How to stay safe in the sun while pregnant

Sunscreen

Protecting yourself from harmful UV rays is more important than ever. Your skin produces pigments using cells called melanocytes and during pregnancy, they are overactive, making your skin more susceptible to sunburns. Although a sunburn may be mildly uncomfortable to you, it can turn up the heat in your belly which may not be healthy for your growing baby.[1] Make sure you are using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours or more.[2] Ensure that this lotion protects you from both UVA and UVB rays which can cause skin discoloration during pregnancy. Make sure you rub in your lotion as opposed to just spraying and if possible, look for a lotion without oil. Pregnancy hormones can make women more prone to acne.

Shade time

Take time out from sunbathing to sit in the shade, head into some air conditioning or cool of in the pool. This will reduce the chances of overheating, overexposure, and dehydration, all of which can be associated with pre-term contractions.[3] No shade in sight? Cover that belly bump with some sun-protective clothing.

Lots of liquids

Staying hydrated is key to enjoying the sun while pregnant.[4] Sipping cold water constantly will ensure that your body temperature stays low enough that both you and baby are comfortable. When it is very hot, you are also losing additional body fluids through sweat, so it is important that you keep your fluids topped up.

Enjoy the sunshine wholeheartedly – just ensure that you take precautions with the sun to protect both you and your baby bump.

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[1] https://www.fitpregnancy.com/pregnancy/pregnancy-health/six-sunscreen-rules-follow-when-you-re-pregnant

[2] https://www.livestrong.com/article/513981-is-it-safe-to-lay-out-in-the-sun-while-pregnant/

[3] https://thestir.cafemom.com/pregnancy/105253/4_things_a_pregnant_woman

[4] https://www.babymed.com/lifestyle-and-beauty/sunbathing-and-sun-exposure-pregnancy