Pregnancy can cause a multitude of discomforts – which are often heightened during the summer months with the heat.
The increase in blood volume, fluid retention and processes like metabolism working overtime often make summer almost unbearable for some women.
Luckily, there are some ways to help you stay cool and comfortable on these hot days!
STAY HYDRATED
This is incredibly important throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding regardless of the weather, however it’s no surprise that our need for adequate hydration is increased during the warm months.
The metabolic processes occurring in your body to make a baby and breastmilk use water to function properly. Breastmilk itself is more than 80% water.
As every person needs different amounts of water to remain hydrated, at minimum a pregnant or breastfeeding woman should aim to drink at least 2L of water per day.
It is also important to focus on understanding the symptoms of dehydration in order to avoid it.
Symptoms of Dehydration:
Constipation
Dry mouth and chapped lips
Fatigue
Lack of energy
Headaches
Cramps
Nausea
Moodiness
Dizziness
Remember liquids can come from foods too -eating foods such as cucumber, watermelon and apples, soup, berries and oranges all contribute to fluid intake.
WEAR LOOSE AND LIGHT CLOTHES
During pregnancy, you’ll probably already be inclined to wear loose comfortable clothing as it makes a huge difference in overall body comfort.
Sweating and perspiration are often more pronounced during pregnancy so allowing the skin to cool and dry quickly will help alleviate some discomfort.
FIND A POOL/OCEAN/LAKE OR ANY BODY OF WATER
Not only is swimming a fantastic form of gentle exercise during pregnancy, it can also provide huge benefits for relieving body, muscle and pelvic pain by allowing the body to feel weightless whilst also cooling you down.
Swimming or floating in water may also help with increased circulation and reduction of swelling. Swimming allows you to safely exercise while staying cool and reducing the risk of overheating in the hot sun. It really doesn’t get any better than that!
CHIROPRACTIC CARE
Of course, we think this is the best way to ensure you stay comfortable during the warm summer months.
Chiropractic care during pregnancy is incredibly effective in ensuring your body remains comfortable as your belly grows.
Not to mention, we have aircon! Staying cool in our practice is easy!
KEEP YOUR ENVIRONMENT COOL AND HIBERNATE
If you have the ability to keep your house cool, use this time to turn the aircon on, kick your feet up and watch a movie at home and relax before your world changes when your little one arrives!
This might be a nice time to start organising your newborn clothes or preparing for birth, read up on breastfeeding or write a birth plan.