Pregnancy can be a roller coaster ride for many women. While the raging hormones are to be blamed for all the problems that pregnant women face, pregnancy could be particularly difficult for those who are pregnant or ready-to-deliver in the hot and humid summer months.
Indian summer is particularly very hot and some parts of the country could see temperatures as high as 40-45 degrees in the summer. If you happen to be in Orissa or Rajasthan, which has been reeling under a massive heat wave this summer, you have to be extra cautious and take precautions to have a problem-free pregnancy.
If you are unaware of the things that you must do to beat the heat, fret not. Theindusparent caught up with Dr Ragini Agrawal, Gynaecologist and Clinical Director of W- Hospital by Pratiksha, Gurgaon, to discuss the precautions pregnant women must take to have a hassle-free summer pregnancy.
"Summer is a trying time for a pregnant woman as pregnancy causes lots of changes in body. Increasing weight, changes in musculoskeletal system causes lots of discomfort. Many patients feel very hot due to increased hormones circulating in body. Immunity level of pregnant women also decreases," says Dr Agrawal.
Dr Agrawal gives the following tips for a smooth “summer” pregnancy
- Always wear loose fitting, cotton clothes and undergarments. As your breasts undergo a lot of change during pregnancy, they could be particularly under stress if you happen to wear an ill fitted, nylon or latex bra.
- Keep yourself hydrated as high temperatures can drain you out. If you happen to be using air conditioners and coolers, make sure you have a lot of water as they can have a drying effect on body.
- While it is advisable to do mild exercises during pregnancy such as walking, make sure you do so during the morning or evenings. Avoid going out during peak time to avoid the heat and humidity.
- Diet plays a key role in the summer as some foods can make you feel hot and sweaty. Eat foods that are easily digestible, fresh and preferably home-cooked. Have frequent, small meals to prevent indigestion, bloating and other digestive problems.
- Fluid intake should also be watched out for. Have 10-12 glass of water every day. You can also have coconut water, lassi, buttermilk and other such natural drinks to replenish lost body fluids..
- Avoid coffee, tea, mock tails and aerated cold drinks such coke, pepsi. It is better to take natural drinks.
- It is mandatory to check the expiry/quality of non-seasonal food items and meat products as they can be dangerous to ingest them.
- If you happen to suffer from diarrhoea or vomiting due to the heat wave or humidity, seek early treatment to get cured on time.
Continue reading to know more about the precautions you must take!
9. Try and stay at a cool place as often as you can.
10. Although swimming is a good exercise but be sure of the hygiene of the pool. Otherwise, it is good to walk in shade and do light exercises such as yoga and walking in a cool atmosphere
Summer diseases to watch out for
“Most problems that women face during the summers are mainly ingestion of stale food which can lead to diarrhea, vomiting. Another big summer issue is dehydration due to the heat and humidity. As I have mentioned above, pregnant women feel hotter due to the circulating hormones,” says Dr Agrawal.
The best ways to ensure that you stay away from summer illnesses is by ensuring that you are properly hydrated and eat light, fresh food. Avoid heat to prevent heat strokes.
“Skin problems such as itching, dry skin, prickly heat and fungal infections are also common in pregnant women during the summer months,” says Dr Agrawal.
To beat them it is advisable to wear cotton clothes and stay in a cool atmosphere. Moisturise your skin effectively to beat dryness and use a proper sunscreen. "If you do not use a sunscreen, use calamine lotion mixed with a good moisturiser on the face to avoid pigmentation and sunburn," adds Dr Agrawal.
“Besides, increase your fluid intake to stay healthy during summers. It is better to consult a physician early if you face any of the above or other issues. Never use over-the-counter products by yourself as many chemicals get absorbed by the skin and have a bad effect on the growing foetus,” she sums up.
If you have any insights, questions or comments regarding the article, please share them in our Comment box below. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Google+ and Twitter to stay up-to-date on the latest from theIndusparent.com
