Right now in London is very hot, it makes you even wonder if it’s London 😉 Weather forecasts say it will be hot all week and next week as well. Yay! Picnics, BBQs and outdoor life!
Unfortunately, if you are pregnant, you might not enjoy yourself that much . . .
I had an autumn baby, she was born in mid-October so the last few months were fine here in London. However, I remember summer 2011 was quite warm and sometimes I was getting more uncomfortable.
Summer pregnancy can be challenging
Well, we all know pregnant women feel always hot. That’s because of all the extra blood circulating around your system. Do you know that during pregnancy, the amount of blood in your body increases by as much as 50 per cent? To better handle all that extra blood, your blood vessels dilate slightly, allowing the blood to come of the surface, which can make you feel hot. So imagine in days like these, I can feel your pain.
In the last month of pregnancy, you are doing such an incredible work carrying the weight of a baby who is constantly growing. I remember I felt like a hot air balloon 🙂 And my clients who come for their maternity session tell me the same. Well not such in an extreme way, but you know at the end you feel very heavy and exhausted and surely warm weather makes things even more difficult.
So please take care of yourself!
A few tips to keep you cool when pregnant
- Avoid direct sunlight
Sit under an umbrella if you are out in the garden or on the beach. Sitting in the shade will help you to keep your cool. If you are still working probably you will have air-con in your office.
- Drink plenty of water
Hydration is always important, and during pregnancy, those fluids are even more precious than usual. Your body needs the water to form amniotic fluid, build new tissue, carry nutrients, help indigestion and flush out your wastes and toxins. You should aim to drink at least 10 glasses a day in general, even more on days like these! You could also eat your water and have watermelons, cucumbers, strawberries, celery . . . all the fruits high in water.
- Avoid the hottest hours
Try to avoid the 11am – 3pm window when the sun is at its strongest if you can. This is just a general rule for everyone! I remember when I was little my mum was telling me the same. If I was playing outside I was recommended to stay in the shade. Or a better option is to stay inside and have a nap. But this was Italy. You know, in warm countries people have a siesta after lunch for some reason 😉 When indoors, open the windows and close the curtains to prevent the rooms from getting too warm.
- Wear something light
Wear soft cotton or linen fabrics that will let your body breath and loose clothes. Maxi dresses are lovely and will keep you fresh. Also, remember to wear cotton underwear. Possibly stay away from synthetic materials that will make you more sweaty and uncomfortable. If you are out in the sun, cover your head with a large hat. And of course plenty of sun cream.
- Use fans or water sprays
Consider investing in a fan—maybe having one on your desk at work (but probably you have aircon there) and one in your bedroom. You can have little ones that don’t cost much. Also, little handheld fans be really handy, fits in your handbag and can be used anywhere when needed.
- For Londoners who need to commute
Bus, trains and especially tube are really crowded during peak hours and that means really hot as well. If you can try to negotiate different hours with your boss. Maybe start early and finish early to avoid the crowd, I bet you are awake pretty soon anyway. If you can work from home some days, this will be gold 🙂
Wear your “baby on board” badge when on public transport and ask for a sit if not offered. Always take with you a bottle of water and a handheld fan to keep you a bit cool.
- Listen to your body
Keep activities to a minimum. Light walking is fine but listen to your body. If you are tired rest. Take a nap. Have a siesta 🙂 Actually, try to store as much “sleep” as you can.
I hope you found this post helpful. Any other advice you feel will be gold feel free to comment below.
Related article: What to Wear for Your Maternity Photos
If you are interested in maternity photography to document and remember your pregnancy, the best time is between 32 and 36 weeks. You could have a nice intimate session in the studio or a natural session on a park with your husband. Get in touch to know more or to have a free consultation with me. Or have a look at my maternity portfolio to be inspired.
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