Some pregnant women find hot weather challenging. During pregnancy, the core body temperature rises, which can make a person more sensitive to heat. Also, carrying a baby means you’re carrying extra weight, which can be particularly draining in summer.
It’s always advisable for pregnant women to stay cool and avoid becoming dehydrated, especially in a heatwave.
Here are simple-but-effective precautions you can take:
• Take regular breaks in a cool/airconditioned room and have a sit down with your feet up.
• Place a damp flannel on your head or neck.
• Take a cooling shower or bath.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Don’t go out during the hottest part of the day.
It’s good to be aware of signs that you might be overheating. These include:
• warm or clammy skin
• headache
• rapid breathing or shortness of breath
• dizziness
• confusion
• muscle cramps
• nausea.
If you experience any of these symptoms, stop whatever you’re doing and rest, preferably somewhere cool. If you still don’t feel well after around 30 minutes, seek medical help.
Also remember to avoid soft serve ice creams and ice cream made with raw eggs, tempting as they may be on a hot summer day, because of the risk of listeria.
