Pregnancy is a interesting and exciting journey, which can sometimes become uncomfortable for the expectant mother. In summers, in many pieces of the country temperatures take off, which can make some inconvenience a pregnant lady.
Someone says that when a lady is pregnant, her body goes through unique changes to accommodate the baby, and “some of these changes can cause discomfort to the pregnant mother. Increasing temperatures can only worsen the situation.”
Physiological changes that occur during pregnancy
- Nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy
- Indigestion, ‘gas’, bloating sensation and reduced appetite
- Increase in weight by 10-12 kg all through pregnancy
- Oedema — fluid collection in the feet and legs after the initial three months of pregnancy
- Shortness of breath because of the growing womb
- ‘Feeling hot’
The specialist says that in summers, particularly, pregnant women go through certain difficulties, adding that there are a few hints with which they can feel better.
1. Hydration: Drink at least 3 litres of water each day. Top it up with tender coconut and fresh fruit juices (avoid if you have gestational diabetes) with minimal or no sugar. Lacking hydration may prompt a heat stroke.
2. Diet: Remember to incorporate a lot of plenty of vegetables, greens, sprouted salads, fruits (especially watermelon) to your diet. Curd (live yogurt) and buttermilk are particularly cooling. Avoid excessive oil, ghee and masalas in food preparation and cut down on the salt intake.
3. Swimming/exercising: This is an great way of cooling and in the event that you approach a pool you should utilize it. Routine exercise should be performed either in the early mornings or evenings when the temperatures are lower.
4. Raised feet: Remember to hoist your feet by placing them on pillows or cushions as this reduces the water retention in your feet and legs.
5. Clothes and footwear: Wear free cotton clothes in white or pastel shades. Likewise, wear comfortable footwear to accommodate the swelling.
6. Shades/sunscreen/umbrella: Invest in a good pair of sunglasses and use sunscreen at whatever point you are out for longer periods. Convey an umbrella or wear a broad hat to protect yourself.
7. Sleep: Try to get a rest for at any rate 30 minutes in the early evening, since it is the hottest part of the day.
“See your doctor regularly, and remember to mention any unusual symptoms that you may have noticed. Visit the emergency department of your hospital if you experience excessive fatigue, a fast heartbeat, dizziness, vomiting or if you have stopped sweating — these may be symptoms of a heat stroke,” they cautions.