Winter is over and spring is upon us. The flowers are starting to bloom and the world is waking up around us.

Soon summer will be upon here. The season of shorts, bathing suits, backyard BBQ’s, and outdoor weddings.

It’s also the season with the greatest number of childbirths. Of course it is! Those long, cold winter days always result in new life being created.

In the United States, August is the month with the highest amount of births – over 350,000, followed closely by the month of July with 349,000 births on average according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

There are 3.9 million births on average per year in the U.S. That’s a lot of babies!

Thousands of mothers-to-be carry life into and throughout the summer months. It’s a phenomenon that occurs every year.

So, here you are. Pregnant with a growing belly and concerned about what the summer months will hold you for.

Will you be comfortable?

How will you cope with the rising heat?

What can you do to make your pregnancy as pleasant as possible?

We know summer pregnancies aren’t always easy. Your questions and concerns have been heard. Here are 10 ways to beat the heat of summer during pregnancy.

1. Wear Comfortable Clothing

That’s right! Clothing with a proper fit and made for the season can make all the difference.

Wear loose fitting maternity clothing such as this top from Sofsy.

Grab a few staple pieces that you can mix and match or take from day to evening easily.

Try to avoid layering during the summer. If you must wear layers, make sure all the layers are made from lightweight breathable fabrics.

2. Stay Hydrated!

We can’t emphasize this enough.

Dehydration is a major problem for many pregnant women.

The heat of summer makes it more of an issue because our bodies will sweat as a cool off mechanism, even without much activity.

Drink plenty of water. As much water as you can stand. About 1 gallon per day should do it.

Yes, that sounds like a lot but if you carry a handy water bottle with you throughout the day and keep refilling it, you’ll hit your desired water intake with no problem.

Check out this awesome eco-friendly water bottle from Swell Shop.

Organic coconut water is also a great hydrator. Alternate between the H2O and coconut water through the day, to keep your fluid intake high.

3. Find Indoor Activities

We know the sun is shining and you want to get out and enjoy it.

That’s fine, but don’t shy away from air conditioned indoor activities.

Find a good movie, stage play, or take the other children to an indoor play place.

Take a break from the heat if only for a few hours and enjoy the AC.

Make sure you kick your feet up when possible to ward off swelling.

4. Do Outdoor Activities In The Morning Or Evening

The coolest times of day are early mornings and evenings after sunset.

Try to schedule your activities for those times of day.

You’ll appreciate the break from the summer heat.

Keep outside time to a minimum during the heat of midday. It’s the hottest time of day and can create an environment for overheating during pregnancy.

5. Wear A Straw Hat

With so many styles to choose from surely you can find a cute straw hat to wear as a compliment to your summer dress.

The hat will protect your head from the beating sun, while allowing you to stay cool.

Here’s one of our favorites from Sloggers.

6. Take A Long Dip In The Pool

Pools are a lifesaver during the summer. Don’t be afraid of the water. Spend some time enjoying yourself at the pool and you’ll enjoy the relief it brings.

If you’re not a swimmer don’t worry. Sit pool side and dip your feet in the water.

The amazing effects of cooling of your feet and ankles will help to cool off your whole body.

Swimming will definitely keep you cool and also has a host of other benefits.

Take a look at this great article on swimming during pregnancy by WhattoExpect.com.

7. Nap, And Nap Often!

We know the struggle.

Your body is working hard to grow a healthy and beautiful baby. You’re tired and hot.

Take as many naps as you can near a fan or in an air conditioned room.

The cool air will help you sleep and get the rest you need.

If you have small children, take naps when they take theirs. It’s a win win for everybody.

8. Stay Away From Dark Clothing

You know it! Dark clothes hold heat.

Wear lightly colored clothing in a breathable fabric when you’re out and about.

The lighter the fabric the better.

We love black too, but sometimes we have to take a chance on something new.

Find a great color to compliment your skin tone and go with that.

9. Change Your Exercise Regimen

Be sure to exercise at the cooler times of the day.

Modify your level of activity so that you don’t overheat. Do not over-exert yourself. Be sure to keep plenty of water close by.

If you need to stop for a while later in pregnancy, go right ahead. You can resume exercise once you’ve given birth and cleared it with your health-care provider.

10. Cool Compresses

Place a cool compress on your forehead or back of the neck to help bring body temperature down and reduce sweating.

Leave it there until it warms up from your body heat, run under cold water again and reapply.

A great way to take a cool compress with you on the go is to purchase a gel compress. Amazon.com has a great selection to choose from.

Summertime pregnancies don’t have to be difficult. By altering your daily schedule if possible and taking a few steps to keep your cool and be more comfortable, you can breeze through your pregnancy flawlessly.