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For the majority of us, the monsoon season provides a welcome respite from the scorching summer heat. However, pregnant women face a unique set of issues during this season. Damp weather, waterlogging, tainted food, and a surge in mosquito-borne illnesses can all heighten the risk of infection during a period when the body is already working overtime.
The good news? Making some simple alterations in your schedule can go a long way. “The trick,” says Consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology, “is not to dread the season but to be ready for it.”
Beginning with the fundamentals: Water and healthy foods
The monsoon is well-known for causing a variety of water-borne infections, including typhoid, Hepatitis A, and gastroenteritis. Even minor gastrointestinal problems during pregnancy might cause dehydration and difficulties. The doctor advises drinking only filtered, boiled, or bottled water from a reliable source. If you’re going out, carrying your own water bottle is a simple practice that can help you avoid drinking polluted water.
Food options require equal attention. While roadside snacks may be enticing during the rainy season, home-cooked meals are the safer option. “A balanced pregnancy diet should include fresh fruits that can be peeled, well-cooked vegetables, whole grains and good-quality protein sources such as eggs, dairy products, beans, fish or lean meat,” she suggests.
She also recommends avoiding raw salads prepared outside, undercooked meat and food that has been left uncovered for long periods.
Humidity creates the perfect environment for infections
The combination of warmth and moisture during the monsoon season promotes the growth of germs and fungi. This is why personal cleanliness is even more important during pregnancy. Even simple actions such as frequent hand washing, daily bathing, dressing in fresh cotton garments, and keeping skin dry will help lower the risk of infection.
If you get caught in the rain, don’t stay in wet clothes too long. Changing into dry clothes as soon as possible reduces the risk of getting fungal skin infections.
Don’t underestimate mosquito bites
Mosquito-borne infections including dengue, malaria, and chikungunya are more than simply seasonal concerns for pregnant women. They can potentially cause major consequences. Dr. Jhaveri recommends covering your arms and legs, sleeping under mosquito netting when necessary, and avoiding stagnant water near your home.
If you wish to use mosquito repellents, consult your health care provider to ensure that they are safe.
Symptoms like as high fever, bodily pains, rash, and irregular bleeding are extremely serious and should not be overlooked.
Wet roads need extra caution
Slippery roads and damp staircases are inescapable during the rainy season, making falls more frequent. Simple precautions that can help prevent injuries include wearing good-grip footwear, avoiding wet roadways wherever feasible, and utilizing handrails while climbing stairs. “If you do experience a fall, contact your doctor even if you feel completely fine,” adds Dr.. “Some pregnancy-related complications may not become obvious immediately.”
Keep moving, but do it safely
Unless you’ve been advised otherwise, pregnancy isn’t a reason to stop being active during the monsoon. Indoor walks, prenatal yoga and gentle stretching exercises can help improve circulation, reduce back pain and support overall wellbeing.
Outdoor exercise, however, is best avoided during heavy rainfall or when roads are slippery.
Don’t ignore routine check-ups
Bad weather often causes individuals to postpone medical appointments, but antenatal visits should not be missed. Making appointments ahead of time, allowing for extra travel time, and keeping emergency contact information on hand can all help during the wet season.
According to Dr., diminished baby movements, vaginal bleeding, prolonged fever, severe abdominal pain, or fluid leakage should all be evaluated as medical emergency.
No two pregnancies are precisely same. Some women become more weary with humid conditions, while others experience increased edema or nausea.
(Disclaimer: The article’s advice and recommendations are meant primarily as general information and should not be interpreted as expert medical advice. Before beginning any exercise program or making any dietary changes, always get advice from your doctor or a dietitian.)
