Summer months during pregnancy can be more challenging for expectant mothers. Many health problems can be seen in the summer months when the air temperatures reach the highest levels of the year. Expectant mothers are among the most risky groups regarding summer diseases and health problems that arise during this period. It is important for expectant mothers to pay attention to some points in the summer, both for their own and their baby’s health. Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist Op. Dr. Hazel Cagin Kuzey made important suggestions for pregnant women in the summer months.
Pregnancy includes many different emotions. While the preparations for the baby continue rapidly, the summer months for expectant mothers can be very different compared to the pre-pregnancy period. Changing hormones during pregnancy can have different effects on expectant mothers. For example, false menopause can often be seen in expectant mothers. In addition, women may feel the heat more during pregnancy. A second point is that fluid consumption increases during pregnancy, and if it coincides with the summer period, the need for fluid increases even more. Due to hormones and feeling the heat more, expectant mothers may sweat more and fluid losses are common. For this reason, pregnant women need to increase their fluid consumption during the summer months.
SUMMER SKIN STAINS CAN BE PERMANENT
In summer, there may also be some changes in the skin due to the sun’s rays due to pregnancy hormones. If sunscreen is not used during this period, these spots may be permanent. Therefore, pregnant women must use protective products. In addition, another danger in the summer season is related to the wide variety of fruits. Since fruits with a high glycemic index increase the risk of gestational diabetes, especially in summer, pregnant women should not consume these fruits in large quantities. Fruits with high sugar content can also cause excessive weight gain in the baby or irregularities in the baby’s blood sugar.
INFECTION DUE TO WET SWIMSUIT CAN BRING EARLY BIRTH
Pregnant women who are not at risk of miscarriage or premature birth, who do not have urinary tract infection or vaginal infection can swim in the pool or sea. However, the hygiene of the pool and the sea is different. Pregnant women should enter the pool, which they know is very well cleaned. After getting out of the pool and the sea, you should not stay in a wet swimsuit. Standing in wet swimwear can cause infections. During pregnancy, women are more prone to infections, it is important to pay attention to hygiene and wet swimwear in the pool or sea, as these infections can progress to the kidneys and cause premature birth. In addition, cramps are more common during pregnancy. For this reason, it is recommended that pregnant women should not be alone while swimming.
RISK OF CLOTHES MAY RISE ON LONG TRAVELS
If there is no risk in the pregnancy of the expectant mother, it is possible to travel, but if the car is moving during the trip, a break should be given every 2 hours. Because, depending on pregnancy hormones, the risk of clotting is high during this period. 10-15 minute walks during breaks reduce this risk. Fluid consumption should be increased during travel; If a long flight is to be made, you should walk in the corridor of the plane using compression stockings.
PAY ATTENTION TO THE FOODS CONSUMED ON HOLIDAYS
Eating and drinking order is also very important on holiday. It is often eaten at open buffets, especially outside. Pregnant women should stay away from uncooked meats, perishable foods containing cream, canned foods, vegetables and greens that are not known to be well washed. Such foods can increase the risk of infection and endanger the health of the expectant mother.
