Stay cool… baby on board!

We spend so many months longing for the Summer, but when it finally arrives it can be fierce! In Cornwall and the UK, heatwaves happen, and if you’re pregnant, the novelty soon wears off!

With an onboard heating system already in place, soaring temperatures outside can really push ‘uncomfortable’ to another level, and even put you at risk.

When it’s hot, it's important to take extra precautions if you're pregnant to ensure your well-being and the health of your baby.

Here are some tips to help you stay cool and comfortable:

1. Stay hydrated

It sounds obvious but can easily be forgotten! Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.

2. Dress for the weather

Wear loose, lightweight, and breathable clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton. Opt for light colours that reflect the sunlight rather than absorbing it.

It’s worth scouring the maxi dress sections at the shops and investing in a few light loose ones. Most standard maxis can fit over a bump and there is no lovelier feeling than that floaty fabric billowing in the breeze with your bare bump beneath it.

3. Seek shade

I mean it’s obvious, right? But don’t feel like you owe it to the sun to be out in it all day long. Stay indoors or find shaded areas as much as you can.

If you need to go outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from direct sunlight.

And don’t forget the sunscreen!!

4. Talcum powder!

Apply a dusting of talc all over your body, and in all those creases and folds around your bump and wherever you feel sweaty and uncomfortable. It can also help with chafing - give it a try!!

5. Water spray, fans & air-con

You can fill up those little travel water spray bottles with water and spritz your skin for some cool relief - especially welcome when there is a breeze or fan blowing.

6. Take cool showers or baths

A refreshing shower or bath can help lower your body temperature and provide temporary relief from the heat. Keep the tub filled up and dip in and out for quick coolers.

When I was pregnant I used to wait until about 6pm and then drive down to the beach to stand in the sea for a bit. The rest of the time I had a small tub that I’d sit with my feet in to combat that throbbing of the ankles.

7. Use lightweight bedding

Choose breathable, lightweight bedding materials to help you stay cool during the night. You can even take the duvet out and just use the duvet cover as a light cover up.

8. Avoid strenuous activities

Limit your physical exertion, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Save your energy and don’t make plans that involve activities that can cause overheating. Prioritise ease.

Take it from someone who pushed through and fainted during a photoshoot once when I was pregnant!! So embarrassing and I quickly learnt the new limits my body had!

9. Eat light and nutritious meals

Opt for smaller, more frequent meals that are easy to digest. Include fresh fruits, vegetables, and hydrating foods in your diet. Summer salads, grilled fish or chicken, or simple things like corn on the cob - a godsend in the hot weather!

10. Watch yourself

Monitor your body - like I said before, it has new limits now that it’s growing another human inside it.

Pay attention to any signs of overheating, such as dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, or excessive sweating. If you experience any of these symptoms, rest in a cool place and call 111 for advice if you’re concerned.

Let me know in the comments if you have any keep-cool hacks that I haven’t mentioned!

Maternity photoshoots always happen after the heat of the day has died down - just before sunset is my favourite time, so if you’d like to have your pregnancy captured in beautiful photos on a Cornish beach, get in touch!