We are immersed in a heat wave that is affecting much of Spain, and the elderly, children and pregnant women are the most vulnerable groups.
During pregnancy, heat causes unpleasant effects that lead to bothersome symptoms or aggravate existing ones, so it is important to take the necessary measures to help combat high temperatures.
How does heat affect pregnancy?
Pregnant women especially suffer from the summer heat , not only because their body temperature is higher than the rest, but because the discomforts of pregnancy increase the discomfort that we all feel associated with high temperatures.
In this way, it is common for pregnant women to experience the following symptoms in summer, or a worsening of them if they already suffered:
- Feeling of fatigue and weakness
The heat flattens, as it is said colloquially, but in the case of pregnant women this decline is more noticeable due not only to the effect of hormones, but also to the volume of the gut that causes a continuous sensation of respiratory fatigue.
If we add to this the muscle weakness produced by the heat, it is normal that you feel that your legs weaken and you feel short of breath with every step you take.
- Brownouts
Low blood pressure in early pregnancy is usually common , due to the hormonal changes the body is experiencing, but high temperatures can also contribute to this discomfort more often.
Although hypotension generates very unpleasant symptoms (dizziness, nausea, headache, weakness …), it is not in itself more serious, although it is advisable to follow a series of tips that help minimize symptoms.
Among them, I would highlight a correct hydration, include foods that help prevent drops in blood pressure, avoid sudden movements, practice physical exercise on a regular basis to promote circulation and avoid sudden changes in temperature or very high levels, among others.
- Dehydration
During the summer, and especially on days with high temperatures, we lose more fluids from the body through sweat , so it is essential to replace them to avoid dehydration, a complication that during pregnancy could carry risks to the health of the mother and the baby. baby.
Symptoms of dehydration include dark-colored urine, confusion, dizziness, dry mouth, or fatigue, among others.
It is important to bear in mind that during pregnancy the fluid needs increase, so pregnant women should drink 300 ml of water daily over the recommended two liters; which would translate into 10 glasses of water a day, approximately. In times of special heat, adequate hydration will improve blood circulation, help us maintain body temperature and better tolerate heat.
- Increased sweating
In summer we all sweat more , because sweat has the function of purifying toxins from the body and helping to lower body temperature. But during pregnancy, sweating tends to increase , because as we have mentioned the body temperature rises and so does the thermal sensation.
Some women also consider that the smell of their sweat is stronger than the one they had before pregnancy. This is due to the action of hormones and the special olfactory sensitivity that occurs.
- Edema and swelling
Edema is a swelling caused by excess fluid in the tissues . It is one of the most common circulatory problems in pregnancy, affecting approximately 75 percent of women.
In general, edema occurs more frequently in the legs and ankles, although it can also affect the hands and face.
Although this problem can occur at any time and stage of pregnancy, it is more common to occur in summer and in the third trimester , as high temperatures dilate blood vessels, affecting blood circulation and causing a greater accumulation of fluids.
- Skin problems
High temperatures can contribute to increasing skin problems for pregnant women, especially if they have dry or sensitive skin. In this way, heat and lack of hydration could increase the sensation of itching and tightness, as well as lead to the appearance of pimples and rashes due to excessive sweating.
Tips to combat these annoying symptoms:
- Hydrate yourself and choose hydrating foods. It is very important that you stay well hydrated to avoid heat stroke. Always have a bottle of cool water on hand to drink frequently, and prepare fruit smoothies, natural juices or cold soups to beat the heat.
- Avoid copious meals and avoid fried foods and fats. Instead, eat several light meals throughout the day . Choose healthy snacks and make light dinners to avoid bad nights.
- Practice exercise regularly, appropriate to your physical shape and the time of pregnancy in which you are. In summer, exercises in the pool are the most recommended, but also yoga, Pilates or walking.
- Wear light clothing and appropriate footwear. Choose garments made of light fabrics, preferably linen or cotton, and avoid synthetic fabrics that adhere to the skin and increase the sensation of heat and sweat. Footwear is also very important, so you should opt for comfortable shoes, neither too high nor too low, made with natural materials.
- Avoid the hottest hours. Avoid as much as possible exposing yourself to the sun and heat in the central hours of the day, between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. If you have to go out, plan to do it early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The rest of the day, find the shade and the cool or air conditioning.
- At bedtime, raise your feet slightly by placing a pillow or cushions, and preferably lie on the left side. To cool the room and help you fall asleep, use the air conditioning or the fan, and follow these tips that will be very useful.
Photos | iStock
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