Pregnant in Summer

How to get through summer more comfortably

Summer has arrived again, a lovely time of year that can be tricky if you’re pregnant right now. A warm summer day just feels a bit different with a growing bump. While others are enjoying 28 degrees and plenty of sunshine, you might be more preoccupied with swollen feet, sleepless nights and searching for ways to cool down. And did you know that with these high temperatures, you now need to be extra careful? Our midwives explain in this blog what you can do to get through the warm days comfortably and healthily during your pregnancy.

Why do you feel so hot when you’re pregnant?

Many pregnant women notice early in pregnancy that they feel warm more quickly. This is because your body produces extra blood, combined with the influence of pregnancy hormones. As a result, you feel warmer as a pregnant woman, even in winter. In summer you may sweat more, get dizzy more easily and have less energy than usual. Your body is constantly working to keep both your temperature and your baby’s temperature stable. That’s why the heat simply costs you more energy than normal right now.

What to do in hot weather when you’re pregnant?

The most important tip: listen to your body. Do you notice that you’re getting tired, feeling light-headed, or becoming short of breath more quickly? Then take a rest.

And follow these tips too:

• Drink enough water spread throughout the day, at least around 2 litres.
• Plan exercise for early morning or later in the evening.
• Stay in the shade as much as possible between 12pm and 3pm.
• Regularly elevate your legs if you’re troubled by swollen feet or fluid retention in your legs.
• Take a lukewarm shower or use a foot bath to cool down.
• Keep your bedroom cool with closed curtains and ventilation.
• Opt for short cooling-down moments throughout the day rather than one big cool-down.

What clothing is comfortable during a summer pregnancy?

Just like in summers when you’re not pregnant, clothing made from natural materials is the most comfortable now too. Choose cotton, linen or bamboo, as these fabrics breathe better and release heat more easily. Loose-fitting dresses, airy trousers with a soft waistband and oversized blouses are more comfortable than tight clothing. Light colours are also nice on warm days. Dark fabrics absorb more heat, causing your body to warm up faster. A lovely linen set or a flowing summer dress can be a real godsend on warm days.

Are you allowed in the sun when you’re pregnant?

Yes, you can simply enjoy the sun when you’re pregnant. But it is wise to be mindful of the heat and UV radiation. Your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy, which means you can burn more quickly and are more prone to pigmentation spots or the notorious pregnancy mask. So apply sunscreen regularly with at least factor 30, and consider wearing a hat or cap if you’re outside for longer periods. Also avoid being in full sun for hours on end. The sun isn’t harmful to your baby as such, but you are at somewhat greater risk of overheating and dehydration right now.

Does your baby respond to heat?

You may have already noticed: on warm days your baby suddenly seems extra active in your belly. This can have various causes, such as you resting a bit more and therefore being more alert to your baby’s movements. But know that a healthy baby doesn’t overheat in the womb. Your body regulates the temperature around your baby very effectively. It is important, though, to keep drinking enough and to seek out cooler spots where possible, to prevent yourself from becoming dehydrated or overheated.

Pregnant during a heatwave: extra caution needed!

At temperatures above 30 degrees, it costs your body even more effort to cool down. During a heatwave in particular, it’s therefore smart to move appointments, errands or exercise as much as possible to the early morning. Recent Dutch studies1 also show that prolonged heat is associated with an increased risk of premature birth and lower birth weight. This doesn’t mean every warm day is immediately dangerous. It does show how important sufficient rest, cooling down and hydration are during extremely hot periods.

Symptoms caused by summer heat?

Are you experiencing one or more of the following symptoms? Contact your midwife straight away!

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Urinating less than normal
• Feeling unwell

It doesn’t necessarily mean anything, but during summer temperatures it’s good to be extra alert.

Summer holidays when you’re pregnant

Good news: most women can simply go on a lovely holiday during their pregnancy too. Just choose your destination thoughtfully. A city trip to a hot city is less pleasant right now than a stay by the sea or a holiday home with shade and a pool to cool off in. Also make sure you schedule enough rest moments throughout the day, drink extra water, and check in advance where medical care is available at your destination. And if you’re unsure whether your condition is suitable for a holiday, discuss it with your midwife.

Frequently asked questions about being pregnant in summer

Can you be in the sun when you’re pregnant?

Yes, that’s fine, but don’t stay in it too long. Protect your skin and make sure to cool down. This helps prevent your body from overheating.

Why do you feel so hot when you’re pregnant?

Due to hormonal changes, a higher blood volume and a more active metabolism, your body can be up to half a degree warmer during your pregnancy.

How can you cool down when you’re pregnant?

Drink enough water, take a lukewarm shower, use a foot bath, wear airy clothing, get enough rest and avoid the hottest hours of the day.

Is heat a risk factor for premature birth?

Research shows that prolonged exposure to high temperatures is associated with an increased risk of premature birth. So take extra good care of yourself during heatwaves.

Can you still go on holiday in summer when you’re pregnant?

Yes, usually you can. Choose a destination where you can find enough rest and coolness, always drink extra water, and if in doubt, discuss it with your midwife.

Enjoying the summer and your pregnancy

Being pregnant during summer requires a few extra adjustments, but you can still enjoy the lovely weather. Listen carefully to your body, get enough rest, drink extra water and be smart about the heat. Do you have questions about this, are you worried about heat-related symptoms, or would you like to know what’s wise in your situation? Ask your midwife in Amsterdam-Zuid.