PIONEER NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
Doctors said that ensuring adequate fluid intake can help pregnant women avoid dehydration during the summer season. They said that they annually observe an increase in dehydration cases among pregnant women during this season, which can adversely affect the developing foetus. To prevent this expectant mothers should ensure they remain hydrated during the summer.
The rising temperatures observed in March have raised concerns among many, with fears that this year’s heat wave will be significantly more intense than in past years. A physician at Deen Dayal Upadhyay district hospital Dr Praveen Panwar said that he has noticed an uptick in the number of pregnant patients facing dehydration and related issues, treating two to three such cases daily as summer approaches alongside rising temperatures. He said that pregnant women bear the weight of two individuals, which makes them particularly sensitive to heat during the summer months. Further, this season often exacerbates issues such as dehydration and abdominal infections, including diarrhoea, among pregnant women and in some instances, asthma allergies may also arise. To mitigate these risks, it is advised that pregnant women increase their water intake as much as possible, limit unnecessary outdoor activities and consume fresh fruits during the summer, he said.
“Normal individuals also face dehydration and related problems during the summer, so these challenges are even more pronounced for pregnant women. While I have not encountered many cases of dehydration so far, it is anticipated that as summer progresses, the incidence of dehydration, low blood pressure and other concerns will rise among pregnant women,” said gynaecologist Dr Sujata Sanjay.
She stated that rising temperatures lead to a decrease in body water levels, which can result in issues such as dehydration, low blood pressure and oxygen deficiency, as well as loose motions and other effects. This situation can have a direct impact on the developing foetus, affecting aspects like growth and heart rate. To prevent these problems, pregnant women are advised to increase their fluid and water intake as much as possible, consume coconut water during the summer months, regulate their body temperature when going outside and, if feasible, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, she said.
