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The heatwaves and pregnancy: the care you should take

Pregnant women should take special care in the face of the heatwaves that are occurring in different parts of the world. We spoke with an expert....
Author: Patricia Alegsa
13-06-2024 12:34







  1. Heat and Pregnancy: A Dangerous Combination
  2. Permanent damages? Yes, it's possible
  3. When going out is unavoidable...


With global warming bringing us more and more days of "What a heat, what a heat, what a heat I have!", heatwaves have become an unwelcome guest. And if you are expecting a baby, those high temperatures can be not only uncomfortable, but also dangerous.

Let's think about this together, what makes heat a nightmare for future moms? Surely it's not just because of long sleeves and maternity pants.




Heat and Pregnancy: A Dangerous Combination




When temperatures rise, the internal thermostat of a pregnant woman rises as well. It's a bit like carrying a portable heater that turns up to the max every time the sun comes out. Dr. Priyanka Suhag, from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at CK Birla Hospital, explains that environmental heat can raise the central body temperature of a pregnant woman, leading to the dreaded hyperthermia.

And how does this work?

Imagine walking down the street in the middle of summer, without a drop of shade and feeling like you're melting. Now imagine the same, but with someone else inside you. Expecting mothers already have an increased blood volume and a heart that's working overtime.

Add to that the hormonal changes and the inability to regulate temperature well. Bingo! You have a recipe for disaster.

More heat means more sweat, which leads to dehydration if enough fluids are not taken. And when you become dehydrated, blood volume decreases, and consequently, blood flow to the placenta decreases.

The poor placenta, the baby's lifeline, could end up with less oxygen and nutrients, affecting the growth of the little tenant.

You may also like to read:Washing your sheets weekly is key to your health and rest!




Permanent damages? Yes, it's possible




Talking about this is a bit chilling, but it's the reality. Hyperthermia, especially in the first trimester, can result in neural tube defects such as spina bifida.

Furthermore, prolonged exposure to heat can lead to low birth weight due to compromised placental function. Heat stress could trigger premature labor and related complications.

Why is it worse for pregnant women?

Pregnant women are like wearing a panda costume in the middle of summer. They have more blood volume and body fat, along with a higher metabolic rate.

Those hormones that go crazy during pregnancy also affect the body's ability to regulate temperature. So yes, heat seems to target them mercilessly.

You can keep reading:Benefits of Morning Sunlight: Health and Sleep




When going out is unavoidable...




Sometimes you have to go out into the hot world, but all is not lost. Here are some tips for future moms:

1. Hydration is key: Drink water throughout the day and avoid drinks with caffeine or lots of sugar that can dehydrate you even more.

2. Keep cool at home: Use fans or air conditioning and take cold showers to lower your body temperature.

3. Rest and reduce activity: Avoid intense physical activities during the hottest hours of the day.

4. Appropriate clothing: Choose light, loose-fitting, light-colored garments made of natural materials like cotton.

5. Planning: Check the weather forecast and plan activities for the cooler hours, such as early in the morning or at dusk.

Taking care of yourself during pregnancy is already quite a task, and when you add heat levels that even hell would envy, it becomes even more challenging. But with a little planning and these tips, you can stay cooler than a lettuce. Health and freshness for you and your baby!

So, future moms, how do you plan to stay cool on hot days? Any secret tricks you want to share? I'm listening!

In the meantime, I suggest you schedule to read this article I wrote:I wake up at 3 am and can't go back to sleep, what should I do?



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I have been writing horoscope and self-help articles professionally for over 20 years.

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