When it comes to the least enviable months to be pregnant, summer is often the first most think of. However, winter can be as great, or greater, of a challenge. The weather is getting cold, and keeping warm can be difficult. Your pre-pregnancy clothing already doesn’t fit, and now you must find warmer clothes in larger sizes to accommodate your growing belly. In addition to dressing warmly, we have other tips to help you manage your pregnancy safely during the coldest months of the year.
Tips For Keeping Healthy During A Winter Pregnancy
One of the first challenges you will face during pregnancy is navigating the inevitable icy walkways during this time of year. Many women experience difficulties in staying steady thanks to their growing bellies. Adding slippery surfaces to the mix adds more risk to the gestating mother. One crucial step you can take is to ensure that you wear shoes that have sufficient traction to keep you secure on the ice, snow, and sleet. Other steps you can take include:
- Winterize Your Car – The roads can be treacherous during this time of year. You must ensure you have tires that can manage the slippery black ice that can appear. Be sure to wear your seatbelt and keep it secured under your belly. Winterizing also ensures you won’t experience any difficulties or breakdowns that can lead to you being stranded in the cold weather.
- Delegate Chores When You Can – When possible, it’s important to pass difficult chores off to others. In addition to the physical labor involved, shoveling your walk can lead to slips and falls. Let others walk the dog and perform other chores that would put you in danger from winter conditions.
- Get Your Flu Shot – Getting your flu shot can help ensure you don’t get sick while pregnant. Flu symptoms can make it difficult to sleep well and to keep down important nutrients. Getting your flu shot improves the likelihood of contracting this disease during flu season.
- Stay Hydrated – It’s easy to lean heavily on warm drinks this time of year. However, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and other warm drinks will work against you when trying to stay hydrated. Be sure to drink the necessary amount of water during your pregnancy. Alternating water, and non-water, drinks can be an effective way of handling this.
These tips are great ways to improve your chances of maintaining a healthy pregnancy throughout the winter months.
Speak To Your Women’s Health Provider For Additional Tips
Your women’s health care provider will be an important asset during your pregnancy, regardless of the time of year. During the winter, they’ll be a necessary source of tips and tricks to navigate the cold season comfortably. By following their advice, you’ll help ensure you and your baby see the coming of Spring in good health. Together, you’ll greet a warm and green new year and the start of a new life.
