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Pool Party!

The Mom-to-be Summer Pool Guide

By Melinda Copp

"Not drinking enough can have serious consequences," says Dr. Aneema Van Groenou, author of The Active Woman's Guide to Pregnancy: Practical Advice for Getting Outdoors When Expecting (Ten Speed Press, 2004). "If you are dehydrated, you are more susceptible to heat exhaustion, cold illness and altitude illness. Dehydration is also the most preventable cause of preterm labor. If you are dehydrated, you are also more likely to suffer from headaches, urinary infections, constipation, dry skin, hemorrhoids and fatigue. So you should take drinking seriously, especially during pregnancy."

Dr. Van Groenou says to drink at least 10 glasses a day. "If you are exercising, drink about a liter of water every hour," she says. "Drink even if you don't feel thirsty. Once you feel thirsty, you are already somewhat dehydrated. The best way to keep track of your hydration is to watch your urine: If it is dark yellow or if you urinate less than once every four hours, you need to drink more water."

The summer sun is hot, your belly is getting bigger and bigger every day and there's no reason why you shouldn't spend the afternoon relaxing at the pool. When you use these tips for finding the right bathing suit, getting some exercise and staying safe, every day can be a pool party.

Want to see more?

• Me Time: Swimming Becomes a Fit Escape for One Mom
• Summer Safety: Don't Let Your Kids Get Dehydrated
• Pool Party: Get Fit, Have Fun and Stay Cool in the Pool
• Talk about it!