What to do about this extreme heat during pregnancy? (Pregnancy & Heat Stress)

You've probably heard someone say, "Wow... you've got a really nice glow" when they look at a pregnant woman . But if the person who said that actually went and asked the mother herself, she would say, "What a glow, oh my, this sweat!" In fact, sweating and feeling hot during pregnancy is very common. Especially with the intense heat that comes around every year in our country, the discomfort that a pregnant woman feels is indescribable. So, in this time of sweating for two, how can you stay comfortable and stay safe from the heat? Let's talk about it.

Why does my body feel so hot when I'm pregnant?

There are several reasons for this. Think about it, you have another little life growing inside you. That baby's body also generates heat. In addition, during pregnancy, your body's hormonal changes and increased blood volume cause your metabolism to speed up. When all of this is combined, your body temperature rises slightly above normal. So, even if the surrounding environment is a little hot, you feel it much more.

"The last time it was so hot and sweaty, I couldn't bear it. When I got home from work, my clothes were all soaked with sweat," is a story told by many mothers in our country. This is not just an inconvenience. Sometimes it can be serious.

Can overheating be dangerous for you and your baby?

Yes, definitely. Extreme heat and the resulting dehydration , which is a loss of body water, are not good for you or your baby. Dehydration and overheating can lead to various complications.

Additionally, studies have shown that things like being in very hot water (Jacuzzi) and using saunas during pregnancy are linked to neural tube defects, which affect the proper formation of the baby's brain and spinal cord. Therefore, it is very important to avoid overheating the body in general.

Try these things to escape the heat and stay cool!

Okay, so what should we do to cope with this heat? Don't worry, making a few small changes can greatly reduce this discomfort.

1. Should we change the way we dress?

Let's start with the clothes you wear. Dark colors like black and navy blue absorb more sun rays. Also, tight, synthetic fabrics like spandex don't breathe well and make you sweat more.

• Wear light-colored clothing as much as possible . Colors like white, light yellow, light pink, and light green reflect heat.
• Choose loose- fitting , natural fabrics like cotton or linen . These absorb sweat well and are breathable.
• Forget about pantyhose for now. Instead, wear a pair of nice, comfortable sandals.

2. The water bottle is your best friend!

One thing you need to keep close by during this time is a bottle of water. The number one thing to do is to prevent dehydration . Try to drink at least 2-3 liters of water a day.

• A good trick: Put a bottle of water in the freezer and take it out before you go out. Once it thaws, you can drink ice water throughout the day.
• It's good to drink not only water, but also liquids like orange, grapefruit, and fruit juice (with less sugar).

3. How to plan your day's activities

Think about your working hours during the day.

• Minimize exposure to the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. If you are doing yard work or going to the park with your children, do it early in the morning or in the evening.
• If you exercise, do it indoors, in an air-conditioned place. Mall-walking is also a good exercise.
• Swimming is one of the best exercises you can do during pregnancy. It not only reduces the weight you feel on your body, but also cools you down.

4. Use small gadgets

There are also small devices that you can carry around with you.

• Personal mini-fan: Some of them can also spray water like a mist.
• Water spray bottle: When you feel hot, spray a little on your face, neck, and hands.
• Cooling bandanna: These are available at sporting goods stores. When soaked in water and worn around the neck, they help reduce body temperature.

I can't sleep at night... What are you doing?

During pregnancy, not being able to sleep at night due to heat is also a big problem.

• If possible, use an air conditioner . Or keep the fan on.
• Take a lukewarm bath before going to bed. Even if you wake up in the middle of the night, just sprinkling some water on your body can provide great relief.
• Sleep in as little clothing as possible . A thin cotton shirt is fine.
• Some mothers can't even stand the heat of their husband's body. If you feel like "it's too hot to touch," consider sleeping separately for a while. Your sleep and comfort are the most important things.

Doesn't this sweating stop after having a baby?

Yes, this is good to know. This sweating doesn't magically stop once you have your baby. You may still sweat profusely for up to six weeks after you have your baby. This is because the increased hormones, increased blood volume, and extra fluid and fat that accumulate during pregnancy take time to get rid of. So it's completely normal . Don't worry about it.

I hope these tips will help you. Remember, if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as extreme fatigue, dizziness, or confusion, see your doctor immediately . Don't hesitate to go to the Emergency Department (ETU) if necessary. Your safety and that of your baby are paramount.