Pregnancy can become a little difficult to manage during winters. The onset of winter calls for extra care to be taken by pregnant mothers. The following are some practical tips to help pregnant mothers sail through winter safely:

• Drink plenty of water: Winter subconsciously makes us drink less water. However, as winters are times of extended dryness, the body needs extra water during winters. It is a good idea to set reminders in your mobiles to help you keep drinking enough water throughout the day.

• Get a flu shot: Winter is the season of cold and flu and it is advisable for pregnant women to take a flu shot. Winters weaken your immune system, leaving you and your baby at increased risks of communicable diseases.

• Dress snugly: It is imperative for pregnant ladies to keep themselves warm and comfortable during winters. You can experiment with a number of wearables to make yourself look and feel good: wear a tank top or a t-shirt, along with a cardigan, a buttoned shirt, and your favourite warm, snuggly sweater.

• Get cured for cold: If you suffer from cold and flu for more than three days, it is advisable to see a doctor.

• Wash your hands regularly: Washing your hands regularly is the best way to avoid disease-causing germs from entering your body. It is advisable to wash your hands each time you run an errand. In case you find it too tiring to make so many frequent trips to the sink, keep a hand sanitiser handy.

• Stay indoors as much as possible: Pregnancy causes your body to become more vulnerable to diseases. This can be dangerous if your body is regularly exposed to extreme weather conditions and high exposure to germs outdoors. During pregnancy, the body also takes a lot of time getting accustomed to weather changes. It is advisable to stay in the warmth and comfort of your home until the weather improves.

(The author is a senior consultant, obstetrics & gynaecology, Apollo Cradle, Bengaluru)