Sea, pool and sun in pregnancy: what to keep in mind on a summer holiday

Being pregnant when you have a summer holiday planned, or having a pregnancy that lands in the summer months, is very common. The good news is that sea and pool are soothing and enjoyable in most healthy pregnancies. What needs attention is less the water itself than the effect of the sun and heat.

The benefits of being in the water

Water carries your weight, which eases the load on your back and legs, may reduce swelling and makes moving easier. See the Guide article on swimming and water exercise. Staying a short time in clean, not-too-warm water is generally fine.

Time in the sun and heatstroke

Body temperature rises more easily in pregnancy and the heart and circulation work harder. So a good rule is to avoid direct sun around midday (roughly 11 to 4). Shade, a wide-brimmed hat and light, pale clothing help. Signs of heat exhaustion include marked tiredness, dizziness, headache, nausea, a fast heartbeat, very little urine and very hot skin.

Drinking enough

Drink water regularly, even before you feel thirsty, and carry a bottle. Dark yellow urine can point to too little fluid. Water and options like ayran are better than sugary, ice-cold drinks. For street food and ice cream on holiday, see the Guide article on Turkish cuisine.

Chlorine and pool hygiene

Swimming in a well-maintained pool is generally fine. If the chlorine smell is very strong or your eyes and nose sting, the water may not be properly treated; choose another pool. Shower after leaving the pool and do not stay in a wet swimsuit for long; this helps lower the risk of yeast and urinary infections. Avoid crowded, poorly maintained ponds and still water.

Slipping and falling

Pool edges, steps and wet beaches carry a bigger risk in pregnancy because your balance has changed. Wear non-slip sandals, do not run, do not dive in and stay away from water slides. Do not swim in rough or strongly current-prone sea.

Melasma and sunscreen

Brown patches (melasma) may appear on the face in pregnancy, especially on the forehead and cheeks, and sun makes them worse. Reapply broad-spectrum, high-protection sunscreen every 2 hours and after leaving the water; add a hat and sunglasses. For choosing ingredients, see the Guide article on skincare products.

8 practical holiday tips

1. Rest in the shade or somewhere cool during the midday heat.
2. Drink water every hour; keep a bottle and a snack with you.
3. Apply sunscreen generously and reapply.
4. Wear non-slip sandals and walk slowly on wet floors.
5. Take a break in the pool before 20 to 30 minutes; get out when you tire.
6. Stay away from very hot hot tubs and pools.
7. If you are travelling, read the travel article too and get your doctor’s approval.
8. Carry a doctor’s note or your pregnancy record.

Your beach and pool bag

Pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, high-protection sunscreen, a water bottle, a light snack, a towel and non-slip sandals. Bring a parasol or shade. A spare swimsuit is handy so you are not left in a wet one. A short shower after the sea keeps salt and sand off your skin. When you feel tired, resting somewhere cool and indoors is better than lying on the beach.

When to contact your doctor

• Extreme tiredness, dizziness, a feeling of fainting or a high temperature
• Very little or dark urine, constant nausea
• Abdominal pain, regular contractions, bleeding or a leak of fluid
• Pain or swelling in one leg
• A clear decrease in your baby’s movements
• A blow to the belly or back after a slip

In an emergency, call 112 (in Turkey) or your local emergency number.

Frequently asked questions

Does swimming in the sea harm the baby? Swimming in clean, calm sea is generally fine. Avoid very cold water, waves and currents.

Can I lie in the sun to tan? Long direct sunbathing raises the risk of heat illness and melasma; spending time in the shade and protected is better.

This article is for general information; talking to your doctor about your holiday plans is best.