Heat/Sun Protection
· Pregnant women should wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
· Hats, sunglasses, and sun protective clothing is also recommended.
· Most sunscreen products are safe for pregnant women, but if you have concerns about ingredients, discuss these concerns with a health care provider.
· The heat can make pregnant women uncomfortable. Breathable fabrics are recommended.
· The summer months also bring out the bugs! Insect repellant containing deet is considered safe and is recommended for pregnant women.
· Drink plenty of fluids.
Foods
There are certain foods that should always be avoided by pregnant women, but they may be more available during the summer. Foods to avoid include the following:
· Predator fish such as mackerel, kingfish, shark and swordfish (they may contain high levels of mercury)
· Deli meats readily (a staple at summer picnics but they can be contaminated with a bacteria known as listera)
· Raw seafood such as sushi or shellfish
· Raw eggs (found in salad dressings)
· Soft Cheeses
· Unwashed vegetables
· Perishable picnic foods that have been sitting out for long periods of time
Travel
· Air travel is limited to pregnant women under 35-36 weeks
· Sitting on a flight or in a car for long periods of time can lead to blood clots. Stand up and walk around for a few minutes every 2-3 hours during long flights or road trips.
· Plan on extra bathroom breaks when pregnant and traveling and be realistic about how much walking you can do, especially during the final stages of pregnancy when you are most uncomfortable.
Exercise
· Check with a health care provider before starting or continuing an exercise regime.
· Exercise at cooler times of the day to avoid overheating.
