Pregnancy health: Expert advice for staying safe during a summer pregnancy

Heat spells can be tough on all of us. But it can be especially hard for moms-to-be.

More babies are born June-September in the United States than at other times of the year. That means more expectant moms literally sweat out the last trimester of their pregnancy when outside temps are at their peak. 

“During pregnancy, your body works harder and produces more heat than usual. This makes it difficult to stay cool, especially in hot or humid weather,” says Alina Satterfield, a family medicine physician who also delivers babies at PeaceHealth in Vancouver, Washington.  “That’s due to hormonal changes and the body working a little harder. So it doesn’t help when it’s hot outside.”

Why avoid the heat

Staying relatively cool and comfortable is important for your health and for your growing baby.

One of the biggest dangers of feeling overheated is not having enough fluids to hydrate your body. 

When you’re dehydrated, you might feel light-headed, dizzy or sick to your stomach. It can also cause confusion.

Dehydration also puts you at greater risk of falling. And this is something to guard against, particularly in your second and third trimesters. 

10 Tips for a safer summer pregnancy

“Pregnancy makes you more likely to get dehydrated, which can increase the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. It’s important to stay hydrated, rest often, and avoid too much time in the heat,” says Dr. Satterfield. 

Here are 10 ways to get or stay cool:

1. Drink water. Even though this will make you pee more often, it’s vital for helping your body function well.
2. Stay inside when temperatures creep into the 90s or when there's high humidity. Humidity is moisture in the air. When it’s humid, it’s harder for your body to cool off.
3. Wear light, loose breathable clothing.
4. Choose healthy foods such as veggies, fruits, lean proteins and good fats. You might cut back on salty, spicy or hot fare. It can make you feel puffy, sweaty or bloated.
5. Use fans or air conditioning to circulate the air. If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, see if you can go to a friend’s house or a public place like the library or community center where you can relax for a while.
6. Place cold compresses on your neck, the inside of your wrists, elbows or knees. A misting bottle can also help.
7. Take a quick lukewarm shower or bath. (Ice baths are NOT recommended in pregnancy for a few reasons. For one thing, it can put too much stress on the heart. For another, it reduces blood flow to the baby.)
8. Sleep on sheets made of natural fiber such as cotton, linen or bamboo. Making the room darker can also make it seem cooler and more restful. Blackout curtains or eye shades are good options.
9. If you’re in or near water, be careful about:

• Slippery tiles by a swimming pool
• Slimy rocks in streams or lakes
• Strong ocean waves or currents

          Read additional tips to feel more confident around water.

   10. Exercise or do physical activity only inside or at cooler times of the day.

If your job or home make it difficult for you to stay comfortable, talk to your doctor or care team. They might be able to recommend other options.

“Hot weather puts extra stress on people whose bodies are already under strain,” Dr. Satterfield says. “Find strategies to help you and your baby stay comfortable whatever the weather and talk to your family doctor or OB/Gyn if you have specific questions or concerns.”