April marks the beginning of summer in India. The infamous Indian summer season is known for being unforgiving and harsh. Heatstrokes become common in India during the months of April, May and June, which are peak summer months. While everyone should take care of their health during these months, pregnant women should be extra careful during these months.
We spoke to Dr Shelly Singh, Director, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fortis La Femme, Greater Kailash, New Delhi, who shed light on why pregnancy increases sensitivity to heat and how to navigate the summer months safely.
Why Is There Greater Heat Intolerance During Pregnancy?
Several physiological adjustments during pregnancy contribute to a reduced tolerance for high temperatures.
- Hormonal Influence: The pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone, lead to increased heat generation in the body, known as the thermogenic effect.
- Increased Basal Body Temperature: Pregnant women have higher basal body temperature and faster heart rate, which causes greater overheating and difficulty in getting rid of it.
How the Body Responds to Heat Stress During Pregnancy
When faced with excessive heat, the body's primary cooling mechanism is sweating, leading to loss of electrolytes, salts and dehydration. This causes low blood pressure, dizziness and fatigue.
Also Read: Heatwave Alert: Follow These Tips To Travel Safely During A Heatwave
Impact of High Temperatures on the Developing Foetus
"When a pregnant woman overheats or becomes dehydrated, it can cause less blood flow to the placenta, which can cause miscarriages, low birth weight babies, stillbirths and preterm deliveries. Some studies have even linked heart defects in the baby to exceeding exposure to very high temperatures in tropical countries like ours," said Dr Singh.
According to a 2022 study, there is growing evidence that high temperatures adversely affect the mental health of pregnant women and can also change their behaviour.
Also Read: How Mother's Emotions Shape Baby's Mind In The Womb: Expert Explains
Impact of High Temperatures on Pregnant Women
Pregnant women are more prone to progressing from milder heat exhaustion to the more severe and life-threatening condition of heatstroke. Here are some symptoms listed by Dr Singh that you should watch out for:
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Fainting attacks
- Dehydration
- Dry tongue
- Cold, clammy skin due to excess sweating
- Nausea, vomiting and headache
- Increased pulse rate or weak pulse
- In the more severe forms of heat strokes, there are:
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Fast breathing
- High body temperature
- Sometimes seizures
Strategies for Staying Safe and Cool During Pregnancy
This summer, follow these expert-recommended strategies to ensure a healthy pregnancy:
- Monitor Conditions: Stay informed about daily temperature forecasts and heat advisories through weather apps or news reports.
- Stay Indoors During Peak Heat: Limit outdoor activities, especially between 11 am and 4 pm when the sun's intensity is highest. Seek out air-conditioned or well-ventilated cool environments.
- Cool Down: Take cool showers or baths. Do not use hot tubs, saunas, or excessively hot baths, as these can raise your core body temperature.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing made from natural, breathable fabrics like cotton. Light colours reflect sunlight better than dark colours.
- Sun Protection: Protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has an adequate SPF level.
- Hydrate Relentlessly: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even before feeling thirsty. Water is essential. Other excellent choices include coconut water (rich in electrolytes), fresh lime water, buttermilk (lassi), and traditional coolers like aam panna. Avoid excessive sugary drinks and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration.
- Replenish Electrolytes: If sweating heavily or feeling dehydrated, consider an oral rehydration solution (ORS) like Electral to restore lost salts and minerals.
- Modify Exercise: Avoid strenuous workouts, particularly outdoors during hot weather. Opt for indoor activities like swimming (water helps dissipate heat) or exercising in an air-conditioned gym. Prenatal yoga in a cool setting is also a good option.
- Carry Cooling Aids: Keep a water bottle and perhaps a cool, damp towel when exercising or if you must be outdoors.
- Monitor Urine Output: Pay attention to the colour and frequency of urination. Infrequent urination with a dark yellow colour may be a sign of inadequate hydration.
Bottomline
Dr Singh concluded, "Staying safe from the summer heat is important when pregnant. Know the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion and get medical help right away if you feel any symptoms."
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]