Pregnancy in summer: tips for the last trimester
In order to survive the heat during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, it is essential to give priority to hydration and carry out gentle activities in cool environments.
High temperatures and excessive heat can mean a challenge for pregnant women. “During pregnancy there is a natural tendency towards vasodilatation, which promotes a feeling of dizziness, fatigue and low blood pressure,” Javier Sánchez, gynaecologist and obstetrician at the hospital HLA La Vega in Murcia explains. “The risk of dehydration and oedemas also increases, particularly in the legs and ankles.”
The consequences affecting the physical and emotional condition of pregnant women, particularly in the last trimester of pregnancy become accentuated due to the fact that their bodies increase in weight and they retain more liquids. “In the third trimester, the woman’s body experiences a greater circulatory and metabolic overload. The uterus, by this time already very large, can compress abdominal vessels and make the venous return more difficult, encouraging oedemas or a feeling of heaviness. Additionally, the risk of a premature delivery is more present, meaning that it is crucial to avoid any situations of thermal stress or dehydration that could trigger it,” the gynaecologist warns.
In general terms, pregnant women are recommended to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, to keep themselves hydrated and to rest frequently in cool places during the summer months. It is also advisable to take note of the blood pressure and the warning symptoms, such as persistent headaches, blurred vision or premature contractions.
Although it is common for the heat to cause a feeling of sickness or discomfort for pregnant women, it is possible to guarantee a healthy pregnancy and, at the same time, enjoy the summer. There are ways of avoiding, to a large extent, the negative part of the hottest months of the year.
The specialist in gynaecology, Javier Sánchez underscores the main indications to ensure greater wellbeing during the pregnancy:
10 tips for a healthy pregnancy during the hot weather
Good hydration
1 of 10
Particularly during the last trimester of the pregnancy, women frequently experience sweating throughout the day and night. For this reason it is essential to remain hydrated, “trying to drink at least two litres of water per day to prevent dehydration and its possible consequences.” A good option is to always carry a bottle of water with you, in order to fight against dehydration.
Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun
2 of 10
It is important to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, particularly during the central hours of the day (between 10 am and 4 pm), and to adequately protect yourself from the sun. When you are in the open air, it is recommended to opt for shady spaces, use a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses or take cold showers that can help to lower the body temperature.
Skincare
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During pregnancy, the skin can become more sensitive and in order to take care of it, it is essential to use a sun cream with a high protection factor and re-apply it every two hours, particularly after swimming or if you are sweating.
Comfortable clothing
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When getting dressed, it is advisable to opt for comfort and avoid tight clothing, particularly on the legs, in order to not obstruct the venous return. “Clothing must be light, preferably made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen, along with comfortable footwear to encourage the circulation.”
Balanced diet
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A light diet, rich in seasonal fruit and vegetables, which provide water and essential minerals is advised. The consumption of salt should be reduced to prevent the retention of liquids, avoiding large or very greasy meals, along with dividing the intake over several meals per day.
Physical activity
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“Whenever there is no medical reason to the contrary, moderate exercise is highly beneficial during pregnancy.” However, during the summer period, it is positive to carry out gentle activities and choose the cooler times of day, such as walking first thing in the morning or at dusk, practicing yoga for pregnant women or swimming in well-maintained swimming pools.
Fatigue and tiredness
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“Whenever there is no medical reason to the contrary, moderate exercise is highly beneficial during pregnancy.” However, during the summer period, it is positive to carry out gentle activities and choose the cooler times of day, such as walking first thing in the morning or at dusk, practicing yoga for pregnant women or swimming in well-maintained swimming pools.
A good sleep routine
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Good rest must be guaranteed, frequently and in cool places. Keeping the bedroom ventilated, taking short naps and continuing a regular sleep routine can contribute to improving the rest during the summer holidays.
Recommended medical checkups
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Throughout all the stages of the pregnancy, it is essential to maintain a regular medical monitoring, “particularly for women with risk factors, such as hypertension, gestational diabetes or a history of premature childbirth in order to guarantee that everything is evolving normally.” Carrying out an updated medical register will help to detect any unusual change that could require attention.
Bathing on the beach and in swimming pools
10 of 10
Throughout all the stages of the pregnancy, it is essential to maintain a regular medical monitoring, “particularly for women with risk factors, such as hypertension, gestational diabetes or a history of premature childbirth in order to guarantee that everything is evolving normally.” Carrying out an updated medical register will help to detect any unusual change that could require attention.
