Summer Pregnancy: 5 ways to stay cool and comfortable when its Hot, Hot, Hot!

Summer is the season for sunny days and balmy nights, which means it’s also the season for expectant mums to feel hot and – let’s be honest here – bothered.

And that’s ok, because it’s natural for pregnant women to be feeling the heat. Mums-to-be have a higher core body temperature than usual, there is more blood pumping around the body, and as that baby bump grows, it takes more effort to move around.

Fortunately, there are lots of ways to get some relief from the heat. Here are our top 5 tips for staying cool during a summer pregnancy.

Stay hydrated 

It’s easy to become dehydrated at the best of times, let alone when you are pregnant during the warm weather. Get into the routine of taking a bottle of water with you wherever you go so you can sip water regularly throughout the day.

Choose comfy and light-coloured clothing

Fabrics such as cotton and linen are perfect to wear during the summer and will ensure good airflow, light-coloured clothing is cooler than thick and dark-coloured clothing.

Take a dip

Have a lukewarm shower, dip your hot feet in a cool foot spa (or paddling pool) and, if possible, head to a pool or beach for a dip. With the weather being so hot, you may find your ankle begin to swell, keep dipping them in cool water an elevating.

Seek out shade

Try to do the 'outdoor stuff' early or late in the day, when the sun is lower and the temperatures are a little cooler

Go slow

There’s no need to rush around. Try to take things easy when it’s hot, have a nap if needed and don’t be afraid to ask for help. After all, the most important job on the list is growing a baby!