A vacation to the beach is one of the fun vacation destinations, including for vacations babymoon before the little one is born. However, there are some things that pregnant women need to pay attention to so that their vacation to the beach remains safe.
Body conditions during pregnancy are different from before pregnancy, for example, skin is more sensitive or even body temperature rises faster. Therefore, so that vacations to the beach can still be enjoyed without endangering pregnant women and their little ones in the womb, pregnant women need to be more careful.
Pregnant Women's Guide to Relaxing at the Beach
The following are some things that pregnant women need to do so that their vacation at the beach is safe and enjoyable:
1. Apply sunscreen
During pregnancy, the skin becomes more prone to burning and is more at risk of developing rashes, itching, to black spots or patches chloasma. To prevent this, pregnant women are advised to apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Try to reapply every 2 hours or after the skin is exposed to water.
2. Limit sun exposure
Keep in mind that the body temperature of pregnant women tends to rise more easily so they are prone to dehydration which can harm the fetus. In addition, high UV exposure is known to interfere with the development of the fetal nervous system, especially in the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
Therefore, avoid exposure to the hot sun for too long. If possible, it's a good idea for pregnant women to use a tent or umbrella on the beach. Pregnant women can also bring an electric fan portable to help cool the body while at the beach.
3. Drink enough water
Make sure pregnant women drink enough water to prevent dehydration. It's best if you take a water bottle with you wherever you go. From time to time pregnant women can also drink juice, milk, or electrolyte drinks to help meet the body's fluid needs. Avoid drinks that can actually make you dehydrated, such as caffeine.
4. Prepare a cold compress
To maintain a normal body temperature after being exposed to the hot sun, pregnant women can place a cold compress or wet washcloth on the nape of the neck, forehead, or head.
5. Choose the right time to swim
For pregnant women, swimming can not only lower body temperature, but can also relieve lower hip pain that often occurs when the baby's weight gets bigger.
Wear comfortable clothes when swimming at the beach and avoid wearing heavy shirts when wet. In addition, choose the morning or evening when the temperature is not too hot, and make sure the waves are not too high to avoid the risk of drowning.
6. Wear comfortable clothes
Beach air can be humid and make pregnant women sweat easily. So, wear clothes that are loose, thin, absorb sweat, but still cover the skin, so that pregnant women don't overheat. It can also reduce the risk of prickly heat.
Don't forget to also wear a wide hat and sunglasses to protect your face.
7. Use comfortable footwear
For the safety and comfort of pregnant women, you should only use sandals as footwear. Also, avoid places that increase the risk of falling, such as rocky areas or cliffs on the beach.
In addition to applying the guidelines above, pregnant women also need to pay attention to their body condition while on the beach. Immediately pull over to the shade or a room with air conditioning if pregnant women feel tired, nauseous, dizzy, or excessive thirst.
It would be better if pregnant women visit a gynecologist before going on vacation. That way, pregnant women can ensure that pregnant women and fetuses are in good condition and safe to go on vacation to the beach.