Pregnancy-related overheating can put the mother's and the baby's health at serious risk. Due to increased blood flow and metabolic rate, pregnant women are more likely to overheat. Dehydration, lightheadedness, and heat exhaustion can result from overheating and be dangerous. In extreme situations, it could impact embryonic development and result in neural tube abnormalities or other issues.

Pregnant women should wear loose clothing, avoid hot situations, drink plenty of water, and take breaks to cool down when needed to avoid overheating. Keeping an eye on your body's temperature and being aware of your level of effort will help make your pregnancy safe and healthy. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Priyanka Suhag, a consultant in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, talked about the signs of overheating in pregnant women.

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Overheating During Pregnancy Can Be Concerning. Some Common Signs To Watch For Are:

    1. Excessive Sweating: Unusual or heavy sweating is a clear indicator.
    2. Hot, Flushed Skin: The skin may appear red and feel warm to the touch.
    3. Dizziness Or Lightheadedness: Feeling faint or dizzy is a common symptom.
    4. Nausea And Vomiting: Feeling nauseous or actually vomiting can occur.
    5. Rapid Heartbeat: An unusually fast heart rate might be present.
    6. Muscle Cramps: Painful cramps, particularly in the legs, can indicate overheating.
    7. Fatigue: Overheating can cause extreme tiredness and lethargy.
    8. Confusion Or Irritability: Mental disorientation or mood changes may also occur.

How Pregnant Women Can Tackle Overheating:

Stay Hydrated:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Carry a water bottle to ensure regular intake.

Dress Appropriately:

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing.
Opt for light-colored clothes that reflect heat.

Avoid Direct Sunlight:

Stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
Use an umbrella or wide-brimmed hat if you need to be outside.

Use Fans And Air Conditioning:

Keep cool with fans or air conditioning at home.
Spend time in air-conditioned public places, like shopping malls or libraries, if your home is not cool enough.

Take Cool Showers Or Baths:

Refresh yourself with a cool shower or bath.
Use a damp washcloth to cool your face and neck.

Rest And Relax:

Take frequent breaks if you are active.
Avoid strenuous activities, especially during hot weather.

Eat Light Meals:

Opt for smaller, lighter meals that are easier to digest.
Include plenty of fruits and vegetables with high water content.

Use Cooling products:

Try cooling towels, sprays, or gel packs.
Place them on your forehead, neck, or wrists for relief.

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Monitor Your Environment:

Keep an eye on the weather forecast.
Plan outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day.

According to Dr. Priyanka Suhag, if a woman experiences any severe symptoms of overheating, such as an intense headache, confusion, rapid breathing, or a high temperature that doesn't come down, she should seek medical attention immediately. Overheating can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby, so it's important to take precautions and act promptly.