Pregnancy is filled with fun, they say. But there are a few instances when it becomes difficult. Especially when there is a climatic change and during winter days. It is during this phase that pregnancy care in winter is essential as women are susceptible to cold, fever, and many health issues. Everyone likes winter as it is nice and pleasant and also you get a variety of foods full of nutrition to choose from.
Having said that, the season comes with its own set of challenges. It puts expecting mothers at risk of various allergies and infections during this time. However, wearing appropriate clothing, keeping yourself warm, and keeping yourself hydrated, can turn your pregnancy experience into a marvelous and memorable one.
Read on to know about our tips to follow if you are pregnant during winters.
Is Winter Good For Pregnancy?
Being pregnant in winter may seem like a problem, but there are plenty of reasons to rejoice. A cold weather pregnancy has several surprises — from comfy clothes and spending quality family time to saving money and extra sleep — that many people overlook!
According to a source, pregnancy naturally ups your internal thermostat which means you are more likely to remain warm. It is believed that pregnant women also get good sleep as they are always under covers and comfy.
Many parents feel they get a lot of ‘ME’ time which helps them go with their nesting instincts. Also, winter clothes were used by many moms to hide their extra curves. Moreover, many parents expect and rejoice in a winter pregnancy for having to deliver a spring baby.
Can Cold Weather Affect Pregnancy?
If you are pregnant during winter, you are skeptical of cold and flu. It is important to keep yourself warm and minimize your exposure to extreme cold in conditions like snow and ice. This is because there are more chances of slipping in icy conditions.
Related Reading: 11 Indian Home Remedies For Cold During Pregnancy
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Also, hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to dry and itchy skin and the changes in climatic conditions could make it even worse. Vitamin D is essential to maintain a healthy body and immune system as it forms in our skin in response to sunlight. However, during winters it could leave pregnant women at risk of vitamin D deficiency1.
According to a source, the extremes in temperature could hamper the development of the placenta or alter blood flow to the uterus, leading to early labor. The researchers found that women who experienced an extreme cold for the first seven weeks of their pregnancies had a 20 percent higher risk for delivering before 34 weeks of pregnancy, a nine percent increased risk for delivering from 34-36 weeks, and a three percent increased risk for delivering in weeks 37 and 38.
Essential Pregnancy Care Tips During Winters
During winter, pregnancy can turn troublesome for a few expecting moms. The chill in the air can lead to aches and pains and also leave the expectant mom susceptible to colds, coughs, and infections. Though it is amazing to be pregnant during winters, did you know that you require some extra pregnancy care in winter as the gloomy weather can affect your health and mood?
Pregnancy care in winter is crucial as you have to adequately protect yourself right from wearing the right type of garments, following a healthy and nutritious diet, keeping your skin hydrated, and above all maintaining a high level of immunity.
Here are a few tips to help pregnant women go through this cold weather during pregnancy without facing its ill effects.
1. Invest in a winter jacket
What to wear during pregnancy in winter comes as a big question when women are going through their gestation in this period. They get confused between investing in maternity clothes or getting a comfortable winter jacket. The best option is to buy a winter jacket as it helps in keeping your body warm.
You can easily zip up this jacket over any dress that will help you stay healthy and tackle the winter even if it gets hard. Dress in layers so you can adapt to the changing temperature and adjust accordingly.
2. Stay hydrated
Staying well hydrated during pregnancy is highly recommended. The chilly weather could leave you from touching your glass of water. With the blood volume increase during pregnancy being one of the reasons, pregnant women subconsciously forget to drink water. The body needs extra hydration due to dry winter air. Just because it’s not hot outside, you can skip that glass of water.
One important pregnancy care in winter is to keep the skin hydrated and avoid it from becoming dry and drink plenty of water. Do not try to substitute beverages as water only helps you keep the body hydrated. You can try options such as coconut water and fresh juices. In case you miss drinking water, there are plenty of options and apps to remind you of drinking water.
3. Watch your diet
During winter, health becomes sensitive for many. Pregnant women must exercise extra caution during this season to keep fit and active. Following a healthy nutrition diet in this winter season can help pregnant ladies manage their pregnancy as well as the weather.
Consume a variety of foods from different food groups including legumes, fruits, pulses, and dairy. You may also include grains, cereals, pulses, etc. daily as these are rich sources of fiber and help to maintain a healthy gut. You can also choose Indian gooseberry which must be specially included in your daily meals.
Related Reading: Chyawanprash During Pregnancy
4. Plan your attire
As winters become severe, pregnant ladies need to plan to wear layers of clothing so they can add or remove the layers according to the change in temperature.
Being comfortable and warm is the most important thing in the winter season. Planning is key for dressing in winters as your body tends to run hot or you get overheated quickly once you are indoors.
You can opt for a tank top or t-shirt, a cardigan, a buttoned shirt, or a lightweight scarf to beat the winter. This could make you look cool and stay warm at the same time.
5. Exercise regularly
Due to the cold winter mornings, you may want to start your day late. However, remember it Is important to stay fit and active throughout pregnancy as it can affect your health when you are expecting a child. Physical activity can help to ease pregnancy pains and aches. While you may find yourself sitting on the couch more than you should, you need to try to be active too.
Try swimming in an indoor pool or walking on a treadmill at the gym. Try to minimize exercising outdoors as the freezing temperatures can be dangerous for your health.
6. Skin moisturizer helps
Pregnancy care in winter includes taking care of your skin health too. Winter months are notorious for causing dry and itchy skin. It is a strict NO to have stretchy skin during pregnancy. Invest in a good-quality moisturizer that will save you from flakes and itchiness and helps to keep your skin supple.
Use warm water for bathing instead of hot water, which the body may not resist. After taking a bath, you must immediately moisturize your skin. Frequent application of creams, soothing oils, and lotions is mandatory.
Related Reading: 11 Easy Tips Glowing Skin During Pregnancy
7. Wash your hands regularly
While this pregnancy care in winter may sound strange or difficult, it is important to wash hands at regular intervals to keep germs and infections at bay. Keeping in mind the safety of the baby inside the womb, wash your hands before and after eating anything. In case you don’t find the tap nearby or find it difficult to move, opt for a hand sanitizer.
8. Get a flu vaccine
The immune system takes a hit during pregnancy. Hence, it is suggested you get your flu vaccine as it is safe for you as well as the unborn baby. This will protect you and your baby from any prevailing flu threat.
Apart from this, if required, stay away from people who are sick, avoid crowded places, take medication on time as suggested by the doctor, and maintain distance from people.
Conclusion
Winter comes with its own set of challenges and expecting mothers are at risk of various allergies and infections during this time. Pregnant care in winter must be followed by taking care of the immunity levels by eating a nutritious diet and keeping the skin hydrated.
When a woman is pregnant, her body becomes more sensitive. Therefore, try avoiding going outdoors and exposing your body to extreme weather conditions as much as possible. Chilly weather and germs can be harmful to both mother and the baby. Also, the excessive cold may even make you fall sick.
Lastly, before you plan to go for any treatment during pregnancy, please ask your doctor who will know your exact condition and advise you accordingly.