Being pregnant when it heats up during summer is no fun, I’ve been there! With the hot weather we are expecting this week I felt it a good time to share some tips for staying cool and comfortable. If you have a baby and would like some tips on keeping them comfortable and safe in this weather please read my post here.
Environment:
Keep your rooms cool by opening windows but closing curtains and blinds during the hottest part of the day or when the sun is shining directly into the room. If this isn’t enough to keep your room at a comfortable temperature then use a fan to keep the air circulating. Consider opening your loft hatch to allow hot air to escape.
Outside:
If you are outside then you may find that your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy so it is a good idea to stay in the shade if you can.
Carry a small spray bottle to manage hot flushes (this was a life saver for me!).
Dehydration is particularly dangerous during pregnancy, a reduction in fluid volume in body also decreases blood flow to the placenta. Keep hydrated by carrying a bottle of water with you at all times. Take sips throughout the day even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Cooling the body:
Take frequent lukewarm (not cold as that encourages your body to retain heat) showers or baths throughout the day. Don’t towel dry yourself too much but allow the water to evaporate from your skin which will help cool you off quicker.
Putting feet in a bowl of cool water or a paddling pool will make you feel so much cooler, this was my go to in pregnancy!
Holding ice cubes to the pulse points in your writs can make your body feel a lot cooler. When out and about try running wrists under cool water for a bit of relief.
Indulging in ice lollies, sorbets or ice creams can be a great way to cool down on occasions but be sure to avoid too much sugar and artificial colourings.
Wear long hair up off the face and neck to allow cooling breezes to get to the skin. Spraying cooling water onto forehead and back of neck will help too.
Dress:
Wear loose fitting light coloured clothing that will keep you cool – fashion goes out the window at this stage I’m afraid! It’s all about comfort.
Swollen feet:
Swollen feet is a very common occurrence due to water retention during pregnancy but it’s important to know that if you have any of these following symptoms then call your midwife or GP immediately as they may suggest a serious condition called pre-eclampsia:
Sudden swelling of face, hands or feet
Head ache
Severe pain just below ribs
Problems with vision
To minimise swelling of feet and ankles reduce the amount of time standing still, go for little walks and rest with your feet elevated regularly. Doing foot exercises will help with circulation too:
Bend and stretch your foot up and down 30 times
Rotate each foot in a circle 8 times one way then 8 times the other way
I know it’s tough to get through this heatwave whilst feeling like you are the size of a whale but just remember summer baby means a summer birthday and it’s easy (and cheap) to celebrate summer birthdays in the garden! Hang on in there mumma!
If this information has been helpful and you want to know more about how to keep your baby safe when it arrives then consider taking a highly affordable but invaluable first aid course with Hannah from Daisy First Aid. Classes start from only £25.
