Tips for Pregnant Women During the Monsoon

Pregnancy is known to bring a glow to all to-be-mamas, but life is not completely peachy. Since the rains can bring their own share of problems, it makes sense to be completely prepared. Another way to approach this time is to look at it from a change of seasons perspective, and just get prepared accordingly.

Safety tips for pregnant women during monsoon season

We think following these pointers is a no-brainer really:

• We totally understand that pregnant women have cravings, and we are all for their fulfilment too- but at home. Avoid eating foods from outside stalls or carts. Say no to any cut fruits or salads too, because you don’t know how long they have been exposed. Also, eating oily or extra salty and spicy food can increase heartburn symptoms. So, make sensible food choices because dealing with jaundice, typhoid or gastroenteritis can be life-threatening.
• It is easy to get dehydrated now, so make sure you drink plenty of water. Dehydration can also bring another menace in its wake- urinary tract infections (UTIs). Also, please take a bottle with you wherever you go.
• The right attire is also super important- the high humidity means greater chances of skin irritation. So choose skin-friendly fabrics like linen or cotton. Wear comfortable loose clothes so that you don’t feel itchy. The right kind of footwear also matters since you cannot risk any slip-ups or falls now. Also, watch out for any broken or live tripwires on damp roads to prevent any risk of electrocution.
• A neem water or rose water bath will help cool you down, and keep you safe from any skin infections or irritation.
• Use a mosquito repellent because it is peak dengue season. Don’t get bitten by mosquitoes and risk getting infected. Also, sleeping with the mosquito net on is a great choice.

Preventing infections during monsoon in pregnant women

• Stay on top of your vaccination schedule and do not delay any necessary shots.
• Maintain personal hygiene- this is very crucial especially now.
• Consumption of a balanced diet rich in fresh and high-quality produce, grains and boiled water for added safety is a great way to ensure that your immunity does not get affected.
• Wear loose and dry clothing, because damp or sweaty clothing can cling to your body and there is a greater risk of contracting fungal infections.

Monsoon Diet Recommendations for Pregnant Women

• Avoid raw foods like the plague. Ensure you clean all produce very well in running clean water, and steam them before consumption.
• Eating meat is not a problem, but ensure it is cooked completely. Say no to any raw seafood to stay safe.
• Coconut water and fresh fruits are full of fibre, goodness and all the necessary electrolytes. Stay away from artificially sweetened juices or carbonated drinks as they can dehydrate you.
• Drink at least 2-3 litres of water daily.
• Limit caffeinated drinks like coffee or tea. No alcohol in any form is good. Mocktails are your new besties now.
• Ensure that all dairy you consume is fresh or pasteurised to prevent any tummy upsets.

Monsoon Skincare Tips for Expectant Mothers

This simple yet hype-effective routine works wonders on your skin:

• Exfoliate very gently and use mild Vitamin C containing serums.
• Hyaluronic acid is great for hydration.
• Stay away from any skincare products that contain retinol or its derivatives.
• Gentle and easy skincare is the way to go now. Nothing too complicated.

Conclusion

The rains can be invigorating, but pregnancy can also mean stress, health issues or general irritability. The humidity and general ickiness from all the muddy puddles don’t help matters either. So, stay dry and safe this monsoon.