With summer right around the corner and temperatures already on the rise now seems like a good time to talk about beating the summer heat during pregnancy.  Most pregnant women will tell you that just being pregnant makes every thing feel hotter to begin with.  Even on a cool spring day (or a cold winter one) pregnancy often makes you feel like it is hot outside already.  Being pregnant in the summer can be very uncomfortable, especially if you are in the final months of your pregnancy.  Being uncomfortable already the added the hot summer heat to the mix will likely just make you feel down right miserable.  When I was pregnant with my daughter I spent my 5th – 7th months of my pregnancy battling the heat and humidity of a St. Louis summer.  It actually wasn’t as bad as some people had warned me it would be, but I definitely felt the heat more than usual.  I think the key to surviving the summer heat is to avoid spending too much time out in it and dressing to stay cool.

Surviving the heat of the summer while pregnant is possible.  All it takes is a little planning and some creativity.  Here are a few things you can do to survive the hot summer heat:

• Wear cool, breathable, comfortable clothing.  Buy clothing that is light-weight, loose and breathes well.
• Avoid spending a lot of time outside during the hottest part of the day.  Plan your errands and outdoor activities for the early morning or the evening when it is a little cooler.
• Stay hydrated.  Drink lots of water.  Take water with you when you go out.
• Don’t over do it.  It is important not to over do it while pregnant any way, but the heat makes it even more important to know your limits.
• Exercise is important during pregnancy but exercising outside during a hot summer day is probably not a good idea.  Consider keeping your exercising inside where it is cool, or in the water.
• Take the time to rest and put your feet up to avoid lower leg swelling.
• If you are over heated take a quick, cool shower and lay down for a few minutes too cool down and relax.

The most important thing is to do what you can to stay cool and don’t over do it.  Staying hydrated is super important.  Being pregnant puts you at an increased risk of over exposure illnesses such as heat exhaustion, dehydration and heat stroke.  Doing your best to stay cool and avoid spending too much time in the heat and sun will help you avoid these heat and sun related illness.  If you have any concerns be sure to discuss them with your doctor.

What did you do to keep cool during the hot summer months of your pregnancy?  Any tips for other moms-to-be?