Sima Baalbaki, a women’s health physician at UAB, discusses how to avoid overheating and dehydration while pregnant.

Summer brings sunshine and fun times. However, it also brings the heat. The increase in temperature increases the risk for heat-related deaths and illnesses.

In general, heat-related illness can cause damage to the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles in any person. However, beating the heat is especially important for pregnant women and their babies.

“Two main concerns with excessive heat and pregnant patients are overheating and dehydration,” said Dr. Sima Baalbaki, assistant professor in the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. “This can negatively impact both the pregnant mom and the baby relying on her for nutrients.”

Pregnant women tend to naturally feel hotter due to the increase in blood flow and hormonal changes. They are more likely to become dehydrated in the summer heat because more of the fluid in their body goes to the fetus and the amniotic fluid.

Dr. Sima Baalbaki. (UAB)

Overheating and dehydration can cause one to feel dizzy and/or lightheaded. This increases the risk of falling, which can be dangerous during pregnancy as it can incite labor or placental abruption. In the first trimester, overheating can cause issues with fetal development.

While there are concerns about summer heat, Baalbaki reassures that it is OK to be outside while pregnant, but to take steps to stay cool and monitor one’s body temperature.

Braxton Hicks contractions are another concern with pregnant patients’ overheating and becoming dehydrated. While these contractions are not dangerous for the mom or baby, they can increase one’s anxiety and concerns around preterm labor.

“You definitely want to watch your salt intake, particularly if you are borderline for high blood pressure,” Baalbaki said. “Your doctor will know if it is summer swelling or something much more serious, like preeclampsia, starting to develop.”

Baalbaki also suggests these additional tips to stay cool, safe and comfortable in the summer heat:

• Drink 8 ounces of water for every hour in the sun.
• Wear light, non-constricting clothing, such as linen and cotton.
• Invest in small, personal fans.
• Avoid peak sun time from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Use at least 30 SPF sunscreen to prevent sunburn and help keep pregnancy-induced melasma from worsening.

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“We want our patients to enjoy the summer fun,” Baalbaki said. “However, if you experience nausea, dizziness or fatigue, be on the safe side and contact your physician.”

This story originally appeared on the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s UAB News website.