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Pregnancy is a beautiful stage of your life, but enduring the hot Texas summers during that time can be challenging. Dr. Lena Speck Hopkins, MD, is an experienced and compassionate OB-Gyn who is well-versed in treating pregnant patients in the state of Texas. She also understands the angst that comes with being pregnant during the summer in the Lone Star State, having “survived” three summer pregnancies herself. Dr. Hopkins’ expertise includes a high level of medical care for her patients, in addition to the personalized care that makes patients come back time and time again.
To thrive throughout your pregnancy during summer in Texas, follow Dr. Hopkins’ 11 tips:
During all stages of your pregnancy, but especially during the hot and humid Texas summers, it is important that you stay hydrated. Keep a cool pitcher of water or a filled water bottle handy. If possible, keep nonplastic reusable water bottles chilled in the fridge for grab-and-go hydration.
If possible, minimize the amount of time you spend outdoors in direct sunlight. If you do have errands to run or soccer games to attend, prioritize spending time outdoors in the early hours before high sunshine at noon, and look for shade wherever possible. Shifting your schedule to rise earlier in the morning before the sun is out, and complete your day before the hottest part of the day, will reduce the likelihood of exhaustion from the sun.
Nothing helps you beat the heat like the refreshing feel of water. So go ahead and splash, swim, and soak in the water all you want this summer, whether you just dip your toes in a kiddie pool or do laps. Exercise is perfectly safe for most women during pregnancy, but check with your doctor before anything too vigorous if you have complications.
Along with hydrating yourself, you should also avoid foods and drinks that are dehydrating. This includes things like coffee, pretzels, popcorn, and soy sauce. At least balance it with more water..
It’s important to rest during your pregnancy, especially during the hot and humid summer. If you’ve shifted your schedule to avoid the high heat, then consider taking a nap during the hottest part of the day from noon to 3pm.
To survive in the heat, consider outfit choices that ease your comfort. Choose flat and comfortable shoes like flip flops; wear light, breathable clothes; and remove tight rings, as your fingers will swell during pregnancy, especially when it’s hot.
A fun, air-conditioned activity is going to movies. Use the summer to catch up on the Oscar nominees and the fun summer flicks throughout the hot season. And with online streaming platforms, you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your own home.
If you must be outside, be sure to don a high SPF sunscreen on all exposed skin. This will protect your skin from the sun’s powerful rays.
In the same vein, toss a wide-brimmed hat in your bag or car so that you always have shade wherever you go.
With reports of the Zika virus making an appearance in the Rio Grande Valley, it’s more important than ever before to wear mosquito repellent containing DEET everytime you go outside.
Summer in Texas can seem everlasting. But reminding yourself that the days will soon turn shorter and we’ll be onto our Texas fall, can give you the hope and motivation needed to carry you through the worst of it.
By following these tips, you can make sure that you stay cool and comfortable during your pregnancy this summer.
For more information on prenatal care, call or click to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hopkins.
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