In the event of a heatwave, here are some good tips if you are pregnant, to better cope with the intense heat.
Going through a period of heatwave is a test for the body, which becomes even more delicate for the future mothers. Between the heavy legs syndrome which becomes more pronounced, the slightest movement which turns into a challenge and nights torn apart by discomfort, the heat leaves no respite during pregnancy. To preserve your well-being and watch over your health when you are pregnant, it becomes essential to adapt your daily life through a few fundamental reflexes. Faced with the rising thermometer, the key lies in a simple routine: hydrate continuously, allow yourself total rest and protect yourself effectively from the sun.
Heatwave during pregnancy: what are the risks and dangers?
During periods of extreme heat, the major risk is dehydration, which can occur quickly and cause serious complications for both the mother and the fetus. Hyperthermia (heat stroke) also threatens the mother-to-be, manifesting itself in dizziness, low blood pressure or violent headaches. Additionally, extreme heat dilates blood vessels, significantly worsening circulatory disorders and swelling of the lower limbs. In the most severe cases, prolonged heat stress can impair placental functioning and cause premature uterine contractions.
What to do to cool off in a heatwave when you are pregnant?
To cope with the heatwave, certain actions do not tolerate any compromise. It is imperative drink between 1.5 and 2 liters of water per day, in small sips and at room temperature, without waiting until you are thirsty. The watchword at home is compartmentalization: keep windows and shutters strictly closed during the day, and hang damp sheets at night to cool the atmosphere. In terms of activity, switch to “minimum service” mode by canceling all non-essential travel between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. If you absolutely have to go out, cover your head with a hat, wear loose cotton clothing and systematically apply sunscreen with a factor of 50. Finally, to relieve your legs, raise the foot of your bed and don’t hesitate to wear your compression stockings, even if it requires effort in these temperatures. If you’re really too hot, there’s nothing stopping you from taking short lukewarm showers regularly. The effect doesn’t last very long, but it provides real comfort.
How to cope with the heat when you are pregnant?
During the hottest hours of the day, treat yourself without feeling guilty a restorative napthinking carefully about slightly elevate your legs to promote good blood circulation. It’s a safe bet that this heat will exhaust you, so don’t assume your strength and listen to your body. A nap is ideal for releasing body tension and improving your morale! At home, ventilate only at dawn and late evening. Then close the shutters and windows. Fans blow hot air and are therefore ineffective in cooling the atmosphere, but if you put bottles of ice water right in front, you might well benefit from a little coolness, unless you have air conditioning. At night, if you leave the windows open, remember to hang damp sheets to curtain rods, to get fresh air.
Getting dressed during pregnancy can be a real ordeal and the phenomenon is even worse when it’s very hot. The priority should be to choose clothes in which you feel comfortable. Favor them light dresses and breathable materials. At home, stay barefoot as much as possible and spend the day in your underwear if you like!
If you still decide to venture outside, avoid the hottest hours and favor walks in the morning or from 7 p.m. Take a bottle of water, cover your head with a wide-brimmed hat and remember to apply factor 50 sunscreen on your face and all parts of the body exposed to the sun, even if it’s just a walk in the city! If you can, do not hesitate to postpone your medical appointments which are not urgent.
Many pregnant women have circulatory problems during pregnancy. Here are our tips to help you: elevate your legs as soon as possible; do regular foot baths; wear your compression stockings (yes, even if it’s hot); ask the future dad to massage your legs, from bottom to top to activate circulation
