How to Have Fun AND Be Safe During Summer
While we often think of summer as a carefree time, we still need to be careful. This is especially true for expectant mothers and newborns. Of course, there is still ample opportunity to have some fun. Perhaps, for example, you’ll check out one of the movies or books we’ve highlighted!
Nevertheless, sun and heat pose the two biggest summer challenges for moms-to-be and newborns. Numerous medical practitioners recommend some basic precautions to take in order to stay safe and healthy.
For Expectant Mothers:
- Use sunscreen
Pregnant women may be more sensitive to the sun, so it is imperative to find a mineral-based sunscreen for protection. Another option is to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing that provides protection. And of course, finding a nice, comfortable spot in the shade is always a great option.
- Hydrate
Pregnant women are imbibing for two. Drinking enough water supports the fetus’ development, helps maintain body temperature, and prevents dehydration. Try to avoid beverages that have a lot of sugar.
- Wear bug spray
Although pregnant women don’t want to overdo it with chemicals, they don’t want to incur unnecessary risk of having a strong reaction or getting sick as a result of an insect bite or sting. There are natural repellants that work, and the chemicals that are used in many bug repellants have been deemed safe for pregnant women.
- Exercise carefully
Pregnant women still want to get their steps in, but they need to make sure not to overheat. Exercising when it’s coolest—early morning or evening—is one strategy. Moving indoors may be another option. And swimming provides an opportunity to exercise and stay cool.
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion
Despite their best efforts, pregnant women may find themselves in distress. Dizziness, fatigue, and nausea are the first symptoms of heat exhaustion. And in more severe situations, vomiting and loss of consciousness may occur. Should the initial symptoms of heat exhaustion manifest, a pregnant woman should take immediate steps to cool down: seek shade, hydrate, and rest until the symptoms subside. For more severe symptoms, a pregnant should seek immediate medical attention.
For Infants:
- Keep them out of the sun
Infants less than six months old should not be working on their tans. If they are going to be outside, be sure to apply sunscreen to protect them against the sun’s harmful rays. Also, try to time exposure to the sun so that the peak hours (from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM) can be avoided.
- Dress them appropriately
Loose-fitting, natural fiber clothing that breathes is essential for hot summer months. Hats with brims and light-colored clothing will provide the dual function of keeping infants cool and protecting them from the sun.
- Hydrate but not with water
Infants need to stay hydrated. While Mom will have water close by, formula or breast milk is the best option for the baby. These fluids have the appropriate electrolyte balance. Like adults, babies may need to drink more in the summer to stay hydrated.
- Learn the signs of heat exhaustion and dehydration
An overheated infant could become irritable or lethargic. They will likely have rosy cheeks (maybe even a heat rash) and feel warmer than normal. They might even vomit. If dehydrated, they will have decreased saliva, lethargy, a lack of tears, and dry diapers. The soft spot in their skull could also sink in. This situation can become life-threatening, so do what you can to prevent it in the first place.
- Be careful with car seats
Of course, never leave an infant alone in a car, and this is even more important in the summer when the heat could overtake them quickly. Sun-blocking shades for the side windows can help shield an infant from the sun and heat while riding in the back of the car. It’s also recommended to spray their hands and feet with water to keep them cool, as well as to use lightweight fabric in any infant carrier.
Summer is a season with plenty of opportunities to have fun. But it’s also a time when pregnant mothers and newborns need to take some extra precautions in order to enjoy it safely.
Sources:
https://www.mhs.net/blog/2022/06/tips-for-a-safe-summer-pregnancy
https://unmhealth.org/stories/2022/04/5-tips-safe-fun-summer-pregnancy.html
https://pediatricassociates.com/parenting-tips/five-summer-safety-tips-for-newborns/
https://www.parents.com/baby/care/newborn/making-baby-comfortable-in-summer-heat/