The Heat is On: The Struggles of Being Heavily Pregnant in the Summer and the Joys of Having a Fall Baby

As the mercury rises and the days grow longer, many of us look forward to the joys of summer—beach trips, barbecues, and basking in the sun. But if you’re heavily pregnant, summer can quickly lose its charm. From swelling feet to relentless heat, being pregnant during the hottest months can be a real challenge.

When you’re carrying extra weight and your internal thermostat is already set to high, summer’s heat can be unbearable. Finding relief from the heat becomes a constant struggle, and simple tasks like walking to the car can leave you drenched in sweat. Edema, or swelling of the feet and hands, is common in pregnancy, and it gets worse in the summer. The heat causes blood vessels to expand, making swelling more pronounced and uncomfortable. Getting a good night’s sleep is tough when you’re pregnant, but the summer heat makes it even harder. Even with air conditioning, finding a comfortable sleeping position can feel impossible. Outdoor activities are often off-limits due to the risk of overheating. This can lead to feeling cooped up and restless, especially when everyone else seems to be enjoying the summer. While summer fashion is typically light and breezy, finding maternity clothes that are both comfortable and cool can be tricky. Layers are out of the question, and you may end up feeling frumpy in the limited options available.

Despite the trials and tribulations of a summer pregnancy, the reward at the end is more than worth it. Here are five mega benefits of having a baby in the fall:

1. Moderate Weather: Fall brings relief with its mild temperatures, creating a comfortable environment for both mom and baby. The cooler weather is perfect for postpartum recovery and taking those first precious walks with your newborn.

2. Holiday Season Joy: Welcoming a baby in the fall means the holiday season will be extra special. Your little one will be a few months old by the time Thanksgiving and Christmas roll around, making family gatherings even more joyous and memorable. According to a study by the National Retail Federation, 70% of families report that having a new baby around the holidays significantly increases their overall happiness and sense of togetherness during this time.

3. School Year Advantage: Children born in the fall often have an academic edge when they start school. Studies have shown that children who are among the oldest in their class tend to perform better academically and exhibit greater social maturity. Research from the National Bureau of Economic Research indicates that fall-born children score higher on standardized tests and are more likely to attend prestigious colleges.

4. Seasonal Safety: Fall's moderate temperatures mean less risk of dehydration and overheating, which can be critical for a newborn's health. It's a safer season for ensuring your baby stays comfortably warm without the extreme measures needed in winter or summer. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that moderate temperatures help in maintaining a newborn's ideal body temperature more consistently.

5. Outdoor Activities: Fall offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities. Whether it’s a stroll through the park with vibrant foliage, a visit to a pumpkin patch, or simply enjoying the crisp autumn air, fall provides numerous opportunities for creating lasting memories with your newborn. Studies have shown that exposure to natural environments can significantly boost mental health and well-being, benefiting both parents and babies alike.

While being heavily pregnant in the summer can be a sweaty, uncomfortable challenge, the reward of having a fall baby is undeniably sweet. The moderate weather, holiday celebrations, academic advantages, seasonal safety, and outdoor activities make the effort worthwhile. Embrace the journey, knowing that cooler, more comfortable days are just around the corner, bringing with them the joys of welcoming your little one into the world.

Expecting a baby this fall? Our summer Prepped to Parent groups are almost sold out! Join one today.