Freie Hansestadt Bremen
Heat wave Information Center
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Pregnant people

A pregnant woman is seated, wearing a turquoise top. Only her upper body is visible.

The pregnant people body changes as the result of the pregnancy. In order to provide optimal care for the unborn baby, the blood volume of the pregnant woman increases and the cardiovascular system is put under greater strain. Heat puts an additional strain on the circulation, because the body reacts to the heat with increased blood flow to the skin to release the excess heat. This can lead to low blood pressure and dizziness in pregnant women. Another consequence is swollen legs and feet.
Breathing can also be restricted, as the lungs have less space due to the baby.

Dehydration

Heat causes the already higher fluid requirement to increase even further during pregnancy. At the same time, pregnant women sweat more. If this fluid loss is not compensated for in time by drinking enough, it can easily lead to dehydration and a loss of electrolytes.

You can recognise dehydration by these signs:

  • Thirst
  • Dry mouth and mucous membranes
  • Headache, dizziness, weakness
  • Little urge to urinate
  • Dark urine
  • Confusion
  • Heart palpitations
  • Muscle cramps

Heat protection

Eine schwangere Frau sitzt im Schatten, angelehnt an einen Baum, und hält ihren Bauch.

In addition to our general tips, you can protect yourself from heat as a pregnant people:

  • Drink small amounts every 15 to 20 minutes: water, isotonic drinks, diluted juices or broth.
  • Take regular breaks in the shade – even if you don’t feel acutely uncomfortable.
  • Take an afternoon nap if you can
  • Put your feet up
  • Compression stockings can help against swollen legs.
  • To cool down, a foot bath with water or a cool washcloth on the forehead or neck
  • Ask those around you for support with everyday things
  • For people near a pregnant people: actively offer pregnant women a seat.
Farbverlauf rot blau · Leo Lindl