Managing the Dog Days of Summer

Posted by Brenda Lane Aug 6, 2006

Right now I have three clients in my doula practice who are due this month and miserable in the summer's heat. Not to mention that this summer we seem to be breaking records in the Mid-Atlantic area for heat and humidity. All of us need to be drinking more water, especially pregnant mothers. I always recommend that moms bring a large water bottle with them everywhere they go. Don't forget that dehydration can bring on contractions so it's even more important to drink at least 8-10 8oz glasses of water a day in addition to other beverages.

It can be tempting to want the baby to come early when the weather is so hot. Inductions are becoming more popular these days, but there are some disadvantages to inductions that every mother should be aware of. An informational article entitled "Labor Inductions on the Rise" will be published this week with the latest statistics, so watch for it!

Since more women turn to pain medication when they are induced, I've written an article on how to labor with an epidural. Check out Epidural Anesthesia for Birth.

In addition to suffering in the heat, if you are also suffering from back pain, check out my latest article on Back Pain in Pregnancy.

And don't forget to take your water bottle when you head out in your hot car this summer!

Brenda