Summer Pregnancy Tips

Making Summer More Comfortable for Moms-to-Be

Pregnancy can be uncomfortable, to say the least — now factor in the summer heat. Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to make the summer months more bearable. Here’s what you should know.

Stay Hydrated

Staying properly hydrated is important for everyone during the summer months—especially pregnant women. With your body going through continuous physical and hormonal changes as your little one grows, you’re at a higher risk for dehydration. While most people are advised to drink between 11 and 16 cups of water each day, it is recommended that pregnant women try to increase their water intake.

Try to Stay Cool

Since pregnant women are constantly exerting energy, their bodies tend to run warmer than the average person — leaving them more prone to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion. Along with staying hydrated, it’s important for pregnant women to do what they can to help regulate their body temperatures.

Here are some tips to help cool the body down:

• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
• Stay out of direct sunlight
• Mist yourself with water
• Stay inside where there’s air conditioning when you can
• Spend time in shaded areas when outdoors

Elevate Your Feet

While pregnant, the volume of blood and fluids present in the body increase by almost 50% — which can bring on swollen and uncomfortable ankles and feet. Unfortunately, the summer heat can intensify this inflammatory symptom.

To provide yourself with some relief this summer, try to elevate your feet as much as possible. While being active is great for your circulation, elevating your feet while relaxing can help drain the fluids that pool in your ankles and feet.

If you have additional health concerns as the weather continues to heat up, reach out to your obstetrician or certified nurse midwife.

Women’s Health Services in Macomb, Illinois

At the McDonough District Hospital Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, you can expect compassionate and exceptional care no matter your female reproductive health condition or concern. Our board certified obstetricians and gynecologists and certified nurse midwife provide women’s health services for women of all ages, from your first period to menopause and beyond.

To learn more about our women’s health services, visit our website or give us a call at (309) 833-4101.