Every season has it’s pregnancy pitfalls, but the two major seasons, summer and winter, can be especially difficult. Women that are pregnant during the summer battle heat and risk of dehydration, but winter pregnancies are subject to cold, wet weather and illnesses. Because winter pregnancy risks are especially high, it’s important to be extra mindful of your health and safety during the season. However, this isn’t meant to scare you. If you follow the tips below, you can have a happy and healthy winter pregnancy.
Stay Healthy
Get a flu shot
In the case of illness, take pregnancy safe medicine:
Robitussin and Robitussin DM
Vicks plain cough syrup
Menthol rubs (such as Vicks)
Nasal strips
Halls cough drops
Cepacol lozenges
Tylenol
Avoid these:
Ibuprofen
Codeine
Bactrim (an antibiotic)
Naproxen (Aleve)
Aspirin
Combination medicines
Multi-symptom cold & flu
Cold & allergy medicine
Cough & cold medicine
Echinacea
Zinc
Use your sick days when you’re sick
During pregnancy, your immune system is suppressed so proper rest is even more important
Eat more fruit to fortify your immune system
Wash your hands often to avoid germs and lower risk of illness
Find ways to stay active
Prenatal fitness classes
Gym treadmills
Stay moisturized to prevent itchiness
Use quality moisturizers such as products by Aveeno or Eucerin
Drink lots of water to moisturize from within
Stay Safe
Get quality rubber-soled shoes or boots with good traction
Because your center of gravity is off, it is extra important to wear the right shoes
Avoid shovelling snow
It involves too much back use, which can cause pain
Avoid winter sports
Snowboarding
Downhill skiing
Sledding
If the weather gets too bad, stay inside
Shop online and have groceries delivered, if possible