Top 10 Ways to Survive a Summer Pregnancy

Pregnancy is such a beautiful experience. Months of bonding with your little one, relaxing, and best of all, preparing for this great new change in your family’s life. Pregnancy is often one of the best moments in a mom’s life, but a summer pregnancy can be cruel. AlphaCord wants to help new moms maintain a happy, comfortable pregnancy in that brutal summer heat. 1. While many expectant moms like to remain independent during pregnancy, the best thing for a summer pregnancy is for a mom to relax and put her feet up. Allowing yourself to relax your muscles and move around less may help decrease chances of a premature labor. yoga 2. “The medical community used to suggest limiting salt (sodium chloride) during pregnancy because they thought it contributed to water retention and bloating. Now most experts believe that some increase in body fluids is necessary and normal during pregnancy, and that a moderate amount of sodium is actually beneficial because it can help maintain adequate fluid levels.” (Baby, 2015) 3. While we all may love our jewelry, swelling is a very common side effect of pregnancy. Taking off tight jewelry such as rings and bracelets can help keep you comfortable. 4. WATER. AGUA. EAU. It is in everyone’s best interest to drink lots of water. More importantly, it is best for pregnant women to maintain hydration in the heat. Water not only keeps you hydrated, but it also energizes the muscles and assists the kidneys in cleansing the toxins out of the body. 10505366_752271664835758_8343801195228963245_n 5. Make sure to keep a closet full of loose, thin clothing. Being comfortable is the main goal of a summer pregnancy. Wearing loose or maternity clothing will help an expectant mom maintain her comfort. Some top picks are:
    • Maxi dresses
    • Palazzo pants
    • Loose, flowing shirts
6. COOL showers- There is nothing more calming and cooling than taking a nice, cool shower. Aside from going swimming and/or turning on an air conditioner, the quickest way to cool down during a scorching hot summer day would be to hop in the shower and make the water as cool as you need to stop the heat from making you uncomfortable. shutterstock_257305057 7. Wake up early- It is common knowledge that the hottest time of day (especially in the summer) would be the afternoon. According to earthsky.org, the sun is highest at noon. This means that heat has arrived. One tip for expectant moms is to run errands as early in the morning as possible. Step out before the summer heat is at its peak for the day. Doing this will allow you to stay inside in the cool temperatures and avoid the heat. mommy_kiss 8. Feel free to sleep- When preparing for baby's arrival, how can you find time to sleep? There are so many things to prepare for; ie: daycare, nursery, baby proofing, shopping for baby's necessities, and all the while, still working. For some expecting moms, there's also taking care of the child(ren) already in the household. In between running errands, try to make time for a cat nap. Taking naps is always a relaxing practice. 9. Allow those around you to help you out as much as they want. Your body is busy 24/7 developing and taking care of the fetus inside. When you can rest...you should. So put down the grocery bags, the broom, and laundry basket, and let your loved ones chip in as they wish. shutterstock_128084966 10. LAUGH...remember that life is a journey. Enjoy every stage of your pregnancy whether this is baby #1, or baby #6. Bonding with the baby while still pregnant can be the most refreshing moments of your life. Besides, playing belly games will help you forget all about how hot it truly is. SOURCES http://www.babble.com/pregnancy/13-smart-tips-for-your-summer-pregnancy-survival-guide/ (babble,2015) http://www.babycenter.com/404_is-it-safe-to-eat-a-lot-of-salty-foods-during-pregnancy_2348.bc (baby, 2015) http://www.webmd.com/diet/6-reasons-to-drink-water?page=3 THE CONTENT OF THIS ARTICLE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. If you have a medical emergency or question, immediately call your doctor or dial 911 for assistance.