Carrying a baby in your belly can be a wonderful experience, but it comes with many challenges, particularly staying cool during summer. Hot temperatures can affect the mother’s wellbeing and even the baby.
Therefore, it’s essential to take extra care during pregnancy’s summer months to keep you and your baby healthy. Here are 30 ways on how to stay cool during pregnancy.
1. Wear Light Clothes
During summer, it’s essential to wear clothes that will keep you relaxed, and comfortable. Go for light, airy dresses, and loose-fitting outfits that will allow air to circulate easily and keep you calm in high temperatures.
2. Turn on the Fan
Keeping the air circulating in your room is essential. Turning on the fan will move the air in specific directions, create a breeze, and create a cooling effect.
3. Avoid the Heat
Avoid staying outdoors or exposed to direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. Schedule your outdoor activities in the morning or the late afternoons when the sun is less intense.
4. Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is crucial during pregnancy, especially in hot weather. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help you stay cool and prevent dehydration.
5. Use a Wet Cloth or Towel
Using a wet cloth or towel on your forehead, neck, and arms can help you feel cooler. The water will evaporate, creating a cooling effect that will make you feel much better.
6. Invest in a Good-quality Sun Hat
A hat with a broad brim will protect you from the sun rays and keep your head cool. Also, make sure to use sunscreens to protect from damages to your skin.
7. Sleep on Cotton Sheets
Cotton sheets are excellent in hot weather because they are lightweight and breathable. You will sleep more comfortably, and the material will help with sweating issues that may come with pregnancy.
8. Put Your Feet Up
During pregnancy, it is common for swelling to occur, particularly in the feet and legs. Elevate your feet above your heart level to help the blood flow back to your heart and reduce swelling. This can be done by lying down on a bed or using a cushion.
9. Take Cool Showers
A cool shower is an excellent way of cooling off and relaxing during hot weather. It will help with any pregnancy-related exhaustion, overheating or sweating, and can even aid in getting a better night’s sleep.
10. Use a Cooling Mister Fan
A cooling mist fan sprays a fine mist of water and cooling agents that evaporate and create a cooling effect. They can be a game-changer for anyone who cares about keeping cool during pregnancy summers.
11. Go for a Swim
Swimming is an excellent way to keep cool and provide comfort in pregnancy. It’s a low-impact activity that promotes overall wellbeing and is suitable for many expectant mothers.
12. Take Advantage of AC
Consider investing in an air conditioner to keep your living space cool and comfortable. It will make a significant difference in the quality of your sleep and everyday activity during hot weather.
13. Indulge in Cold Treats
Ice cream, slushies, popsicles, frozen yogurt, and other cold treats can provide a sweet way to cool down during pregnancy summers. Satisfy your sweet tooth, and stay immediately relieved from heat at the same time!.
14. Go for Breathable Shoes
During pregnancy, your feet can swell, making your shoes uncomfortable. Choose footwear that is airy and breathable – such as sandals and sneakers – to reduce perspiration and keep you comfortable in hot weather.
15. Try Hydrotherapy
Whirlpool baths, Jacuzzis, and hot tubs can cause overheating and should be avoided during pregnancy. Try hydrotherapy techniques such as walking, water aerobics, or a simple soak in cool water to keep you refreshed and comfortable during summer.
16. Take Naps
During the summer, even the fanciest of women can feel tired and exhausted due to the heat. Napping during the day is an effective way to recharge and is essential if you find it hard to sleep through the night.
17. Stay in Ventilated Areas
Being in a poorly ventilated area increases the temperature around you and can make you feel uncomfortable. Stay in rooms with good air circulation, open windows, or use a fan to keep a pleasant atmosphere.
18. Use a Body Pillow
As pregnancy advances, finding a comfortable sleeping position can be challenging.
Using a body pillow improves blood flow, reduces swelling, and supports the spine, reducing the discomfort and overheating sensation that might come with pregnancy summers.
19. Use Light Bedding
Switch to lightweight blankets and sheets that do not trap heat. Avoid heavy bedding like comforters and duvets that can make you feel hot and uncomfortable during summer nights.
20. Carry a Water Bottle
Carry a water bottle with you everywhere you go to remind you to stay hydrated. Consistent drinking can prevent dehydration and ensure you remain comfortable in hot weather.
21. Use a Cooling Mat
Using a cooling mat under your pillow or in your bed can help provide relief from heat and reduce sweating. It’s an excellent way to ensure that your nights are comfortable during pregnancy summers.
22. Stay Indoors
Spending time outdoors is good for mental health. However, It’s essential to stay indoors when the temperature rises. Stay cool by watching your favorite show, or enjoy a book with air-conditioned space for comfort.
23. Keep Your Hair Up
Women with long hair might feel the heat more intensely during pregnancy. Keeping your hair up exposes your neck, allowing air to circulate around your head and decreasing the amount of heat absorbed by your body.
24. Try Yoga
Yoga is effective in promoting relaxation and reducing tension in the body during pregnancy. Many of Mount Momma’s poses reduce stress and increase the flexibility of pregnant women.
Besides, it is an enjoyable way to build strength and keep cool during summer months.
25. Cook Light Meals
Cooking in the heat can increase your body temperature, making you feel uncomfortable during pregnancy. Instead, stick to smoothies, salads, and other light meals that require little to no cooking and are easy on the stomach.
26. Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol
Caffeinated and alcoholic drinks can dehydrate the body, making pregnant women feel hot and uncomfortable. Instead, substitute these drinks with water or other hydrating, non-alcoholic beverages.
27. Install a Ceiling Fan
A ceiling fan is an excellent way to keep the air circulating in a room, creating a breeze that helps keep you cool. It can be a game-changer for anyone who cares about keeping cool during pregnancy summers.
28. Practice Mindful Breathing
Mindful breathing is effective in reducing stress and promoting relaxation. It is essential during pregnancy, especially during hot weather when stress and anxiety can result in increased body temperature.
29. Wear a Loose-fitting Sun Dress
A loose-fitting sun dress is perfect for pregnancy summers. It is light, airy, and easy to wear, providing a comfortable fit that helps you stay cool even during the hottest days of the year.
30. Install Blinds, Curtains, or Shades
Blinds, curtains, or shades block the sun’s rays, creating a cooler environment in which to relax. They are great for bedrooms, living rooms, or any room in the house that receives a lot of sunlight.