Staying Cool During Pregnancy

How Does Heat Affect Pregnancy?

Spending time outdoors can be great for you. But too much heat can make pregnancy more challenging and affect you and your baby’s health.

Extreme heat can lead to babies being born too early, being smaller than expected, or having health problems after birth. High temperatures can also make preterm labor more likely and make it harder for your baby to grow and stay healthy.

Heat during pregnancy can also affect your health. The heat can make you feel tired, dizzy, or sick. Extreme heat can lead to dehydration or overheating.

It’s important for you to stay cool when it's hot outside. Here are some tips to help you stay cool at home, work, and in your community during pregnancy.

Staying Cool at Home

Here are some tips to help you stay cool and comfortable at home:

Increase airflow: If you have an air conditioner, turn it on during the day when it’s hot outside. Open windows at night to let the cool air in.
Close curtains during the day: Keep the hot sun out by closing shades and curtains during the hottest hours.
Use a fan with ice: Put a bowl of ice in front of your fan to make the air feel cooler.
Add indoor plants: Put plants inside your home or on your balcony to help keep the air cooler and cleaner and to provide shade.
Take advantage of Boston’s energy assistance programs: These programs can help you save money on energy bills and make small changes to keep your home cooler. They maye also provide financial support, help with new appliances, and assistance paying utility bills and rent.

Staying Cool at Work

Here’s how you can stay cool at work when the heat hits:

Sip water: Keep a water bottle handy and drink regularly to stay hydrated.
Cool down during breaks: Spend your breaks in a cool area, such as a room with air conditioning.
Dress comfortably: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes to help you stay cooler.
Use a fan: Set up a small fan at your desk for a little extra breeze.

There is a law that allows you to request things at work to keep you and your baby safe during pregnancy. This can include extra breaks, a cooler workspace, a seat, or water. Your boss must listen, treat you fairly, and protect your job while you’re pregnant.

Staying Cool in Your Community

The City of Boston provides community cooling resources during heat waves, including:

Cooling centers: Boston Public Library branches and BCYF community centers serve as official cooling centers. Some churches, businesses, and community spaces may also open their doors to help you stay cool.
Cool kits and cool zones: Boston offers free "Cool Kits" with water, sunscreen, and other helpful items. You can also visit pop-up "Cool Zones" with misters, hammocks, and popsicles to stay comfortable outdoors.
Recreation areas with water features: Parks, pools, beaches, and playgrounds are great places to cool off and have fun on hot days.

Find your local cooling spots on this resource map.

Staying cool and hydrated—and using available resources at home, at work, and in your community—can help you and your baby stay comfortable and healthy during hot weather.