Summer Heat and Pregnancy
If you are pregnant, it is important to keep your body temperature within normal levels to reduce any health risks to you or your baby. One such health risk, dehydration, can cause severe problems, including preterm labor.
Symptoms of dehydration include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Muscle cramps
- Increased body temperature
It is important to stay in a cool, comfortable environment during the hot summer months. To prevent dehydration:
- Avoid exposure to the sun from 10 am to 3 pm, when the sun and its rays are the most intense.
- Avoid outdoor exercise in the summer heat.
- Wear light, breathable clothing.
- Drink six to eight glasses of non-caffeinated liquids per day.
Be sure to talk with your health care provider if you have questions or concerns about the summer heat and pregnancy.
Learn more prenatal health tips at Penn's Pregnancy Health Center or sign up for Penn's Pregnancy and Parenting e-Newsletter today.
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