Hey there, mamas-to-be. Being pregnant in the summer means paying attention to certain natural forces working against you, namely the heat and humidity. Because I suffered so much during the summer, with swollen feet and legs and an aching belly, I’ve put together some tips for those of you who are pregnant during these sticky summer months. Many are tips that came straight from my doctor while others I picked up on my own. I hope they help you out and please weigh in with your own tips below.

How did you survive being pregnant during the summer? Please weigh in below.

1. Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!

The unforgiving summer heat will suck the water right out of your skin and body, making you feel tired and sluggish. This can happen twice as fast when you’re pregnant, because your baby is digesting tons of water, too. Pregnancy dehydration can harm you and your baby, so remember keep ahead of it. Invest in a light, reusable water bottle (like the Hip water bottles we are giving away below) that you can fill up many times a day. You can throw ice cubes, fresh lemon, or even aloe vera juice in there for some added refreshment and nutrients. Fruits (especially watermelon, cantaloupe and organs) also can be great sources of water. Avoid super salty foods like pizza, chips, and salted snacks. They might taste yummy in the moment but they’ll leave your craving even more water.

2. Dress for Success(ful ventilation)

Since I had three winter babies, and thus three summer pregnancies (which I spent in the heat and squalor of NYC), I got accustomed to feeling sticky and yicky, yet I did discover little fashion tricks that helped me stay a little cooler and more comfortable. I grew to favor maternity summer dresses that were loose and airy, allowing my belly, legs and arms to breathe; I found them much more comfortable than pants or shorts. I love maxi dresses to this day! All dresses are great for summer pregnancies, but maxis provide that little extra bit of sun shield for you legs. You also can wrap a thin beach-coverall on top if you want to shield your arms. If your inner thighs are bugging you when the rub together (sorry but that does happen) apply baby powder.

3. These Shoes are Made for Walking

Walking helps prevent swollen feet during pregnancy and relieves stress, encouraging healthy breathing and keeping your legs and arms strong. Invest in a comfortable yet airy pair of sneakers or walking shoes to ensure you can walk and stand on your feet for extended periods. Avoid high-heels and look for simple, cushioned-sole sandals. Remember that your feel will swell and grow in size during pregnancy so when shopping for footwear, lean big.

4. Kick back and put ‘em up

Carve out time from even the busiest of days to put those feet up mama! Swollen feet, a heavy, pregnant belly, and excessive heat can hurt your circulation, resulting in leg veins, so make sure to stay on top of this. Whether you’re at work or sitting at home, take your shoes off, put a pillow on your desk or couch, and let your feet rest up high, ideally higher than your hips. To further alleviate swelling, indulge in a foot massage. Oh, and say goodbye to the guilt since it’s not for you, it’s for baby!

5. Good Old Fashioned Rest

You can’t make a human without resting, so make sure you get tons of it! Heat wears you out, especially if you’re chasing after other kids or working while pregnant. Take the time you need to rejuvenate by napping, laying down, reading a book, or anything else to just destress and relax. Try to delegate whenever you can to get off your feet, assigning chores to other household members (yup!). Move any task you can onto the couch or a chair: folding laundry, organizing closets, even drying dishes — try to do all these things while sitting down. If you subtract 20 minutes of standing up time three times a day, that’s a whole hour. The days are long when you are pregnant so you have to think of it like this and create a strategy that keeps you as rested and energetic as possible.

Well there ya have it, mommas! Surviving summer pregnancy is all about the basics. Keep cool, hydrated, and rested and baby will surely thank you. Share in the comments below some of your hacks for surviving summer pregnancy. Keep cool and happy summer!