How Sun Exposure Can Affect Your Baby?

A sunny day that exudes positivism could be your idea of happiness. However, when you are pregnant, the situation may alter. With people continually telling you what to do and what not to do, you could feel self-conscious about everything. If you enjoy relaxing in the sun and soaking up the sunshine, you may be wondering if exposing pregnant belly to sunlight during pregnancy is a good idea or a bad idea. To learn more, keep reading.

Sun-exposure/Sunbathing During Pregnancy: Good Idea or Bad Idea?

Does sun exposure during pregnancy harm my sunshine (baby)? Don’t worry, exposing pregnant belly to sunlight will not harm your baby, but it’s always a good idea to cover up with a wet cloth, a sarong, or a complete dress. Because the amniotic fluid is also essential for keeping a steady temperature for the baby’s development, covering the baby bump prevents heat build-up or heat attacks. 

Benefits of Sun-exposure During Pregnancy:

Sun exposure during pregnancy has been linked to a number of health benefits for both mother and baby. What are some of these benefits? Let’s go through them! 

– Improve bones health

– Provide vitamin-d

– Promote good mental health

– Stress reduction

– Lower blood pressure

– Boost immune system

Note: Pregnant women should get at least 15 minutes of direct sun exposure daily. 

Risks of Sun-exposure During Pregnancy?

Increased sensitivity to sunshine or sunbathing during pregnancy might result in complications for both you and your baby. The following are some of the troubles that may emerge as a result of long sun exposure during pregnancy.

Skin Cancer:

Pregnant ladies need to pay close attention to this. According to one study, pregnant women who are exposed to UV rays for extended periods of time can get skin cancer. This is related to the sunburns that result from a long sunbath. As previously said, pregnant women are more prone to skin sensitivity, which raises the risk of sunburn.

Melasma:

This condition, sometimes known as a pregnancy mask, can cause skin discolouration. Hormonal changes during pregnancy might cause an increase in melanin synthesis. This disorder can exacerbate sensitivity by causing your skin to lose colour when exposed to direct sunlight.

Dehydration:

While you may enjoy sunbathing during pregnancy, dehydration may occur if you do not drink enough water. Although this is a normal occurrence regardless of whether or not you are pregnant, the adverse effects of pregnancy may manifest rapidly. Dehydration in pregnant women can raise the heart rate and limit the oxygen level flowing to the foetus.

Breaking in Folic Acid

Excessive sun exposure in pregnant women can cause a drop in folate levels. If this occurs, it may result in miscarriages or neural tube disorders in newborns. Folic acid is essential, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy, and UV rays can diminish folate levels, so limit your sun exposure during pregnancy.

Sunbathing During Pregnancy Help Guide: Trimester Wise!

Pregnant Sunbathing During 1st Trimester:

The first trimester of pregnancy is the most fragile, requiring extra care to avoid sunburn, dehydration, and exhaustion. Drink lots of water, eat foods high in vitamins and minerals, use sunscreen frequently, and balance hours of sunlight with bouts of shade. During the day’s midpoint, take a nap so that your body can recover.

Pregnant Sunbathing During 2nd Trimester:

During the second trimester, it is extremely important to pay close attention to pregnancy marks, which are extremely difficult to remove after deliveries. In addition to sunscreen, it is best to avoid the middle of the day and wear a big floppy hat to prevent direct sun exposure and defend your face and shoulders. In nutshell, make sure you watch out for sudden swings in temperature and keep your distance.

Pregnant Sunbathing During 3rd Trimester:

The third trimester is the smoothest compared to the last two trimesters, though you can start having some issues with your legs’ vascular systems. Your legs may bulge or get heavier during the last few weeks of pregnancy, so enjoy a stroll in the water to relieve your discomfort, but don’t forget to avoid spending too much time sitting or lying down in sun exposure, and always favour the mornings.

Last Verdict

As now you mumma’s know, a relaxing sunbath may not be safe as the thought of; that doesn’t mean you’ve to completely avoid sunlight but you should just make sure overheating can cause you trouble. Furthermore, want to know more pregnancy tips & trick, Dr Anushri Shah & team of divine mother has got your back. Get in touch with us for more queries!