes
Doctors are warning pregnant women about mosquitoes, after a Zika virus outbreak caused concern about babies born with a condition where a baby’s head is much smaller than normal and often comes with developmental problems.
Road trip blues
A car isn’t the most comfortable place for a pregnant woman. Driving will be challenging you can barely fit behind the steering wheel, and sitting for hours can be hard on your back. Moreover, prolonged sitting can cause deep vein thrombosis. Perhaps the biggest trouble will be to make frequent stops to relieve your beleaguered bladder.
2. Summer Pregnancy Survival Guide
While you are growing another human, your own body is taking a beating and you have to do whatever you can to ease the burden.
Make sure your home feels comfortable
Regularly maintain your HVAC system so it works efficiently to both keep you comfortable and keep your United Illuminating bill down.
Wear hats and sunscreen
If you get a severe burn, you can be at risk for heat stroke, which can be life-threatening for the mother and the baby.
Combat swelling
Stay hydrated, cut the caffeine and salt, exercise and put your feet up.
Ease the itchiness
Keep the lotion handy, and drinking water can help by keeping your skin hydrated. That diaper rash ointment that you bought for baby will come in handy to help heal your skin. You can also try baby powder or an aloe ointment. Wear loose clothes to prevent the issue hopefully.
Protect yourself from mosquitoes
Use a natural insect-repellent that is safe for pregnant women. Lemon eucalyptus, cedar and lavender oil are mild but effective at keeping mosquitoes away.
Drink plenty of water
Dehydration can cause dizziness, and it can also cause labor contractions.
Stay in the shade and go out when the sun isn’t as strong
Although you should spend more time at home with your AC on, being outside is beneficial to your mind, body, and spirit. When you do go up, stay in the shade, wear a hat and sunscreen and opt for comfortable and light-colored clothing. Try to do outdoor tasks in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
Find ways to relax
The most important factor for a healthy pregnancy, labor and pain-free breast-feeding is that the mother feels at ease. Take pre-natal classes, pre-natal yoga, mediate or do whatever makes you feel calm.
Add smoothies to your diet
Make a Pina Colada Smoothie from frozen coconut yogurt, frozen banana, crushed pineapple, and milk. Ask your nutritionist for healthy pregnancy smoothies and refreshing mocktails you can add to your daily routine.
The summer pregnancy struggles are real. But, mamas, there are a ways you can get some much-needed relief. Your priority should be to feel comfortable and calm.
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