JULY 3, 2025 – Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it also places significant demands on a woman’s body. Here in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, our summers can bring intense heat and humidity, adding an extra layer of challenge for expectant mothers. Jennifer Tiffany, chief of Midwifery at Womack Army Medical Center (WAMC) explains how heat affects pregnant women and how knowing the right precautions can help ensure a healthy and comfortable pregnancy.
“Pregnancy naturally increases a woman’s basal metabolic rate and blood volume. While these changes support the growing baby, they also make it harder for the body to regulate its temperature effectively. As a result, pregnant women are more susceptible to the negative effects of heat,” shared Tiffany.
Exposure to excessive heat can lead to:
- Dehydration: This can have a ripple effect, impacting energy levels and even potentially leading to more serious complications.
- Dizziness and Fatigue: Feeling faint or unusually tired can be early indicators of overheating.
- Heat Exhaustion: If not addressed, dehydration and overheating can progress to heat exhaustion, characterized by more pronounced symptoms.
- Heat Stroke: This is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. It occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system fails.
Furthermore, maternal overheating and dehydration can pose potential risks to the developing fetus, including, preterm contractions or restricted fetal growth if maternal dehydration becomes significant.
It’s crucial for pregnant women and their support systems to be aware of the signs of heat-related illness. Early recognition allows for prompt action and can prevent the condition from worsening. Early signs include, fatigue, lightheadedness, headache, excessive sweating. As the condition progresses, symptoms like nausea, rapid pulse, flushed skin, confusion, muscle cramps can develop. For severe symptoms like heat stroke, cessation of sweating, high body temperature or even altered mental status (confusion, disorientation, loss of consciousness) seek immediate medical attention.
Fortunately, there are many proactive steps pregnant women can take to minimize their risk of heat-related illness, especially during the intense North Carolina summers. Pregnant women should limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing made from fabrics like cotton that allow air to circulate. Light colors reflect heat better than dark ones. Seek air-conditioned environments: whenever possible, even a few hours in a cool environment can make a significant difference.
Pregnant patient, Heather Jacques shares how she is staying safe. “I’m prioritizing my health by staying hydrated and following medical advice. To minimize risks, I’m also limiting my time outdoors, when possible, as recommended by my midwife.”
Tiffany recommends consistent hydration with water or electrolyte water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
“Pregnant women should aim to drink 64-96 ounces of water daily. Urine color can be a helpful indicator of hydration – pale yellow or colorless urine suggests adequate hydration,” said Tiffany.
Keep a water bottle with you as a reminder. Take frequent breaks if you must be outdoors, in the shade or a cooler environment. Avoid strenuous activity in high heat and humidity; modify your exercise routine and avoid intense workouts during the hottest parts of the day. Consider indoor activities or exercising in the early morning or late evening.
At WAMC, healthcare providers play a vital role in educating pregnant women and new mothers about heat safety.
“We integrate heat safety into routine prenatal education, especially during the summer months,” mentioned Tiffany. “I counsel women one-on-one during visits providing education on hydration, “warning signs of heat illness, and safe activity levels. For new mothers, we also talk about protecting newborns from heat exposure – such as dressing them appropriately, avoiding direct sun, and not covering strollers with blankets which can trap heat.”
Follow best practices for heat safety by listening to your body. Rest when you feel tired and seek shade or cooler environments if you start to feel overheated.
Being aware of the Air Quality Index in the area in which they live – high AQI levels can pose particular risk to pregnant women with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Know when to seek medical care, don’t, hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms of heat illness, especially if they worsen or don’t improve with self-care measures. By understanding the risks associated with heat during pregnancy and by following these practical guidelines, expectant mothers can navigate the summer months safely and enjoy a healthy pregnancy journey.
Remember, prioritizing your well-being is also prioritizing the well-being of your baby.
Story by Keisha Frith
Womack Army Medical Center