I wish I was sitting on this beach, soaking up the sun and sipping on pina coladas. Instead I’m here, sweating through ridiculously hot, 100-degree days.
I’m pretty sure that I picked the worst summer to be pregnant. Combine the record-high temperatures with the fact that my A/C decided to stop working, it’s amazing that I haven’t ripped someone’s head off. Although, my husband may disagree, he has come all too close to the fury! I must add, if I were in my “normal” non-pregnant state I would be loving this weather! However, the added heat, hormones, swollen feet and extra LBS have made me a little more, how do you say…..irriatable.
Summer is supposed to be the time when the living is easy. It’s a time to relax and soak up the sun, but if you’re pregnant, chances are that the living is anything but easy. Follow these five fabulous tips and your summer pregnancy will be much more enjoyable!
1. Hot Mama
Pregnant women are notorious for always feeling hot, and when the temperature outside starts to rise, it can be a unbearable when you’re trying to keep cool for two. Try staying indoors from noon until about 4:30. Keep the A/C pumping and avoid laborious tasks. Run errands or take your outside time in the morning or evening. Also make sure to check the weather—temperatures above 80 degrees can be dangerous for pregnant women.
2. Beach Babe
While you may not want to be bikini-clad when pregnant, going for a light dip in the pool is exactly what you need! You are able to cool off, plus the water can take away all that pressure (oh the pressure!) from the extra weight. Swimming is one of the best exercises for pregnant women because it is low impact and the risk of injury is minimal. Check with your doctor before heading out on a boat or to the beach, lake, or river.
3. So Salty
Limited salty foods when pregnant. Salt can also contribute to excessive swelling (ahem, can you say cankles? I sure can!) and can cause dehydration. Enjoy your favorite summer treats like popsicles and ice cream—they’ll help you stay cool! And of course, drink lots of ice water!
4. Cat Naps
A little nap here and there is just what the doctor ordered. Lying down a few times throughout the day will help you stay feeling as energetic as possible since the summer heat will steal most of that from you.
5. Little Black White Dress
Summer dresses are especially for pregnant women. Loose-fitting, lightweight fabrics allow you to be more comfortable and stay cool and breezy. Not to mention, summer dresses can help hide any unexpected curves that come with pregnancy. Avoid heavy fabrics and dark colors—stick with cotton and linen in white or pastel hues.
And for all you hot pregnant mamas out there, I’m sending cool breezy thoughts your way. Allow me to wish you all the best of luck surviving the hottest two months of the year, believe me, we’re going to need it!
