It’s Getting Hot Out Here: A Pregnant Woman’s Directory For Staying Cool When It’s Hot

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By Mia Bolaris-Forget

From what my girlfriends tell me, pregnancy is a “blessing” for ladies who (previously) had always shivered their timbers due to always being cold. And, for those “hot-blooded” ladies carrying during the summer can present some heated challenges and situations. In fact, for some the summer humidity and heat may be overwhelmingly uncomfortable during pregnancy.

But, experts suggest that moms-to-be don’t necessarily or always have to “sweat it” during the sweltering heat, in fact, they suggest that with the proper preparation, you can even keep your cool.

Cool Moves:

· Make sure you get outdoor tasks out of the way first thing in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is lower and temperatures not quite as hot.

· Stay indoors where it’s cool in extreme heat reaching over 90 degrees Fahrenheit. And, make sure you stay near a fan or air conditioner. If you don’t have one at home, head to the mall, a bookstore, or a friend’s house with AC.

· Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of (cold) fluids, primarily water or sports drinks with electrolytes that can help you replace lost salt and retain fluid.

· Indulge in some smooth summer mocktails like a Pina Colada Smoothie or a Strawberry-banana “daiquiri”

· Cool off by spritzing yourself with some mist that you should keep handy at all times.

· Lather up with sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15 or greater at least 20 minutes before heading out in the sun. And, be generous about reapplying throughout the day.

· Hope in the show (to cool off) as often as necessary.

· Elevate your legs and feet to keep them from swelling.

· Reduce your salt intake significantly to help alleviate and combat water retention.

· Rest, relax, and nap as often as possible.

· Ask for assistance with daily duties or errands if you too uncomfortable, awkward, winded, or tired.

· Take caution when it comes to common summer foods such as barbequed items, potato salad, macaroni salad, and coleslaw that can go bad if left out in the sun, and upset your stomach.

· Lighten you load, and allow yourself some extra time for things you “have” to do, and for some extra time for you.

The Skinny On Summer Skin Care:

Women need to be especially vigilant during the summer when it comes to taking care of their skin, as the dry, hot weather and intense sunlight make it more susceptible to damage.

Spotty, Patchy Skin:

Pregnancy causes an increase in melanin, a natural substance that’s noted for brown colored spots on ladies foreheads, cheeks, upper chest and above the upper lip. This influx in hormone level is especially prevalent in brunettes and darker skinned women.

The best prevention is keeping your face and upper chest away from tanning lamps and excessive sunlight.

Protection can be accomplished by applying sunscreen several times a day and covering your susceptible areas by wearing a wide-brimmed hat that covers your face and neck.

Itchy Dry Skin:

Expectant moms often experience stretched skin caused by weight gain that makes the skin dry or drier than usual. Now add summer heat which also saps your body of moisture and ladies can be quite uncomfortable.

Prevent itchiness by investing in some quality (natural) moisturizing bath and shower products and lathering up with lotion immediately after. Take precautions to protect your skin by soothing itchy skin by soaking in a warm bath with oatmeal, or ask your doctor about some over-the-counter itch cream.

Heat Rash:

This common condition is often caused by a combination of heat and sweat. And, it usually occurs in regions (such as inner thighs or beneath your breasts) were skin surfaces to touch or rub together.

You can prevent this uncomfortable condition by patting the area between the skin folds immediately after a bath or shower, ensuring they are thoroughly dry. It’s also a good idea to wear lighter fabrics such as cotton that won’t cling to or irritate your body.

You can take precautions to protect your skin by asking your doctor about prescribing a medicated lotion or powder to treat the area as it causes you discomfort or pain.

Summer Style:

Experts advise summer moms-to-be to keep cool by dressing and looking summer cool and chic

· Enhance your newfound cleavage with empire-waisted tops.

· Stay a step ahead in trendy summer flip-flops.

· Go with the flow of summer peasant skirts in light colors and fabrics.

· Opt for fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk.

· Dress down by dressing in matte jersey tank dresses on super humid days.

· Look for garments that stretch, move, and “breath” with your expanding belly

· Add a hint of color (via accessories) to monochromatic outfits (that keep you looking slim and sensational)

· Basque in your beauty and in the sun by hitting the beach in some of the season’s hottest maternity beachwear.