The monsoon season brings high humidity and fluctuating weather, which can lead to a spike in infections and weaken your immune system. The increased risk of infections and communicable diseases during this time makes it essential to take appropriate precautions.
India Today spoke with Dr Shweta Wazir, Consultant – Obstetrics and Gynecology, Motherhood Hospitals, Gurgaon to get more insights.
To help navigate these challenges, here are some key pregnancy care tips for expectant mothers to follow during the monsoon:
Maintain Hydration: Dehydration often becomes an issue during the monsoon season, particularly for pregnant women. Ensuring adequate hydration is essential, so aim to consume 2 to 2.5 litres of purified or boiled water daily. This practice can alleviate symptoms such as headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. To maintain hydration levels, carry a water bottle with you whenever you go out.
Ensure You are Cleaning Fruits and Vegetables Right: During monsoon pregnancy, it is crucial for mothers to be meticulous about their diet. Leafy vegetables like spinach and cabbage tend to accumulate a lot of dirt and should be washed thoroughly under clean running water multiple times. Soaking them in salt or vinegar water for 30 minutes before cooking and consuming them can further ensure cleanliness.
Avoid Junk and Street Food: As previously mentioned, the monsoon season is a prime time for infections to spread through various means. Consuming food from places with questionable hygiene can increase your risk of falling ill. Instead, consider preparing delicious meals at home where you can ensure cleanliness and safety. Cooking at home not only protects you from potential infections but also allows you to control the ingredients and nutrition in your meals.
Exercise Indoors: Monsoon season is an ideal time to focus on indoor exercises, reducing the need to venture outside for walks or activities, which can help prevent colds and coughs. Enjoy activities such as yoga, pregnancy Zumba, and step aerobics indoors. Always consult your doctor before starting any exercise routine during pregnancy.
Wear Anti-Skid Shoes: Pregnancy shifts your centre of gravity due to added weight, making it important to wear sturdy, non-slip shoes. Extra caution is necessary when walking on potentially slippery outdoor surfaces. Being overly cautious can be beneficial, as a slip or fall could be harmful to both you and your baby.
Maintain a Clean Home: It’s crucial to keep your environment clean and free of pests. Use effective disinfectants for floors and especially bathrooms. Simple methods like burning camphor or dry neem leaves can help keep germs and pollutants at bay during the monsoon season.
Mosquitoes Are a Major Threat: Most of us constantly struggle, particularly during the monsoon season when mosquitoes swarm in large numbers. The first line of defence is using mosquito repellent, but don’t hesitate to use a liquid vaporiser as well. Bed nets can ensure a restful night’s sleep. Regularly inspect your home and surroundings for stagnant water, which serves as mosquito breeding grounds, and eliminate or avoid these areas whenever possible.
Navigating pregnancy during the monsoon season requires extra care and attention due to the increased risk of infections and weather-related challenges. Embracing these precautions will help you enjoy a safer and more comfortable pregnancy despite the seasonal hurdles. Prioritising these practices will not only safeguard your health but also contribute to a more positive and fulfilling pregnancy experience.
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