Are you pregnant too? This is how you can survive this unbearable heat! (Pregnancy & Heat Intolerance)

With the heat these days, if you are expecting a baby, this time must be a bit difficult, right? It's hot all around, you're sweating, and your body is very uncomfortable. It's actually normal to feel hot during pregnancy . But we know that it's not easy to bear. But don't worry, we are going to talk about some simple, practical ways to help you cope with this extreme heat comfortably.

Why do you feel so hot during pregnancy?

You may be wondering, "Why am I the only one feeling so hot?" There's a reason for that. During pregnancy, your body's hormonal changes and increased metabolism cause your body temperature to rise slightly. So, when you're already feeling a little hot inside, the heat from the outside can double the discomfort.

Doctors call this condition 'heat intolerance' , which means a reduced ability to tolerate heat. That's why even heat that feels normal to others can feel unbearable to you when you're pregnant.

What can you do to stay comfortable in the heat?

Okay, so how do you deal with this heat? Below are some simple, yet very important tips to help you.

Drink plenty of water and fluids.

This is the most important thing. When you sweat in the heat, your body loses not only water, but also essential salts, called electrolytes . This can lead to dehydration.

• Not just water: Drinking water is great. But you can also replenish lost electrolytes by drinking things like oranges, grapefruit, fresh fruit juices (with less sugar ), and milk.
• Don't drink too much water: Some people think that drinking a lot of water is okay. But if you drink too much, just water all the time, the salts in the body will become even more diluted. This condition is called 'water intoxication' . This can cause muscle cramps and extreme fatigue. Therefore, drink other fluids alternately with water.
• Don't wait until you're thirsty before drinking: Even when you feel thirsty, your body is already dehydrated. So make it a habit to drink water little by little throughout the day.

Clothing and little tricks

• Light clothing: Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, such as cotton, that absorbs sweat as much as possible. This allows the body to breathe and reduces the risk of heat rash . Heat rash can occur due to sweat accumulation, especially in the areas under the breasts and abdomen.
• A spray bottle of water: Keep a small spray bottle filled with water nearby. When you feel hot, spray a little on your face, neck, and hands. It will provide great relief.
• A damp cloth: Wiping your neck and forehead with a damp cloth is also a good way to reduce body temperature.
• Swimming: Swimming is a great way to cool down if you can. Not only does it cool you down, but floating in water also reduces the pressure on the sciatic nerve , which can help relieve back pain.

Keep these things in mind when exercising

It's good to exercise during pregnancy, but you need to be very careful on hot days.

• Timing is important: Choose a cooler time of day to exercise, such as early morning or late afternoon. Avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day.
• Ask your doctor : Before starting any exercise program or continuing an existing one, be sure to consult your doctor .
• Listen to your body: Don't exercise until you sweat profusely or become overheated. If you feel tired, stop immediately and rest.

Let's be careful of the sun!

Skin changes during pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. So be careful when going out in the sun.

• Sunscreen: If you are going outside, use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. During pregnancy, the skin produces more melanin , which can lead to the development of a “mask of pregnancy.” Therefore, it is very important to protect yourself from the sun.
• Avoid midday sun: Avoid exposure to the harsh sun between 11am and 3pm as much as possible.
• Be aware of the danger signs: If you are experiencing any discomfort due to excessive heat, it is important to recognize the early signs.

What to do for swollen legs?

Swelling of the legs is very common during pregnancy, especially in the last few months. This is called 'physiologic edema' . This swelling of the legs can increase in hot weather. Let's take a look at what you can and can't do about it.

If you follow these tips, you'll be able to get through this hot season a little easier. Then you can stop worrying about these inconveniences and look forward to the new member of your life.

Pregnancy, heat, heat intolerance, pregnancy health, swollen legs, dehydration, pregnancy heat