You will hear mixed opinions on summer pregnancies, but so often the stories are of dread and exhaustion just at the thought of being hot and sweaty while literally carrying around another little human all day. On the other hand, some mothers will THRIVE in the warmer weather! After two summertime pregnancies, I can honestly say this Florida girl LOVED being pregnant during the hot southern months. While not everyone will have the same positive experience, there are a few steps you can take to enjoy your growing bump AND the sunshine! 

1. Drink. All. The. Water. Hydration is possibly the most important aspect of enjoying your pregnancy in the summer. It is essential in keeping amniotic fluid at a healthy level, reducing swelling, carrying nutrients, and flushing toxins. It will also help keep your overall body temperature within safe parameters. 

2. Electrolyte drinks. Ok, I know this may fall into the same category as the last one - but it’s THAT IMPORTANT! Dehydration can cause nausea, nausea and vomiting can cause dehydration. You will want to avoid as much of that vicious cycle as possible by getting ahead of it and hydrating. You also tend to lose electrolytes more quickly while pregnant. I recommend having a natural electrolyte drink once a day or every other day, but especially when you will be outside. Coconut water is a wonderful option!

3. Eat ice! Munching on ice will keep you hydrated and cool. Do you see a theme?

4. Lightweight clothing. Light fabric and flowy dresses will be your best friend. Depending on where you live, you may even be able to wear a swimsuit most of the time (heyyy FL mamas)!

5. Get outside early in the morning for exercise. Finding time to work out can be a huge boost to a healthy pregnancy. And exercising outdoors in nature is wonderful!! To avoid overheating you will want to get outside early before that midday sun hits. 

6. Eat lots of fresh fruits and veggies! Consuming nutrient dense foods will help you flush toxins, stay hydrated, help with digestion, and maintain a healthy body temperature. Pack your diet full of vitamins by making big salads and smoothies, infusing your water, or simply precutting fruits and veggies to snack on throughout the day.

7. Don’t be afraid of the sunshine! Vitamin D deficiency is quite common in pregnancy and a little bit of sunshine can bring those levels right back up.  That being said, stay somewhere you can get in the shade (or set up an umbrella) in case you start to feel overheated.

8. Wear ocean safe, natural sunscreen like this one (but only after about 15 minutes without sunscreen - because vitamin D). If you are trying not to be miserable while pregnant in the summer, the last thing you want is a sunburn. It is not a fun experience. Just make sure that it is a natural sunscreen, free of toxins, that is also ocean safe.

9. Take a dip! If you live close to the ocean take advantage of this natural source of magnesium to cool off. If the beach is not an option spend some time in a pool or cool shower.

10. Last but not least, keep an eye on the temps and avoid going outside any time there are going to be extreme conditions. If there is an extreme heat warning, you will overheat and dehydrate much more quickly - and possibly without realizing how the heat is affecting you until you find yourself in a bad situation.

Did you enjoy your summer pregnancy? What helped you thrive (or survive) in the hot weather?