Staying cool during pregnancy is especially important as expecting mothers are at increased risk of heat exhaustion, heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses. But there are plenty of ways to keep cool and comfortable, even in the relentless hot weather of Singapore. Here are five tips on how to beat the heat in Singapore while you’re expecting!
#1 Eat light and fresh
Heavy meals can raise your body temperature and make you feel uncomfortable in the heat. Opt for smaller, lighter meals that are easy to digest. Incorporating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables with a high water content can also help keep you stay cool and hydrated during pregnancy. Cold foods like salads, smoothies and yoghurt can be particularly refreshing when the mercury rises. Drinking plenty of water is an obvious suggestion, but consider adding slices of cucumber, lemon or pieces of mint leaves to make your water more refreshing and enticing.
#2 Stay cool while you stay fit
Continuing to exercise during pregnancy is important, but outdoor activities can be particularly strenuous when you’re exposed to the hot weather in Singapore. Instead, opt for indoor exercises like yoga, Pilates, or swimming. These activities are gentle on the body and can help reduce swelling and improve circulation. Many community centres and gyms offer classes specifically designed for pregnant women. Swimming in particular can help you stay cool and also offer relief from pregnancy-related back pains because of the buoyancy.
#3 Plan your day with the heat in mind
Try to avoid being outside during the hottest parts of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm. If you need to run errands or exercise, do so early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler. But how do you beat the heat in Singapore if you absolutely need to be out during the day? For starters, try to stay in the shade to protect yourself from direct sunlight, or take frequent breaks in one of Singapore’s many air-conditioned malls. You can also carry a portable umbrella or parasol to create your own shade or use handheld fans to cool yourself down.
#4 Dress light
In Singapore’s hot weather, it’s always wise to opt for loose-fitting, lightweight, and breathable clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Light colours can also help reflect the sun’s rays, keeping you cooler. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun when you’re outside and make sure to use plenty of sunscreen – while this won’t keep you cooler, it’ll certainly do wonders for your skin!
#5 Cool your living space
Keep your home cool by closing curtains or blinds during the day to block out the sun and keep in residual cool air from when the air conditioner was running in the night. You can also invest in UV filtering window wraps that will help keep your home cool even when the air conditioner isn’t switched on. A standing fan working in tandem with the air conditioner is another affordable way to stay cool during pregnancy.
Also… opt for maternity insurance for peace of mind
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but certainly not without its challenges, especially with the hot weather in Singapore. Being covered by a comprehensive maternity insurance plan can ensure that you’re covered for pre- and post-natal examinations as well as medical care for pregnancy related complications. Pacific Prime CXA is an experienced insurance provider in Singapore that offers a variety of insurance packages ideal for expectant mothers. Click here to read their informative maternity insurance guide.
Written in collaboration with Pacific Prime CXA.
