Expecting a baby is a mixed bag of joyful and daunting emotions. While winter is good time to be pregnant, Delhi summers can be slightly uncomfortable. The oxygenated blood supply in the mother’s body increases by 40 -50% to be able to support the fetus. This excess blood leads to pregnancy heat. It is normal; but if the temperature rises above 39.5 degrees, it could cause overheating and heat strokes. If you are well into your pregnancy, avoid sweating it out.
Instead, try these simple hacks to keep yourself cool throughout. However, in case you feel your blood pressure shooting up or excessive sweating, it could be a sign of preeclampsia. In that case consult an affordable luxury hospital in Delhi, which specializes in high-risk deliveries.
Increase Your Fluid Intake
Doctors at luxury maternity hospital in Delhi suggest 2-3 glasses of extra water. In summers, you perspire more than usual which needs to be compensated. Otherwise it could lead to dehydration and contractions. This in turn causes preterm labor or other complications. Therefore, keep cold water, fruit juice or smoothies handy. Avoid chilled beer (or any alcohol) and caffeinated drinks like coffee.
Keep yourself Cool
To cope with the heat, run cold tap water on your pulse points, put on a chilled gel eye-mask or simply spray your face with cooling agents. Stay indoors as much as possible which is anyway crucial given the corona spread. Wear light breathable cotton clothes and keep the AC on. Otherwise, apply damp cloth on forehead or neck. If at all you need to step out for fresh air, consider the evening hours. Wear roomy shoes, walk slowly and keep sipping water.
Elevate Your Feet
Due to excessive fluids, swelling in the feet and ankles is inevitable. Lift the legs up whenever you are sitting or lying down. This will prevent the blood vessels from expanding further and the fluids will not spread. You could also make circles in the air with your feet for 3-5 minutes every day. This will reduce the swelling and the overall heat. Additionally, go for a swim session or soak your feet in cold water sometimes.
Eat Chilled Food
During summers, try to consume loads of cucumbers, celery, oranges, lemons, watermelons and strawberries. Vitamin C rich fruits and juicy vegetable help keep the body temperature down. Yogurt is the best food when sprinkled with crushed ice. You can also have ice-cream and tender coconut water in moderation which are safe and healthy for pregnant women. Try to avoid spicy fried foods and soups which could spike the body heat.
Rest it Out
Sleep might be disrupted due to pregnancy heat and overall bodily changes. But try to get as much as possible. While you sleep, the body temperature automatically goes down by 1-2 degrees. This happens due to lack of activities and movements. In fact, the body loses heat which helps you stay well-rested for long hours. For a better experience, draw the curtains of the room and avoid sun exposure.
If you feel dizziness, fatigue and uncontrolled sweating, consult the best luxury maternity hospital in Delhi. The doctors will take the necessary measures to help you stay out of danger.
