Why are pregnant women susceptible to heat?
According to Dr. Shelly Singh, Director of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fortis La Femme, Greater Kailash, New Delhi (India), physiological changes during pregnancy reduce the body's heat resistance. Pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone, increase body temperature and make pregnant women uncomfortable when the temperature is high. In addition, pregnant mothers' body temperature is often higher than normal and their heart rate is faster, making it difficult for the body to cool down in the summer.
The impact of high temperatures on pregnant women
Dr. Shelly Singh said that when exposed to high temperatures, pregnant women are prone to dehydration and loss of electrolytes through sweat, causing low blood pressure, dizziness and fatigue. These factors can reduce blood flow to the placenta, affecting the health of the fetus, and can lead to miscarriage, low birth weight, premature birth, and even stillbirth. In addition, high temperatures can negatively affect the mother's mental health and change their behavior.
Symptoms of pregnancy heatstroke
Pregnant women can easily switch from mild heat exhaustion to severe heatstroke, which is life-threatening. Symptoms of heatstroke include:
Fatigue, dizziness
Vanishing, dehydration
Cold, moist skin due to sweat
Nausea, headache
Increased or weak blood vessel rhythm
In more severe cases, heatstroke can cause:
Confusion, conversion
Rapid breathing
High body temperature
Sometimes twitching
Ways to stay safe and cool during pregnancy
Monitor weather: Always update daily temperature forecasts and heat warnings from weather apps or bulletins.
stay indoors during peak hours: Limit going out from 11am to 4pm, when the temperature is highest. Find a place with a good air conditioner or ventilation to avoid heat.
cool down: Take a cool shower or soak in a bath. Avoid using hot showers or sauna, as they can increase body temperature.
Dress appropriately: Dress loose, light clothes made from natural, breathable fabric like cotton.
Sunscreen: Use sunscreen with an appropriate SPF to protect your skin from the harmful effects of sunlight.
Drink enough water: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even before feeling thirsty. Good choices are coconut water, fresh lemon water and classi. Avoid drinks high in sugar and caffeine.
Add electrolytes: If you sweat a lot or feel dehydrated, add electrolytes with an oresol solution (ORS) such as Electral to replace lost salt and minerals.
Adjust your exercise: Avoid overtraining, especially outdoors in the sun. Activities such as swimming in a cool pool or yoga in air conditioners are safe options.
Bring cooling items: When going out, bring a bottle of water and towel to calm your body when needed.
Monitor your urine: Pay attention to the color and frequency of urination. Low urination and dark yellow urine can be signs of dehydration.
