Pregnancy tips for winter: Top gynaecologist on how to stay warm, infection-free, healthy

Pregnancy tips: Expectant mothers need to take utmost care during winter, keeping themselves safe from seasonal infections and ensuring they always stay hydrated (Image: Pexels)

Winter, with its beauty, also brings challenges for pregnant women such as dry skin, infections, low immunity, and joint stiffness. Hence, it is crucial for expectant mothers to follow these tips to stay healthy during the colder months. Expectant mothers, please be mindful of your health.

Pregnancy complications

Pregnancy causes many bodily changes, and winter can add extra stress. Expectant mothers need to be especially careful during this season. Cold air can dry out the skin, indoor heating can lead to dehydration, and seasonal infections like flu and cough can be troubling. Many expectant mothers also feel fatigued and achy during winter.

However, with simple precautions and daily care, expectant mothers can stay warm, maintain good immunity, and support the baby’s healthy development,Dr Ritu Agarwal, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Zynova Shalby Hospital, Mumbai, tells Moneycontrol.

Pregnancy tips to stay healthy in winter

Dr Agarwal suggests these important tips to stay happy during winter:

Stay warm but avoid overheating: Dress in layers so you can adjust easily. Keep your feet, ears, and hands warm by layering yourself. Opt for sweaters, gloves, and shawls.

Drink enough water: In winter, thirst decreases, but your body still needs fluids. Drink warm water, soups, and herbal teas. Proper hydrationhelps digestion, prevents constipation, and supports well-being.

Take care of your skin: Dry, itchy skin is very common in winter pregnancy. Use fragrance-free moisturisers as recommended by the doctor. Avoid very hot showers, which can make dryness worse.

Keep your diet nutritious: Make sure to opt for seasonal fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, warm milk, and protein-rich meals every day without fail. Avoid junk, canned, and processed foods and stay hydrated during winter.

Go for daily exercises: Gentle exercises like walking at home, prenatal yoga under expert guidance, or stretching keep the body flexible and improve mood. Don’t do any exercises on your own.

Maintain hygiene: It is necessary to wash hands with a sanitizer, stay away from sick people and crowded places, wear a mask while going out, and take vaccines as recommended by the doctor. A strong immune system is important for both mother and baby.

Sleep well: Expectant mothers should use blankets, keep their room comfortable, and try left side sleeping for better blood flow.