Monsoon is one of the most loved seasons for many. It makes you want to step out and enjoy the rains in all their glory.
However, for a pregnant mum, monsoon can be quite a challenge. The humid weather may bring frequent mood swings as well as increase the chances of infection, and other communicable diseases.
For your convenience, we have curated a list of seven essential things which you need to keep in mind if you’re pregnant during the monsoons.
Pregnancy In Monsoon: 7 Essential Tips For Mums-To-Be
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1. Eat a well balanced nutritious diet
When you're pregnant, you need to pay attention to your diet. Not only should it be healthy, but also full of vital nutrients, and hygienic.
Opt for a diet that isn't junk food and is high on protein, iron, and calcium to help propel the growth of your little one.
Stick to freshly prepared food items and avoid leafy green vegetables like cabbage, spinach and others that may have the chance of housing worms and germs.
2. Stay hydrated
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Dehydration is one of the most common problems of pregnancy during the monsoon season. In order to ensure you are getting the right fluid intake, make sure to drink 2 to 2.5 litres of water regularly.
Try to make it a habit of drinking purified or boiled water daily.
Staying hydrated can also relieve you from headache, nausea, fatigue, or any other uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms. Make sure you carry a water bottle whenever you step out of the house or keep fresh vegetable or fruit juices or coconut water handy.
3. Dress right
Monsoon brings with it excessive sweating due to the hot and humid weather. It can be extremely uncomfortable and especially so when you're pregnant.
So opt for light and loose fitted clothes made of natural fibres during the monsoon. They keep you cool and dry.
Try to avoid wearing synthetic clothes as they may cause rashes.
4. Choose the right footwear
You should never walk around barefoot or in rubber-soled footwear in this season as it increases your chances of tripping and falling. Always, choose footwear that isn’t slippery and is comfortable and supportive.
5. Personal hygiene shouldn't be ignored
While you may be maintaining the general cleanliness all around you, monsoon brings in a new level of diseases and infection.
Any negligence in hygiene, for instance, not washing the vegetables well before cooking or cleaning your hands, can pave way for the germs to get inside your body. Here are some personal hygiene tips:
- Always opt for a good laundry disinfectant to clean all your clothes, if you find a natural disinfectant its even better.
- Make sure you are taking bath twice if possible, to help kill the bacteria on your skin.
- Regular cleaning of your feet, especially cuticles, soles, nail beds, is advised as they are more prone to bacterial and fungal infections from dirty rainwater.
6. Boost your immunity
A lowered immunity can make it difficult to fight off infectious diseases. During pregnancy, your immunity system changes so that it can protect you as well as your baby. While some parts have stronger immunity, others may develop lowered immunity. This helps create a balance for higher protection.
But lowered immunity can make the mother prone to urinary tract infections, vaginitis, and postpartum infection and it can make the baby prone to cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis, and even parvovirus that can all be transmitted from the mother to the baby. Hence prevention is the best cure.
The best to do that is by maintaining hygiene, avoidance of unpasteurized, or raw, dairy products, practicing safe sex, as well as keeping yourself vaccinated.
7. Sanitise your homes
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Clean your home with a strong disinfectant especially during the monsoon season. It will help get rid of any microbes or germs that are usually present in the darkest corners.
You should also take care to wash and replace your bedding and other upholstery regularly since people visiting your house can also bring in germs with them from outside.
While being pregnant can bring in a few restrictions, but it doesn’t mean you cannot enjoy the weather. Taking note of a few monsoon pregnancy care tips can not only ensure your safety, but can also ensure you enjoy the weather and the beautiful rains with your little one inside you.
Other than the above tips, don't forget to include exercises daily into your routine, for instance, taking brisk walks or doing some yoga. And since we are still in the middle of the pandemic, don't forget to wear your mask, sanitise your hands and avoid crowds. If you are hesitant in getting your COVID-19 jab, consult your doctor today!
Stay safe! Stay Healthy!
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