How to stay cool and dress for a heatwave whilst pregnant

With the hot weather not showing signs of disappearing anytime soon, summer can be uncomfortable for expectant mums. Many report feeling much warmer when pregnant and get tired when out in the sun. We share our top tips for managing the heat with a bump…

1.Opt for bamboo cotton clothing

Bamboo is perfect during a heatwave: it’s moisture wicking which helps sweat but it’s also designed to help regulate your body temperature which means it will keep you cool during the night and stop you overheating. Not only that but it’s also super soft, which means no chafing from sensitive skin in the heat. We love our pink bamboo maternity and nursing PJs, if you’re in your third trimester, don’t forget to pack these in your hospital bag as maternity wards can get stuffy!

2. Get out the paddling pool

Paddling pools don’t have to just be for kids. They’re ideal for hot feet, which are more at risk from swelling in the final stages of pregnancy too. Don’t have a paddling pool? No problem, grab the washing up bowl, some cold water and ice cubes and sit in the shade whilst soaking your feet in cool water. Bliss.

3. Invest in maternity swimwear

When it comes to pregnancy, we’re often keen to buy for baby and neglect to think of ourselves. But if you’re booked a break or staycation this summer, you need to invest in some maternity swimwear. A maternity swimsuit-such as our blue maternity bloom swimsuit, is specifically designed to grow with your bump; so it won’t dig into your growing bust or feel too tight around your bump. Instead, our swimsuit comes with removable straps, integrated cups to grow with your bust and is UP50+ Protection. If you’re more of a tankini girl then why not try our pink maternity bloom tankini; the low waisted brief is designed to be supportive to your bump whilst traditional bikini bottoms will dig in.

4. Drink plenty of water

We talk about eating for two but don’t forget to drink plenty of water for you and your bump too. Dehydration may be more likely in pregnancy (especially if you’re battling morning sickness and lack of appetite in the first trimester). In the heat, we lose more fluids through sweat so it’s even more important to get into the hydration habit. Using a water tracker bottle can be a great way to remind yourself to drink or perhaps set reminders on your phone every hour to give you a nudge.

5. Swap your maternity jeans for your maternity shorts

We often invest in maternity jeans but don’t forget shorts for the summer months too. Our maternity baxter shorts are perfect for summer days; the stretchy under bump waistband supports your bump and is also ideal for the bloating many women experience in their first trimester too. 

6. Pamper your bump

Some women experience sensitive skin during pregnancy and the hot weather can also lead to itching and dry skin. Make sure to keep your bump moisturised throughout pregnancy with some pampering in the summer months. Why not keep your lotion in the fridge for a super cold refreshing massage or use a bump sheet mask? 

7. Opt for semi-fitted or loose styles

In the hot weather, opting for relaxed semi-fitted styles are more likely to keep you cool, not dig in and are ideal for hormonal bloating and growing bumps. We love our rose floral maternity & nursing lulu layered dress. It’s soft fabric gently drapes over your bump without feeling constricting-use the attached belt to draw in and show off your bump or leave loose and layered for a more relaxed fit.

We hope these tips have given you some ideas for keeping cool in a heatwave when pregnant. 

Lots of love Lily and Ribbon Team x