Gynecologist warned about the risks for pregnant women due to the heat

The summer heat can be a real challenge for pregnant women. The body, which is already working in an enhanced mode, is experiencing additional stress, which can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as swelling, uterine hypertension and overheating. On June 24, Idilia Orfanova, an obstetrician-gynecologist at the SM Clinic Center for Reproductive Health, shared tips on how to maintain health and comfort during this period with Izvestia.

"During pregnancy, a woman's body increases the volume of circulating blood, which makes her more susceptible to overheating. Heat exacerbates this condition, leading to vasodilation and, as a result, edema. In addition, high fever can provoke uterine hypertension, which increases the risk of premature birth," warned Orfanova.

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Dehydration, she says, is also a common occurrence in the heat, and can exacerbate all these problems.

To protect yourself from the negative effects of heat, the doctor advised you to follow the following rules.

First, follow the drinking regime. Drink at least 2-2.5 liters of water per day. Give preference to clean water, unsweetened tea, and dried fruit compotes. Avoid sugary carbonated drinks.

"Drink often, in small sips — don't wait until you feel thirsty. Take a bottle of water with you: always carry water with you to be able to quench your thirst at any time," the specialist added.

Also, according to her, it is important to dress properly. The doctor recommends wearing loose, light-colored clothes made of natural fabrics (linen, cotton). Such fabrics will allow the skin to breathe and help to avoid overheating. In addition, it is important to wear a headdress — a hat or headscarf will protect you from direct sunlight.

"Avoid overheating. Try to spend more time in cool rooms — if there is no air conditioning at home, visit shopping malls, libraries or other places with air conditioning. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak heat — try to stay in the shade, especially from 11:00 to 16:00. Take a cool shower or bath several times a day," added Orfanova.

However, the doctor advised to control the swelling. In particular, this involves reducing salt intake, as it retains water in the body, increasing swelling.

The gynecologist suggested that you can lift your legs during rest — this will improve the outflow of blood and lymph. It is also worth remembering about physical activity — moderate physical activity, such as walking, will help improve blood circulation and reduce swelling. However, the specialist warned that it is necessary to consult a doctor about taking diuretics. Self-medication during pregnancy is unacceptable.

In addition, Orphanova advised to monitor her condition. Measure blood pressure in order to notice deviations from the norm in time, as well as pay attention to fetal movements (decreased fetal activity may be a sign of dehydration or other problems).

"If you experience alarming symptoms, contact your doctor immediately: uterine hypertension, severe swelling, headache, nausea, dizziness – all this requires immediate consultation with a specialist," Orfanova concluded.

On June 11, Izvestia reported on the causes of hair loss in women after childbirth. Tatiana Berezhkova, a leading obstetrician-gynecologist at the Women's Doctor Reproductive Health Clinic, attributed hormonal changes to factors that provoke hair loss in the postpartum period.