Heading into summer with a pregnant belly? Welcome to Sweat Land, population: YOU.
Unfortunately being pregnant in summer can make for long, tough days.
There are a few things that will help you get through the hotter months with that little bub on board. Here’s a list of must-haves for your summer pregnancy wardrobe and other items you will need to have to hand:
Clothes and wearables
Pregnancy bike shorts: Bike shorts are on trend right now, which is great because they are perfect with a pregnant figure. The best pregnancy bike shorts are strong and flexible, with an extra high waist so they don’t bunch up or slide down. They are breathable and have just the right amount of compression to support your body.
Try Active Truth’s pregnancy pocket bike shorts in sizes ranging from XS to 3XL. They are guaranteed to be comfortable and even come with a handy pocket. Order a size larger than you normally wear and grab a spare pair so you always have something comfy to step out in this summer.
Pregnancy briefs: If you’re not keen on bike shorts, a pair of
pregnancy briefs will give you good support under your clothes.
Loose clothes: A comfortable maternity dress or a baggy t-shirt are perfect to throw over your pregnancy bike shorts. Choose something loose and comfy and easy to get on and off. Pop a
maternity sports bra underneath and you will be comfortable as well as cool.
Shoes: Your feet are never further away than when you’re pregnant. Invest in some shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Thongs are great but you may need to look for a pair with a bit of extra support under your arches. Be prepared to go a size larger than usual!
Dealing with the heat
Now you have your pregnancy bike shorts and your comfy shoes, here are some other summer essentials
Water: It’s important to stay hydrated when you are pregnant. The Aussie summer sun is a killer and can dehydrate you before you know it. Invest in a good drink bottle that you can keep at your side. Insulated bottles can be good to keep your water cooler even in hot weather and you can also find bottles which have a misting device attached to help you to stay cool.
Sun protection: That glowing skin that you get when you're pregnant can actually be more sensitive. A comfortable, wide-brimmed hat is the best way to keep the sun off your face and neck when you go outdoors. And don’t forget the SPF 50+.
Shade: You can’t really take it with you but try to avoid activities that will see you out in the direct sunlight for a long time. Your body is already working extra hard and you don’t need the added pressure of overheating.
Other handy stuff
Deodorant: Having some deodorant handy in your bag will help your confidence while you’re pregnant. Summer can be hot and sweaty anyway but pregnancy can make it even worse. Keep some deodorant on you so you can freshen up as you need to.
Mocktail recipes: Just because you're off the booze doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun drinks. Get a mocktail recipe book or two and a portable blender for some tasty cool drinks to fight the summer heat and make yourself feel a bit fancy.
Personal fan: You can pick up little fans pretty easily online today. Lots of them are even hands-free for breezy cool relaxation. Pedestal fan for your bedroom so you can get through the night.
Cooling foot spray: There are a few brands to try. Spray them on your feet when you are getting too hot and bothered for a relaxing cool sensation.
Pregnancy pillow: Treat yourself to some decadence with a full body pillow just for pregnant women and you’ll sleep better through the night.
For the best postpartum and pregnancy bike shorts, head to Active Truth
