During pregnancy, expectant mothers experience increased physiological demands and heightened metabolic heat production, raising their body temperature by approximately 0.5°C above normal. Their subcutaneous fat layer is thicker than ever, disrupting the delicate balance between heat generation and dissipation. Living in cramped, poorly ventilated spaces further heightens the risk of heatstroke.
Moreover, scorching weather combined with the psychological changes brought by pregnancy increases expectant mothers' mental strain, making them more prone to emotional fluctuations. At this time, it's especially important to guard against "emotional heat exhaustion."Even among the general population, approximately 16% experience "emotional heatstroke" during summer. This incidence surges dramatically when temperatures exceed 35°C (95°F), daylight hours surpass 12 hours, and humidity rises above 80%.
Symptoms of Heatstroke
Physical Heatstroke
Mild cases may present as dizziness, chest tightness, excessive sweating, or nausea. Severe cases can lead to high fever, unconsciousness, or convulsions. If early signs of heatstroke appear, expectant mothers should immediately move to a cool, well-ventilated area to rest, loosen clothing, drink plenty of water, and actively seek assistance.
Emotional Heat Exhaustion
Irritability: Expectant mothers may frequently clash with family or colleagues over trivial matters, feeling internally heated and mentally foggy, unable to concentrate or recall tasks reliably.
Depression: Loss of interest in activities, feeling life lacks meaning, and showing diminished warmth toward colleagues and family.This condition improves slightly in the morning, worsens in the afternoon, and intensifies at night;
Unusual behavior, such as stubbornly repeating daily routines like bathing, washing face, or washing hands multiple times. May demand others follow suit, throwing tantrums if refused, and may refuse to eat or sleep when upset.
Heat Prevention Guidelines
Physical Heat Protection
Minimize Outings
During extreme heat, expectant mothers should reduce outdoor activities, especially avoiding midday hours when temperatures peak. If going out, wear a sun hat or use an umbrella.
Ensure Ventilation
Keep living spaces well-ventilated, maintaining indoor temperatures between 25°C–30°C.
Appropriate Clothing
With heightened sweat gland activity in summer, frequent bathing and clothing changes help keep pores unclogged and skin clean and cool, greatly aiding heat dissipation. Maternity wear should be loose and comfortable, made from soft, breathable, and heat-dissipating fabrics.
Dietary Heat Relief
To stay cool and hydrated, regularly drink warm water, mung bean soup, or plum soup. Increase intake of vegetables and fruits while reducing oily foods. When going out, carry warm water and communication devices like a cell phone.
Emotional Heat Relief
Adequate Sleep
Insufficient sleep leads to lethargy, dizziness, fatigue, decreased appetite, and irritability.Expectant mothers should choose a quiet, comfortable sleeping environment and avoid direct exposure to fans or air conditioning while sleeping. Before bed, light exercise, a warm bath to keep skin clean and refreshed, a glass of warm milk, or listening to soothing music can all promote better sleep. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep daily, plus an additional hour of nap if possible, to ensure adequate rest for both mind and body.
Mental Adjustment
As the saying goes, a calm mind brings natural coolness. Expectant mothers may find comfort in reflecting on the baby growing within them, fully embracing the wonder of nurturing new life.Avoid exposure to noise, intense sunlight, crowded places, and polluted air whenever possible. In your free time, read books about prenatal care or uplifting topics. Take evening or morning walks with family, listen to soothing music, and engage in conversations with those around you to foster harmonious relationships.