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It's Getting Hot in Here

Keep Cool While You're Pregnant
During the Summer Months

By Katherine Bontrager

"The water demand during summer months requires a woman to double her fluid intake, especially intake of pure water," says Dr. Kenneth Johnson, the assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology in the College of Osteopathic Medicine at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. "The minimum intake of water should be about eight, 8-ounce glasses of water a normal day, but during the summer months all pregnant women should drink 14 to 16 glasses. This recommendation is given to my patients even if they tell me they're primarily indoors because of the increased loss of body fluids due to use of the air-conditioner."

In addition, Dehn advises her patients to avoid caffeine, as it can by dehydrating. "Also, eat lots of juicy fruits or try Popsicles and frozen fruit bars," she says. "Small sips are best, especially in the third trimester when you may have indigestion and heartburn."

And much like Cousens' recommendation, Dehn says clothing choices can mean the difference between cool comfort and drenched discomfort. "Wearing thin cotton clothes that drape instead of hug your body makes a bit of a breeze, so flowing skirts instead of shorts will cool you down automatically," she says. "A top that kind of sways will als create air movement, and that will help."

Want to see more?

• Heating It Up: Summer Maternity Clothing Savvy
• Summer Pregnancies: Hot Tips for Staying Stylishly Cool
• Jazz Up the Tap: Flavored Waters Offer Healthy Hydration
• Talk about it!