August is one of the hottest months in Texas. Interestingly, it is also the month when most children are born in the USA. Why this is so, is subject too much speculation. Some suggest it may be because the cold weather in late fall or winter forces people to spend more time indoors heating things up at home and 9 months later a child is born to the world! Whatever the reason, many mothers-to-be find being pregnant during this time of the year raises body temperatures to uncomfortable levels.
Here are some tips for staying cool and comfortable during your pregnancy:
- Hydration: Dehydration can cause women to go into preterm labor, so drinking plenty of water is very important. Carry a bottle of water with you wherever you go. Sports drinks that contain electrolytes can help replace lost salt and fluid.
- Overheating: When the temperature rises above 90 degrees, as it so often does in Texas, stay indoors near an air conditioner or a fan. Taking a quick shower and sipping on a cool mocktail are also options if you feel your body overheating.
- Edema: During pregnancy your body produces about 50% more fluids to meet the needs of your developing baby. A slight swelling in your hands and feet should therefore be expected. To help reduce swelling you should avoid prolonged standing or tight restrictive clothing, use cold compresses, reduce salt intake, and keep your feet up whenever possible.
- Malasma-Safe Sunscreen: Malasma AKA ‘Mask of Pregnancy’ is a skin disorder that commonly affects pregnant women. One of the best ways to prevent this condition is by staying out of the sun. Wear proper protection if going out in the sun is unavoidable. This includes wearing broad-rimmed hats and most importantly applying sunscreen with an SPF equal to or greater than 15.
- Safe Exercise During Summer Months: Swimming is the ideal exercise for pregnant women in the summer time. It keeps you cool, reduces the stress on your joints, and exercises every muscle in your body including your heart. If you are not into swimming, try water aerobics or any low-impact activity that gets your whole body moving. Just make sure you don’t overexert yourself.
Pregnancy is probably the only time in your life when watching your belly expand could be a positive thing. So go ahead and pamper yourself because you deserve the best.
ReproMed Fertility Center is committed to providing comprehensive infertility and reproductive health care, including In-vitro fertilization (IVF). Our physicians formulate individualized treatment plans for each patient so they have the best chance of conceiving. ReproMed Fertility Center can offer new hope to those seeking to overcome infertility in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.