Pregnancy Tips for Summer!

Enjoy being pregnant during the summer months by considering these pregnancy tips:

1. Relax at the pool, lake, or beach in a lounge chair, as keeping your feet up helps to reduce
    swelling in your legs. While relaxing, scroll through Pinterest on your smart phone to get
    ideas for nursery decorating, maternity fashion, & baby showers!

2. Drink plenty of fluids! Add a slice of fresh fruit with plenty of ice to your water for a
    delicious twist.

3. Buy a maternity swimsuit, in a fun print, to express your joy of being pregnant!

4. Enjoy the sun, as it helps your body produce vitamin D, which promotes a healthy pregnancy.
    But, protect your skin from sunburn by wearing a wide brimmed hat and sunscreen. Stay in a
    shaded area to avoid becoming overheated & if possible avoid direct exposure to sunlight
    from 10am to 4pm.

5. Exercise by swimming to keep cool, relieve your body from the added pressure of pregnancy
    weight gain, and maintain a healthy pregnancy weight gain. Choose a stroke that is
    comfortable for your pregnant body. Most doctors recommend swimming since it is a low
    injury exercise, but check with your doctor first.

6. Avoid common poolside foods that are salty, like french fries or nachos, as too much salt can
    contribute to swelling of hands and feet.

7. Spritz water on your body with a water spray bottle, some include a small fan as an added
    feature!


Written by : Shelley Scheibel, RN, BSN

                                                            Exercising While Pregnant

Exercising while pregnant can be fun and relaxing, especially during the summer months, when done with another mom, friend, or as a family.

1. Walking is an easy exercise that can be done each day during pregnancy. In the summer months, find a safe and peaceful place to take a walk in the early evening, when it is cooler. A walk helps you to wind down from the day and get some fresh air. If you have young children, they will enjoy getting out for an adventure. So, put them in the stroller and be on your way! For safety reasons, it is always best to walk with a friend and bring your cell phone, water bottle, and a few healthy snacks. 

2. Swimming is a great exercise because it uses your arm and leg muscles for a total body workout and is low-impact. It gets your circulation going which has many positive benefits for you and your baby. In the pool, you will feel cool, weightless, and have low risk of injury.  If you don't have access to a pool, call your local community center to inquire about a water aerobic class. Ask a friend to join you or meet new friends there.

Many pregnant women find that exercising during pregnancy gives them more energy, better sleep, and improved ability to deal with the emotional challenges of pregnancy.