Summer is an ideal time to relax, sunbathe and take a bath in the sea or the pool. But if you are pregnant, you may wonder if it is dangerous to expose yourself to the sun during this stage. The sun is a source of life and energy and, taken in moderation, provides vitamin D that helps strengthen bones. it also improves mood and promotes relaxation. But, if it is advisable for anyone to take some precautions, in the case of pregnant women these should be extreme.
During pregnancy the skin is much more sensitive due to hormonal changes so it is more prone to appearance of spots or hyperpigmented areas. In addition, the skin of the abdomen is much more distended so it can burn more easily. Therefore, if you are pregnant and you want to sunbathe safely, you should take into account some tips.
How to sunbathe during pregnancy
- Do not expose yourself to the sun in the central hours of the day (between 11:00 and 17:00)
- uses a high factor sunscreen. Apply it 30 minutes before sun exposure and renew the application every two hours or after each bath.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking water is always recommended but in summer it is even more so. Try to drink two liters of water a day.
- Use the sun cream even if you are in the shade. The water and sand reflect the sun.
- Protect your face with hat and sunglasses.
- Don't stay in the sun for a long time. Remember that during pregnancy the body temperature increases and you can suffer a heat stroke that can affect your baby.
- It is preferable that you sunbathe on the move instead of lying on the towel. If you are on the beach, walking along the shore will help you cool off, activate circulation and obtain a more even tan.
- If you wear a bikini remember apply sunscreen also on the belly. The sun can obscure the linea alba that pregnant women usually get from the navel.
As you see, during the summer you can sunbathe calmly as long as you do it with caution and moderation. Enjoy the sun and the summer by following all the above tips.