Winter Pregnancy Safety

I remember my pregnancy Graeme well, and not just because it was after a loss but because it was a winter pregnancy between months 2 to 6!

Being pregnant in Canada during the winter is a huge challenge. You want to get out but the roads and sidewalks are slippery. It's cold and you're not sure how to dress. You want to stay active, but how?

After the first trimester fatigue passed, I was determined to keep up with running but that meant slippery surfaces and inconsistent weather. Then there are the times where the days seem to only last for a few hours and by the time you are home from work or whatnot, it's dark and the coziness of the couch and Netflix is calling your name.

If you want to stay active during the winter months of pregnancy, be mindful of a few things.

For footwear, consider putting extra traction on your running shoes. Head to your local running store for their individual recommendations and tell them what your goals are. If you are like me during pregnancy, maybe you're running three times a week and still training for races through your 8th month. Maybe you just want to take the dogs out for a walk every evening. No matter what your goal is, make sure you are wearing shoes that have extra traction for slippery surfaces.

Layering is the easiest way to dress for pregnant in winter. Consider thin layers that are easily tied around your waist or chest. Bring or wear a cheap pair of thin gloves that can be taken off and stuffed in a pocket when you overheat. I used to feel like I was overheating a lot during pregnancy when I was running, but having layers allowed me to take off simple things like ear warmers, gloves, a long sleeved tee shirt to make sure I was comfortable at all times.

Always always always tell someone where you are going and take you cell phone with you. If you can, take a mophie or battery backup with you just in case.

Lastly, follow your instincts. If you're not feeling up to you scheduled run or walk on a particular day, stay home. Pregnancy isn't the time to push your limits but is the time to listen to your body and your instincts.

Stay safe and warm. Be smart. And when all else fails.....

Couch
Blanket
Netflix

xoxo
Shannon

Tips for Surviving Winter Pregnancy

Being pregnant during the winter time has a whole host of challenges from the winter blues wreaking havoc on your already fragile hormones and emotions, to physical challenges of getting out and about with your bump...safely! Here are a few tips to help you survive your (beautiful) winter pregnancy.

 Stay Hydrated: Of course this is important in every pregnancy no matter what season we are in. However, winter air is very dry and therefore makes us dehydrated faster. As you go about your day you’re going in and out of buildings with the heat blaring full blast and likely getting overheated. Ensure you drink more water than you think you need.  Dehydration can cause a lot of problems so it’s very important that you stay well hydrated. 

Venturing out into the bitter cold: Cause let’s be honest, that sounds like so much fun! Exercise is very important during pregnancy but being cooped up in your house isn’t a walk in the park.  Sign up for a prenatal exercise class! Not only does it get you out of the house the fact that it is pre-scheduled and already paid for is great motivation.  A yoga class or a Pilates class would be a great option, it can help ease back pain and possibly help you to control your breathing which will come in handy during labour.  Also, if you’re cooped up in your house then you are most likely not getting enough sunlight which also means you might not be getting enough Vitamin D. Consider taking a Vitamin D supplement, but of course check with your doctor beforehand.

Germs: They seem to run wild during the winter don’t they?  Most pregnant women are terrified of getting sick because it is hard to figure out what you can and cannot take to treat your symptoms (http://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/taking-medicine-during-pregnancy).  Don’t be afraid to be that crazy lady that washes her hands constantly, but make sure to keep lotion on you because your hands will dry out fast (because winter air is dry).

Pesky Slippery Sidewalks: Obviously if you’re walking around in the midst of winter you do not want to slip and fall.  Invest in some good, flat, non-slip boots! It will be well worth the money having the peace of mind.   Also, try not to carry anything too heavy since your centre of balance is already off.  If you do take a tumble and hit your belly call your doctor to make sure everything is ok with you and baby. Better safe than sorry right?

Winter Coat Doesn’t Fit: Heavy winter maternity coats can be quite pricey and it is hard to justify spending lots of money on something you’re only going to get short use of.  Of course you will need a winter coat, we do live in Canada, but it doesn’t have to be the most expensive coat out there.  Try layering up and wear an oversized sweater underneath your coat, or maybe even thermal underwear.  You may want to have a lighter layer underneath the warms ones just in case you have a tropical moment while you are out from all those buildings with the blaring heat!


When in doubt, we vote for movie dates in with take out and pajamas under a warm blanket. Let the snow fall outside....not your precious bump on the siewalk! Do things, and surround yourself with those, that make you abundantly happy and you will sail through winter pregnancy with ease.

xoxo
Stephanie