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New Parent News
Summer Safety for Pregnant Women
By Jennifer Howard for the Times Herald Record June 20, 2007
The heat and humidity of the summer months can cause discomfort for many people, but pregnant women may find it particularly challenging to stay comfortable as the mercury rises.
It is completely normal for pregnant women to tire more easily than usual, and ordinary, daily tasks may become harder, especially as they progress into their third trimester. As the baby grows, she begins to push on Mom’s diaphragm, making breathing increasingly difficult because the lungs can not expand to take in as much air as usual. The additional weight gained during pregnancy causes pregnant women to tire more easily and increases the risks for dehydration, swelling and hyperthermia (overheating).
Here are some tips:
- Watch local news and weather channels to check AIR QUALITY WARNINGS. Poor air quality can make breathing more difficult.
- Limit outdoor physical activity to the morning or evening when the temperature is cooler.
- Minimize sun exposure during the hours of 10am – 4pm, when it is the most intense. During these hours, try to stay indoors or in the shade.
- Wear light colored, natural fabrics to help stay cool.
- Drink plenty of cool fluids (water is best) throughout the day in order to stay hydrated.
- Go swimming or take a cool shower to lower your body temperature.
- Combat swelling by keeping the feet elevated when sitting or lying down. Avoid standing for long periods of time and minimize salt intake.
- Take naps when feeling tired – everyone feels better when well-rested.
- Wear sunscreen! Hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy increase the risk for sunburn.
Even if you follow these tips, you may find that you are too tired to keep up with your normal routine. Ask for help when you need it!!
In addition to staying cool and rested during the summer, there are some other issues that pregnant women should keep in mind during the summer months.
- While swimming in chlorine treated water is safe for pregnant women, SOAKING IN HOT TUBS IS NOT RECOMMENDED! Water above 102 degrees Fahrenheit can raise the body temperature to an unsafe level for the developing baby, especially during the first few months of pregnancy.
- NEVER EAT FOOD THAT HAS BEEN SITTING OUT! The warmer temperatures increase bacteria growth and the risk for food poisoning, which can be damaging to the fetus. Ensure that all meats cooked on the grill have been heated to a safe temperature and that foods are stored properly to minimize the risk.
- NEVER TAKE OVER THE COUNTER ALLERGY MEDICATIONS WITHOUT CONSULTING YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER. Pregnant women should always speak with their physician before taking any medications to discuss the potential for risk to the developing baby.
- AVOID USING BUG SPRAY WITH DEET. The chemical diethyltoluamide (DEET), found in many insect repellants, can be hazardous to the baby. If you are concerned about the risk for Lyme’s Disease and/or West Nile Virus, speak with your health care provider or local health department about safer alternatives, such as citronella. Applying the repellant to your clothes instead of directly on your skin can also minimize the risks.
Jennifer Howard, MA, is program coordinator for Maternal-Infant Services Network (MISN) of Orange, Sullivan and Ulster Counties, a not-for-profit organization that coordinates health and human services for pregnant women and children. Visit our website at www.misn-ny.org for more information.
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