Getting too hot during pregnancy can be dangerous — and with every passing summer, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to escape the heat.
Summer Pregnancies Are Hard!
For moms who have had a few pregnancies already, one of the first things that is often on the agenda after a positive pregnancy test is calculating just how far along the process will be in July and August, and making predictions. Shall she expect morning sickness in 95-degree weather, or to need maternity swimwear? Can she look forward to cramming swollen feet in sandals, and is the kibosh officially on beach vacations?
The inconveniences — which we all know to expect as a side effect of pregnancy and parenting — are not the greatest concern, though. Now that every summer comes with warnings of record temperatures, and we’ve seen extreme weather crash power grids, moms-to-be are having to take greater care than ever for their own health as they carry a pregnancy through summertime.
Record Temperatures Are Continuing
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, May of 2024 marked the 12th consecutive month of breaking records for global temperatures. Europe and Africa, among other continents, hit their highest temps on record this year, and North America hit its second-highest — and we’re just heading into July now. This follows the summer of 2023 taking record numbers of lives in the U.S. due to heat, according to the Associated Press.
Pregnant women are more susceptible to heat and to heat-related health concerns, and in the southern U.S., utility companies have issued recommendations not to set thermostats more than 20 degrees below the outdoor temps — which could mean planning for indoor temperatures of 80 degrees Fahrenheit or higher!
Which Concerns Are Increased For Pregnant Women?
Hydration is already a serious issue for pregnant women, and in the summer, it can be even more serious. A pregnant body is already doing a lot of extra work growing a new human, and taking in enough calories, nutrition, and fluids to do so can be a significant effort.
In the summer, that dehydration poses an additional risk, because a dehydrated body will produce less sweat and be less able to regulate its own temperature.
The most recent studies are showing that exposure to excess heat could increase the risk of stillbirth, premature birth, and birth defects. According to Yale Climate Connection:
Sandie Ha, an assistant professor in public health at the University of California, Merced, analyzed 70 studies on the influence of heat on pregnancy outcomes. In her review, she found that estimates suggest a 16% higher risk of preterm birth during heat wave days compared to non-heatwave days. About one in 10 U.S. infants is born prematurely.
Ha also found that stillbirth rates are as much as 46% higher during heatwaves, and that every degree fahrenheit hotter equals an extra 5% risk. These risks are highest when exposure to high levels of heat comes at the end of the pregnancy, PBS reports.
What Steps Should You Be Taking?
Don’t panic! This all sounds very dire, and should certainly be taken seriously, but there are ways ti mitigate your risks and protect yourself and your baby!
The most obvious step is to beat the heat as much as possible. Seek out indoor activities for the hottest part of the day, or rest in the air conditioning.
Hydrate!
The UK’s National Childbirth Trust recommends trying a cool bath to help escape heat hazards. As a shortcut, they suggest running cool water over the wrists, and when away from home, carrying a misting bottle of water for a cool spritz.
Don’t forget the best use of water in record heat: hydration. Making sure to drink enough water will help protect you and your baby and keep you both healthy!
WebMD recommends 8 oz of water for every hour spent outdoors in the summer heat. If you’re not sure how much water you should be taking in, consult with your prenatal care provider for more specific recommendations.
Use the A/C — Even If It’s Not Yours
If your home air conditioning isn’t keeping up with the heat, take advantage of public options. A mall, your local library, or a children’s museum are just a few options where you can find cooled air and activities to keep your kids busy while you enjoy the break from the sun.
This is especially an important tip for the middle of the day, when the sun is it’s highest and hottest. Don’t forget, if you do find yourself outside, to utilize sunscreen, as well as umbrellas, hats, or other shade options, since pregnant women are also more susceptible to sunburn.
Additional Tips
Remember to choose clothing that lets air flow, and when indoors, to use blinds and curtains to help ease the load on your air conditioning system.
Rest when you need it, and be alert for any signs of concern!
The Conversation advises taking a time-out if you notice dizziness or weakness, increasing irritability, muscle cramps or heat rash, or any other signs that the heat is overwhelming you. If the symptoms don’t ease, call a doctor or seek emergency help immediately, and as always, reach out to your OB/GYN any time you’re concerned about your health or safety during pregnancy!