Tips for a cooler pregnancy this summer

Pregnancy is a joyous experience and a highly anticipated one for every woman. It is a unique physiological condition during which the body undergoes enormous changes in order to accommodate the growing baby.However, it's also something which comes along with its own share of changes, which aren't always pleasant. Handling a pregnancy in the summer season, can be quite cumbersome. Some of these changes can cause discomfort to the pregnant mother and increasing temperatures can only worsen the situation. We highlight some of the changes only pregnant women can relate to:

-Nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy

-Indigestion, “gas”, bloating sensation and reduced appetite

-Increase in weight by 10-12 kgs throughout pregnancy

-Oedema – fluid collection in the feet and legs after the first 3 months of pregnancy -Shortness of breath – due to the growing womb

-Feeling hot

Challenges faced by pregnant women in the summer season

Nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy
This is a normal phenomenon faced by 60-70% of pregnant women.Excessive vomiting can lead to dehydration and weakness requiring admission to hospital which can be made worse in the summer months.

Indigestion, “gas”, bloating sensation and reduced appetite
The changes that take place in pregnancy contribute to slow movement of the food through the food pipe, stomach and gut. There is also relaxation of the gut muscles and sphincters which cause a regurgitation of acid and food, worsening heartburn. The growing pregnancy presses upwards on the stomach and worsens the discomfort.

Oedema

Fluid collection in the feet and legs occurs after the first 3 months of pregnancy. About 60% of normal pregnant women have swelling of the feet and legs. This can get worse and cause discomfort in hot weather. However, remember that excessive swelling or sudden swelling of the feet, legs, fingers and face may be a sign of high blood pressure in pregnancy. So, it is advisable to see your doctor if the swelling is disproportionate or does not go down with rest.

Shortness of breath – due to the growing womb
The growing uterus compresses on the lungs and causes shortness of breath. During hot temperatures this can increase the sense of “suffocation” felt by the woman, making them breathless especially when lying down

“Feeling hot”
Some pregnant women complain of feeling hot and sweaty most of the time. This could be because pregnant women have1-1.5 liters of extra blood in their body, compared to their non pregnant counterparts. It could also be due to their metabolism being higher.

Tips to beat the heat

A Hot summer should not spoil your pregnancy. Being sensible and following a few simple measures are the key to coping with the heat and staying healthy and safe.

Hydration: Drink at least 3 liters of water per day. Top up with tender coconut and fresh fruit juices(avoid if you have gestational diabetes) with minimal or no sugar. Inadequate hydration may lead to a heat stroke.

Diet:Remember to include plenty of vegetables, greens, sprouted salads, fruits – especially water melon in your diet. Curd (live yoghurt) and buttermilk are especially cooling. Avoid excessive oil, ghee and masalas in food preparation and cut down on the salt intake.

Swimming/Exercise:This is a great way of cooling off and if you have access to a pool you must make use of it. Routine exercise must be performed either in the early mornings or evenings when the temperatures are lower.

Elevated feet: Remember to elevate your feet by placing them on a couple of pillows or cushions as this reduces the water retention in your feet and legs.

Clothes and foot wear: Wear loose cotton clothes in white or pastel shades. Also wear comfortable foot wear to accommodate the swelling of the feet.

Sun glasses/Sun screen/Umbrella:Invest in good pair of sun glasses and use sun screen whenever you are out in the sun for longer periods. Carry an umbrella or wear a broad hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Sleep: Try to get a nap for at least 30 minutes in the afternoon since it is the hottest part of the day.

See your doctor regularly as scheduled and remember to mention any unusual symptoms that you may have noticed.

Attend the emergency department of your hospital (or the nearest hospital) if you notice excessive fatigue, a fast heartbeat, dizziness, vomitingor if you have stopped sweating – these may be symptoms of a heat stroke.

The article has been authored by Dr Prathima Reddy MBBS, MRCOG (London), FRCOG (London), FACOG (USA) Director, Senior Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Fortis La Femme Hospital, Richmond Road, Bangalore.