Your body has a natural mechanism that adjusts to cold through vasoconstriction (the constriction of blood vessels) to minimize heat loss, shivering to generate heat, and hormonal responses to increase your metabolic rate. But extreme winter conditions can still lead to heat loss, breathing discomfort, dry skin, and lowered immunity.
During pregnancy, the immune system is more vulnerable, making a pregnant woman more susceptible to infections like the flu. Since your body is already working harder, giving it extra support becomes essential. Hence, keep yourself warm and hydrated, avoid slips, maintain good nutrition, and protect your skin from dryness to protect your health and the baby's well-being during cold weather.
Read Also: Tips to Handle a High-Risk Pregnancy
Can Cold Weather Affect Pregnant Women?
Yes, cold weather can affect pregnant women by increasing the risk of the following complications.
1. Preterm Birth (During Late Pregnancy)
Preterm Birth: Cold weather stress can decrease blood flow and oxygen to the baby, increasing the risk of early delivery.
2. Low Birth Weight (Especially in the Second & Third Trimesters)
Exposure to extreme cold during pregnancy can lower nutrient delivery and may limit fetal growth.
3. Respiratory Infections (Cold, Flu)
There are higher risks from respiratory infections, such as colds and the flu, due to suppressed immune systems and extra pressure on the heart and lungs during pregnancy.
4. Dehydration Is More Common During Pregnancy Than Usual
During winter, cold, dry air and reduced thirst can lead to inadequate fluid intake. This can increase risks like preterm labor, constipation, UTIs, and decreased amniotic fluid.
5. Dry, Itchy Skin
Pregnancy hormones, along with the cold, dry air, lead to the skin drying and itching.
6. Slips and Falls
Icy surfaces in winter increase fall risk, which is dangerous for both mother and baby.
7. Deficiency of Vitamin D
Less sunlight in winter means lower levels of vitamin D (important for a baby's bone health) in the body. Your body requires sun exposure to synthesize most of its vitamin D.
Read Also: Anemia During Pregnancy: Symptoms, Risks & Prevention
What Can I Do to Keep My Pregnancy Safe During Winters? The Tips
You can follow these tips to support your body in performing its job properly during winter so that you can have a safe pregnancy journey.
1. Don Layered Warm Clothing
Layered clothing helps your body to trap heat and safeguard against sudden cold exposure. This prevents too much heat loss and keeps you comfortable indoors and outdoors.
2. Keep Yourself Hydrated
Cold weather may lower your thirst signals, but it's your responsibility to keep drinking adequate water to keep dehydration away. This helps maintain amniotic fluid and good blood flow to your baby.
3. Wear High-Quality Footwear
Choosing shoes with good traction decreases the risk of slipping on ice and falling, which can be dangerous during pregnancy because of changes in balance and center of gravity.
Look for the following features in your footwear:
- Deep-grooved rubber soles
- Insulated and waterproof or water-resistant boots
- Proper arch support
- A wide toe box and ample room, as your feet may swell during pregnancy
- Elastic laces or simple closures (e.g., zip-up)
4. Avoid Sudden Temperature Fluctuations
Make sure to move gradually and slowly between cold outdoor and warm indoor environments. This allows your body a brief chance to adjust to the change in temperature and avoids unnecessary stress on your circulation and immune system.
5. Moisturize Your Skin
Use pregnancy-safe moisturizers to safeguard from dry, itchy skin due to cold air and indoor heating, which can worsen pregnancy skin sensitivity.
Before choosing the moisturizer, you can consult your doctor or look for safe ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or natural oils like jojoba or almond oil.
Do not use products containing ingredients like retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, hydroquinone, phthalates, and formaldehyde.
Ways to keep moisturization:
- Apply moisturizer to your skin while it is still damp to lock in adequate hydration.
- Avoid long, hot showers or baths.
- Use a humidifier.
6. Support Immunity & Avoid Infections
Get flu vaccinations (after doctor consultation only), practice hand hygiene, and eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet (Vitamin C, Vitamin D, iron, and protein). This helps protect you from respiratory infections, as pregnancy lowers immune defenses.
7. Keep Yourself Physically Active
Engage in gentle indoor exercises or safe outdoor activities with warm clothing. This helps better circulation and overall health with no exposure to extreme cold.
8. Maintain a Warm Living Space Temperature
A warm living space helps prevent hypothermia risk (body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit). This supports your body to maintain proper temperature during pregnancy.
Read Also: First Trimester of Pregnancy: Symptoms, Changes, and What to Expect
What Is the Hardest Month of Pregnancy?
The hardest month of pregnancy can vary based on individual factors; however, the third trimester (months 7, 8, and 9) can often be considered the hardest month of pregnancy because of the rapid growth of the baby, exerting physical strain on the mother's body.
Read Also: Pregnancy Feelings No One Talks About – Let’s Break the Silence
Conclusion
Your body adapts to changes and weather during pregnancy; however, it has limits. Therefore, you need to take proper care and support your body's functions with healthy winter habits and professional guidance. This will ensure both your and your baby's well-being throughout pregnancy, especially in challenging conditions like winter.
