Summer in South Carolina means plenty of sunshine—but also high temperatures and humidity. Pregnancy can make you more susceptible to dehydration and heat-related illness, so taking a few extra precautions can help you stay comfortable and safe during the warmer months.
Here are a few tips for navigating a summer pregnancy.
1. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids is especially important during pregnancy and hot weather. Carry a water bottle with you and drink regularly throughout the day rather than waiting until you feel thirsty.
Water is usually the best choice for staying hydrated. If you have been sweating for an extended period, talk with your healthcare provider about whether you may need to replace electrolytes as well.
A few simple ways to make drinking water easier include:
- Keep a refillable water bottle with you throughout the day.
- Add fresh lemon, lime, cucumber, or fruit to your water for flavor.
- Try sparkling water if you enjoy it.
- Drink extra fluids when you’re spending time outdoors or being physically active.
Your individual fluid needs can vary, so talk with your healthcare provider if you have questions about how much you should drink during pregnancy.
2. Enjoy the Water
Swimming can be a refreshing way to stay active and cool during pregnancy. It is a low-impact activity and may feel especially comfortable as your pregnancy progresses.
If your healthcare provider has told you to limit physical activity, ask what activities are appropriate for you before exercising.
And don’t forget sun protection when you’re outside. Seek shade when possible, wear sunscreen and protective clothing, and consider enjoying outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the morning or evening.
3. Choose Light, Comfortable Clothing
Loose, lightweight clothing can help you stay more comfortable when temperatures climb. Breathable fabrics and comfortable shoes may be especially helpful if you’re spending time outdoors.
On extremely hot days, spend time in air-conditioned places whenever possible and limit strenuous outdoor activities.
4. Give Yourself Time to Rest
Pregnancy itself can leave you feeling tired, and summer heat may make you feel even more drained.
When possible, take breaks throughout the day and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. If you need to be outside, look for shade and give yourself opportunities to cool down.
Listen to your body. Pregnancy isn’t the time to push through dizziness, weakness, nausea, headache, or other signs that you may be getting overheated.
5. Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness
Pregnancy can make it harder for your body to cool itself, which increases the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses.
Symptoms may include dizziness, headache, weakness, nausea, muscle cramps, unusually heavy sweating, or shortness of breath.
If you begin feeling overheated or unwell, move to a cooler place, rest, and drink fluids. Seek medical care if your symptoms are severe, do not improve, or you are concerned about how you are feeling.
Enjoy Your Summer Safely
Being pregnant during a South Carolina summer may take a little extra planning, but simple steps like staying hydrated, keeping cool, resting when you need to, and paying attention to how you’re feeling can make a difference.
If you have questions about pregnancy, Daybreak LifeCare Center is here to help. Our nurses can answer questions and provide pregnancy information and support in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Our services are confidential and provided at no cost. Call us at 803-771-6634 to learn more or schedule an appointment.
Sources
Heat and Pregnancy.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). June 25, 2024.
https://www.cdc.gov/heat-health/risk-factors/heat-and-pregnancy.html
About Heat and Your Health.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). July 20, 2026.
https://www.cdc.gov/heat-health/about/index.html