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# Keeping your cool during summer pregnancy
- URL: https://www.smdp.com/keeping-your-cool-during-summer-pregnancy/
- Published: 2003-07-08T15:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-23T02:30:28.000Z
- Author: Guest Author
- Tags: local, Santa Monica, #archive-import

*By Jon S. Matsunaga, M.D.*

QUESTION: What’s the best way to stay cool during a summer pregnancy? I hate the idea of being cooped up indoors all summer long.

ANSWER: There’s no reason why you can’t spend time outdoors during your pregnancy, but if you’re going to be outside in the sun and heat for any length of time it’s important to drink plenty of liquids to prevent dehydration and keep your body from overheating.

You should also limit your sun exposure to either mornings or late afternoons, when the sun is less intense. Direct sunlight is particularly strong between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so it’s best to avoid overexposure during those hours.

If you plan to engage in any outdoor activity, such as walking or gardening, try to do it in the early morning or evening when the temperature is cooler. When sitting outside, it’s a good idea to stay in partial shade, rather than direct sunlight. Keep a spray bottle of water handy and spray yourself whenever you start to feel too warm.

Overheating your body during pregnancy should be strictly avoided, so stay indoors or in the shade if outdoor temperatures exceed 90 degrees. If you begin to feel lightheaded or dizzy, get out of the sun immediately. You should also pay attention to local air quality warnings and limit your outdoor activity on days when the air quality is poor.

Be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen prior to any sun exposure as hormonal changes during pregnancy will make your skin more prone to burning and blotching. Apply sun block at least 20 minutes before heading outdoors and re-apply it immediately after swimming.

The type of clothes you wear outdoors can also help you stay more cool and comfortable. Wear light-colored clothing that reflects sunlight and avoid dark colors that will make you feel hotter. Certain fabrics like cotton also breathe more than others, allowing more air to circulate next to your skin, so stick to all-natural fabrics and steer away from clothing made with synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon.

Other helpful tips to consider include: ■Put your feet up and avoid lying flat on your back. It will help reduce swelling and improve blood circulation. ■Jump into a cool shower or swimming pool whenever you feel too warm. ■Stay away from salty foods as they will cause your body to retain more water, which will lead to increased swelling. ■Taking frequent naps, particularly if you’ve been outdoors for any length of time. Prolonged heat can sap your energy levels and pregnant women need more rest in order to feel better. (Jon S. Matsunaga, M.D., is an ob/gyn specialist and chair of the ob/gyn department at Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica. For more information on Saint John’s, contact the health center at (310) 829-5511 or visit the hospital’s Web site at www.stjohns.org.)

*Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on July 8, 2003.* [Read the original PDF.](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/smdp%5Fbackissues/070803.pdf?ref=smdp.com)