Disclosure :: this post is sponsored by Touro Infirmary.
Tips for Staying Cool While Pregnant
Summer in New Orleans means one thing – unescapable smoldering heat. Hot humid summer days in New Orleans offer little comfort when you are pregnant and wondering how you will survive in the high temperatures, humidity, and hot sun. When you’re pregnant your body temperature is naturally a little higher than normal, so adding heat and humidity is bound to make anyone feel a bit miserable and uncomfortable. Unfortunately, there is no way to escape the heat but luckily, Touro OB/GYN, Dr. Brianne Anderson, has some tips to keep you cool while pregnant!
- Stay hydrated. Your body loses a lot of fluid when you sweat, and it is a lot easier to become dehydrated and overheated in hot temperatures. Symptoms of dehydration include warm skin, headache, dizziness, weakness, muscle cramps and nausea. Particularly for pregnant women, it can cause uterine contractions. Drink at least eight 10 oz. glasses of water a day, more if it’s very hot or you’re sweating a lot. It’s a good idea to grab a bottle or two if you plan to be out for a bit. In addition to water, orange juice, milk, and sports drinks are great additions as they help replace the electrolytes that are being sweated away.
- Dress for the heat. Wear loose, breathable, light-colored clothing. Wearing breathable fabrics will help keep you cool while also helping prevent heat rashes from developing under your breast and abdomen, a common problem for pregnant women. Another stylish option to also help protect yourself from the heat is to accessorize with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglass to cover your face. A handheld fan is another great option to keep in your purse.
- Hit the pool. Not only does swimming cool you off, it also helps to take some of the weight and pressure off your sciatic nerve. Swimming also offers a gently whole-body workout while increasing circulation, providing relief from swelling, and minimizing stress. Don’t have a pool at home? Be sure to check out the different community hotel pools around the region – day passes for both are usually available. Community pools are a great option for families looking for a way to cool off. Some community pools also offer kids swimming lessons!
- Eat light. Since the body produces more heat when it’s taking in warm food or drink, it is best to opt for cooler alternatives. The best foods to consume on hot days are cool, light, and easy on the stomach. Chilled fruit and crisp salads are great options. Be creative with your food and select the cool alternative to your favorite warm treats.
- Limit your exposure to heat. Stay inside as much as you can during the hot summer months. If you like to take walks or enjoy some pool time, it is best to do so either in the morning or evening and avoid the heat of the day – noon until 6:00 p.m. If you exercise, exercise at the cooler times of day and avoid exercising to the point overheating.
- Lather the sunscreen. It is necessary to protect your skin with sunscreen that has an SPF of 15 or greater at least 30 minutes before going outside and be sure to reapply as often as possible.
Taking these few simple tricks into consideration can help you feel better, have more energy, handle the heat and help you enjoy your summertime pregnancy.
For more information or to find an OB/GYN in your neighborhood, visit Touro.com.
About Dr. Anderson
Dr. Brianne Anderson specializes in OB/GYN at Crescent City Physicians, Inc., a subsidiary of Touro Infirmary. After earning her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Dr. Anderson completed residency at University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Mississppi. Dr. Anderson is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Anderson values the physician/patient relationship because she strives to understand what is important to her patients and become a confidant to guide them through varying stages of life.
