Tips for keeping cool when expecting.

 Summer has finally arrived with the smell of BBQ’s in the air, we all want to make the most of those sunny long days whilst keeping bump and yourself safe.

In pregnancy, your core body temperature is a bit higher than normal owing due to combination of hormonal changes, increased blood flow and the heat produced by the placenta. Here are some of our top tips to help you through the summer months.

1. Look after swollen feet and hands

Hot weather can cause your hands and feet to swell, so consider removing rings and investing in a pair of shoes a size larger than you would normally wear. Minimise salt intake, too, because excess salt encourages water retention in the body. Keep your feet up as much as you can, and moisturise swollen areas frequently to make them feel more comfortable.

2. Choose natural fabrics for night time

Pregnant women often suffer from night sweats. Try to use a pillow made of feather or down rather than synthetic materials, and ensure nightwear is made of breathable cotton or linen.

If your struggling to get enough sleep at night maybe try having a afternoon nap. Heat can be draining, and studies suggest that mums-to-be need one to two more hours sleep than usual, particularly in the first trimester.

3. Wear cool cotton underwear

Some mums-to-be swear by men’s boxer shorts, so it could be time to raid your partner’s underwear drawer. Boxers on girls are on-trend, so you’ll soon be cool in every sense of the word!

4. Stay hydrated

During hot weather you should be drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty before reaching for a drink: by the time your body registers thirst you are already suffering from the effects of dehydration. So, take a bottle of water with you everywhere you go – especially if you are traveling on public transport, where you can quickly become overheated.

5. Avoid ice-cold baths

Don’t go mad and jump in an ice-cold bath when you want to cool down. When you’re feeling hot and sticky opt for lukewarm showers, as exposure to extreme cold will constrict the blood vessels and send signals to the body to retain heat.

6. Exercise in water

Try signing up for an aqua-natal exercise class at your local swimming pool – you’ll feel so virtuous afterwards that you’ll probably deserve that extra ice cream! Aquatic Harmony do all photography by Fiona clients a discount ask for more information.

7. Stay in the shade

Many women find that their skin is more sensitive to sun during pregnancy, so you need to be even more careful than normal. Remember to apply suncream and wear a hat when going out in the sun.

8. Be aware of BBQ food safety

Summer is BBQ season, and the menu typically consists of burnt offerings, still raw to the middle! Make sure all food is cooked through thoroughly, and avoid anything that has been left standing around for any period of time. Check that all mayonnaise is made with pasteurised eggs and always wash fruit and veg.

9. Eat cooling foods

Enjoy light summer salads as these will help keep you cool. Foods with high water content are great for this.

Comment below with how your staying cool during this heat, we would love to read your stories.

Fiona X

Maternity photographer, Bristol maternity Photographer, bump to baby because they will never be that small again call us 07828877598 or email photographybyfiona@live.co.uk