Wednesday, 05 JUNE 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
Experts have said that pregnant women need to be vigilant about their health and ensure that they remain well-hydrated to combat the high summer temperatures. They have observed a surge in cases of low blood pressure, nausea and dehydration among pregnant women with the rise in the mercury levels in the city. By increasing fluid intake, pregnant women can reduce the risk of dehydration and other related ailments during the summer season, the doctors said.
Gynaecologist Dr Sujata Sanjay said that it is a common occurrence among pregnant women in their first trimester to experience nausea. However, she has observed an increase in cases of low blood pressure, fever and dehydration among pregnant women due to the high temperatures in the city. She said that the elevated temperature leads to dehydration in pregnant women, subsequently causing low blood pressure. Consequently, symptoms like unconsciousness, vomiting, nausea and fever become prevalent issues for pregnant women during temperature spikes. She further said that pregnant women’s bodies are already sensitive on normal days, but the immune systems tend to weaken due to higher temperatures. The heat not only impacts pregnant women but also affects the health of the unborn baby, she added.
She further recommended that pregnant women should take necessary precautions to combat the high temperatures. Increasing water intake and avoiding consuming spicy food will keep pregnant women hydrated and healthy in summer. Pregnant women also need to minimise unnecessary outdoor exposure and wear full sleeves clothing when outdoors, she said.
Another gynaecologist Dr Anjali Rawat highlighted the importance of hydration for pregnant women, especially in the summer when they are more prone to dehydration due to rising temperature and hormonal changes. Dehydration and indigestion issues can adversely affect the foetus, so taking precautions is crucial, she said.
Rawat further highlighted that consuming plenty of liquids helps in staying hydrated and combating the effects of summer. She suggested consuming fresh salads, avoiding spicy foods and opting for buttermilk and curd to cope with the summer heat.
