As the summer season is on, doctors are warning pregnant women to be extra careful as they face an increased risk of dehydration and sunstroke. Along with the typical symptoms of pregnancy such as nausea, fatigue, breathlessness, anxiety and aches, expectant mothers also have to deal with the intense heat and humidity of summer.
City-based doctor Dr VP Jyotsna, Sr. Consultant Obstetrician Gynecologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, said that heat intolerance is a common issue for pregnant women during summer, as their body temperature is already higher than normal. She recommended applying a cool damp cloth to the neck, forehead, or top of the head, and drinking plenty of fluids such as water and fresh fruit juices.
Heat stroke or sunstroke is a severe condition where a person’s body can’t cool down and their temperature gets dangerously high. Pregnant women are at an increased risk of dehydration and sunstroke, which can also affect the baby. Pregnant women have been advised to stay indoors between 11 am and 3 pm, wearing loose-fitting cool clothes, and drinking extra fluids such as water and fruit juice. If heatstroke occurs, medical help should be sought immediately, and the person should be moved to a cool, shady, or air-conditioned area, and given water or fruit juice if conscious and able to swallow.
Doctors said that sunburn is another concern for pregnant women, as they are more prone to it than non-pregnant women. Doctors have recommended using sunscreen lotions with high SPF, wearing hats with wide brims and carrying umbrellas, and limiting outdoor time to early mornings and evenings.
For mild sunburn, cold compresses or baths and soothing moisturiser can help, but for severe sunburns with fever or skin blisters, a doctor should be consulted.
Further, doctors revealed that pedal edema or leg swelling can increase dramatically if the second half of pregnancy occurs during the summer months. In this regard, doctors advised them to keep their legs elevated while sleeping, avoiding constrictive clothing, not standing for too long, and not sitting while hanging the legs down for longer hours. Doctors said that by following these tips, pregnant women can stay comfortable and healthy during the summer season.
