Spring is a time of renewal, growth, and new beginnings—the perfect metaphor for the journey of pregnancy! As the world around you blooms, your body is also undergoing incredible changes to nurture the new life growing inside.
While spring can bring a sense of joy and anticipation, it also presents unique challenges for expecting mothers. From navigating seasonal allergies to adapting to changing weather patterns, a spring pregnancy may require some extra care and attention. But don't worry, mama—with a few simple spring pregnancy tips and a positive mindset, you can embrace all that this beautiful season has to offer while staying safe and comfortable.
Managing Pregnancy During Spring Months
As winter melts away and temperatures start to rise, it's important to be mindful of how the changing weather can affect your pregnant body.
Staying Comfortable During a Spring Pregnancy
Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can make you more sensitive to temperature fluctuations, so dressing in layers is key. Choose breathable, natural fabrics like cotton and linen that allow your skin to breathe and regulate your body temperature. Look for dresses, tops, and bottoms made from stretchy, breathable fabrics that have plenty of room for your growing bump!
It's also important to stay active and engage in regular exercise throughout your spring pregnancy. Listen to your body and engage in gentle activities like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga to help boost your energy, reduce stress, and prepare your body for labor and delivery. If you’re a runner, spring is the perfect season to hit the trails before it gets too warm! As always, check in with your healthcare provider if you have any questions about exercising while pregnant.
And don't forget to stay hydrated! Aim for 8-12 ounces of water per day to support your growing baby and keep yourself feeling energized.
Make sure to get plenty of rest, too. Pregnancy can be exhausting, and it's not uncommon to feel more fatigued than usual as your body works hard to support your growing baby. Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep per night, and don't be afraid to take short naps during the day if you need them.
Pregnancy and Seasonal Allergies
Pregnant or not, springtime isn’t just about warmer temperatures and blooming flowers! It can also mean nasal congestion, itchy eyes, a sore throat, and even a runny nose for those with seasonal allergies. Asthma, hay fever, and other allergies are common during pregnancy, which is why for many people, spring is synonymous with allergy season.
For some, a stuffy nose is nothing new but for others, studies suggest pregnancy may cause women to develop allergies. Additionally, if you're pregnant and prone to seasonal allergies, you may find that your symptoms are more intense than usual. This is because pregnancy hormones can cause the mucous membranes in your nose to swell, making you more susceptible to irritation from pollen and other allergens.
Managing Seasonal Allergy Symptoms
To minimize symptoms, try to limit your exposure to allergy triggers as much as possible. Keep windows closed on high pollen days, and consider using an air purifier in your home. When you do go outside, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and consider wearing a mask or light scarf over your nose and mouth to filter out allergens.
While some over-the-counter oral allergy medications are safe for use during pregnancy, nasal spray usage should be limited. While a nasal spray can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passageways, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider before use or starting any other allergy treatments. Your healthcare provider will have more information about pregnancy-safe allergy medications or natural remedies that can provide relief. In fact, some pregnant women find that using a neti pot to rinse out their nasal passages or drinking pregnancy-safe herbal teas with honey can help alleviate symptoms without the need for medication.
Embracing Spring Activities While Pregnant
Spring also means longer days and more sunshine, which can be a great mood booster. Just because you're expecting doesn't mean you have to miss out on all the fun of spring!
If you love gardening, go ahead and get your hands dirty! Just remember to protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen, as pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive to sunburn, and be sure to wear gloves to protect yourself from soil-borne illnesses. Take frequent breaks to rest and hydrate while you connect with nature.
Spring is also the perfect time to explore your local farmers market and stock up on fresh, seasonal produce. Challenge yourself to try a new vegetable each week, and experiment with healthy, spring-inspired recipes.
And don't forget about spring cleaning! While you may not have the energy for a full house overhaul, tackling small organizing projects can help you feel more prepared for your baby's arrival. Focus on decluttering and organizing key areas like the nursery, your bedroom, and the kitchen. Enlist the help of your partner, family, or friends to make the process more manageable and enjoyable.
A Spring State of Mind
Perhaps the most important tip for surviving and thriving during a spring pregnancy is to embrace the season's spirit of renewal and growth, mama. Take time each day to connect with your growing baby, whether it's through prenatal yoga, meditation, or simply talking to your bump.
Surround yourself with positivity and seek out the support of other pregnant women who understand what you're going through. Join a prenatal exercise class, attend a childbirth education workshop, or connect with other moms-to-be online. Creating a community of support can help you feel less alone and more empowered throughout your pregnancy journey. Start building your online community by joining our Facebook group: The Pumping Room—we can't wait to welcome you!
And don't forget to take time for self-care and relaxation. Treat yourself to a prenatal massage, take a warm bath with soothing essential oils, or curl up with a good book and a cup of herbal tea. Nurturing yourself during this special time is just as important as nurturing your growing baby.
Welcome Seasons of Change
Remember, mama, the team at Aeroflow Breastpumps is here to support you throughout every moment of your pregnancy and postpartum journey. Reach out when you’re ready to find your breast pump through insurance. We also have resources and support available to help you prepare for birth, set breastfeeding goals, and more! If this is the start of your pregnancy journey, check out our guides for surviving a summer, autumn, and winter pregnancy!
Spring is the season of change and by making small adjustments to your lifestyle, you can make the most of this fresh and lively season. As you navigate the joys and challenges of a spring pregnancy, remember that every journey is unique. Trust your instincts, listen to your body, and don't hesitate to reach out for help and support when you need it.
With a little extra care and a positive outlook, you can bloom right alongside the flowers this spring and look forward to the incredible journey of motherhood ahead.
