If you're pregnant, summer fun could come with added risks. Cooling down while you're pregnant isn't always easy.
Heat, dehydration and even air quality pose risks that can lead to serious pregnancy complications, such as:
• Preterm birth.
• Birth defects.
• Stillbirth.
• Low birth weight.
• Early labor.
During pregnancy, high heat increases your chances of having elevated blood pressure as well. Some people even experience more heart and cardiovascular stress.
If you're pregnant, you're at higher risk for heat illnesses such as heatstroke and heat exhaustion. When the temperature rises, your body works hard to cool itself—and, now, your baby too.
Plus, it's easier to become dehydrated while you're pregnant. Nausea, vomiting and common pregnancy medications can cause you to lose fluids. That makes it harder for you to sweat, so your body temperature rises.
To help keep yourself and your baby healthy during the summer, start with these hot tips:
• Stay hydrated! Drink a lot of water and choose hydrating foods, like fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes.
• Turn on the air conditioner or spend time somewhere that's air-conditioned.
• Avoid strenuous exercise in the heat.
• Cool your skin with ice or by soaking in cold bathwater.
• Wear sunscreen when you go outside.
• Ask your doctor about the best ways to replace salt and minerals lost from sweating.
As an added precaution, get to know the signs of heat illness so that you can recognize it in yourself and others.
Sources: American Heart Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency