Being pregnant during a Wisconsin Summer can be a challenge to staying comfortable. In the Milwaukee area, even though we are now officially in the Summer season, temperatures have still been cool and wet. However, because we live in Wisconsin, we know the hot, humid, sticky weather of Summer will arrive soon. When you are carrying another human inside you, the effects of the heat can be felt even more intensely. 

If you are pregnant, how will you stay comfortable and safe during the hot summer days? Let ‘s think about these things now.  

• Hyperthermia – Abnormally high body temperature can be dangerous for pregnant women.  During the Heat Advisories, stay cool in the shade or inside and avoid hot tubs. Applying a cool washcloth to the nape of the neck and forehead can feel refreshing. Carry around a personal hand held fan for those times you are feeling the heat Maybe hang out at one of Southeastern Wisconsin’s beautiful lakes in the shade and feel the breeze.
• Exercise safely – Swimming is a great exercise for pregnant women, feeling the freedom of movement in all directions can be lovely when you are feeling a bit encumbered by the weight gain.
• Hydrate – Pregnant women are more likely to show signs of dehydration such as lightheadedness or dizziness which would cause them to fall. Also, low levels of hydration can affect your hormones which, in late pregnancy, could stimulate intermittent uterine contractions. The Cleveland Clinic recommends pregnant women drink 10-12 glasses of water a day.

So, grab a towel, pick up your favorite book on pregnancy or parenting, head to the beach, put an umbrella in that tall, chilled glass of water and enjoy the albeit brief Summer of Wisconsin.