If you’re pregnant in the summer, like I was when I carried my daughter Lizzie, and are struggling to cope with the current warm weather conditions, this week’s blog is for you! I’m sharing my top tips on how to stay cool when pregnant in the summer, which I hope you’ll find useful.
The challenge of a summer pregnancy
In the final months of pregnancy, you are likely to be a vision of health. And probably gets lots of compliments from friends and family about your pregnancy ‘glow’. But inside, you may be feeling far from attractive!
I know this from experience. And it’s what my pregnant clients tell me when they come to me for their maternity photoshoots. In the final weeks of their pregnancies, women like you often feel heavy, tired and exhausted. And warmer conditions, in the summer months, only make it even more difficult to remain comfortable. Knowing how to stay cool when pregnant is a common challenge!
You’re naturally hotter than normal when you’re pregnant anyway thanks to all the extra blood circulating around your system. And you’re carrying the extra weight of a growing baby which is undeniably tough work!
Yep, being pregnant in the summer months can be tough. So I do feel for you pregnant ladies!
How to stay cool when pregnant in the summer
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Avoid being in the direct sunlight
Sit under a parasol if out in the garden or on the beach. Sitting in the shade will help you to keep your cool.
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Venture outside only in the mornings or late afternoons
Avoid the 11am-3pm window when the sun is at its strongest if you can. I love venturing out with my maternity clients in the early evening to capture portraits in the ‘golden hours’ before sunset (see some examples in my maternity gallery here) – this is a great time of the day to be outdoors. When indoors, open the windows and close the curtains to prevent the rooms from getting too warm.
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Listen to your body
When in the sun, keep strenuous activities to a minimum. Light walking is fine but listen to your body. If you need to, stop and rest regularly. Put your feet up whenever you can to minimise swelling, and take short naps if you get the opportunity.
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Use fans or water sprays to keep cool
These are really handy since they fit in your handbag and can be used wherever you are – whether in the car, at home or out and about. Use in conjunction with the air conditioning system in your car if you’re out on the road or find yourself stuck in traffic. I know that lots of mums-to-be are at work, so fingers crossed you have air con in the office! If not, ask for a fan.
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Take a dip!
Better still, dip your feet in a paddling pool or the sea. Or run your wrists under a cold tap for instant refreshment! I had terribly swollen feet in the last couple of months of pregnancy and the only thing that fitted on my feet were flipflops. I worked in an office at the time so no heels for me!
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Stay hydrated
You need to drink more water when pregnant anyway, but this is even more important when it’s hot outside. Aim to drink a glass of water every hour to keep your fluid levels topped up and your body temperature regulated. Not drinking enough water isn’t good for you or the baby, and can leave you feeling dizzy and tired. Get refreshment from water-based ice lollies and get creative with fresh smoothies and alcohol-free ‘mocktails’, if you are bored of drinking water!
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Wear light cotton layers
I’d recommend light-coloured cotton or linen fabrics and a large-rimmed hat in the sun. Maxi dresses cover a multitude of sins and look stylish at the same time. And if you are prepared to strip down to a maternity swimming costume, just keep covered up with a sarong to minimise the amount of skin that is exposed to the direct sunlight.
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Keep the suncream topped up
This goes without saying but always use a suncream that is at least SPF15. And don’t miss those easy-to-forget areas such as the tops of your feet, ears and the backs of your hands.
9. Lay down and put your feet up!
Honestly, this is my top tip. If all of the above don’t help, simply try to rest. Nesting is overrated! You need to rest to prepare for the big event, so stop cleaning the house and put your feet up!
Those are my tips on how to stay cool when pregnant. What are yours?
Please do share your best tips on how to stay cool when pregnant in the summer in the comments below.
And if you’re in the final stages of your pregnancy and would like to consider a maternity photoshoot with me – either in my photography studio or on-location at either your favourite park, woodland or on the beach, contact me today to book.
I’m available on 07749 270431 or please complete this contact form.
Karen x
