How to handle a summer pregnancy

During your pregnancy, your skin contains higher levels of pigmentation. This is attributed to hormones. As a result, your nipples turn darker and some women develop a dark stripe on their abdomen (the gestational stripe or linea negra), which runs from the pubic bone to the navel. Due to that extra skin pigmentation, you will notice that you will tan more easily and get freckles from the sun. Some pregnant women develop pigmentation spots on their forehead, upper lip, chin or neck. This condition is also called a pregnancy mask or melasma.

After childbirth, the discoloration gradually disappears over time. To prevent a pregnancy mask, we recommend that you avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. Protect yourself against sunlight. Don’t bask in direct sunlight, but rather seek out a shady spot. Wear a cap or sun hat and apply sunscreen with a high protection factor.

During pregnancy, your body is prone to retain about two to three liters of additional fluids. Especially when you’ve been standing on your feet a lot or sitting in the office all day, your feet and ankles may swell up to the point that your shoes will pinch or you will not be able to put them back on again once you’ve taken them off. Your hands and fingers may also swell. On hot days, swollen feet and ankles may cause discomfort. Sit down and put your feet up or take a cooling foot bath (possibly with a refreshing effervescent tablet). Avoid eating salty foods. Salt is also conducive to retaining moisture.

• Take a cooling dip on a hot summer day. Do a few laps right away, because swimming is good for you when you’re pregnant!
• Make sure to drink enough
• Wear light, non-restrictive clothing
• Go for shade and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and a hat or cap
• Get plenty of rest. Most people have greater trouble sleeping when it’s hot. When you’re pregnant, your big belly also gets in the way at night. Try taking a nap during the day