First comes the pregnancy announcement. Then, for some moms, there's the realization that the pregnancy will overlap with the summer. Summer is already hot and sticky without adding a baby belly to the mix, and when you're pregnant there are hot flashes, chafing, and/or nausea without the summer heat. But it's not all bad! There are lots of amazing reasons why it's the best to be pregnant in the summer. To start, there may be intense weather, but that means no cumbersome coats to fit over bellies or worrying about slipping on ice. Then there's cute sundresses and looser clothing to wear and two words: ice cream.
That said, there still may be summer-specific pregnancy struggles, namely involving the heat. It's important for mamas-to-be to keep cool during this time by drinking plenty of water and just spending a little more time indoors. If you need a little extra help getting through the sunnier days of the year, that's where we come in.
We've rounded up some essentials that moms can make sure to arm themselves with if they're heading into this summer while pregnant. From personal fans to breezy outfits to comfy sandals, this list isn't just about keeping cool, it's also about comfort (we're looking at you, swollen feet).
Hands-Free Personal Fan
Summer is hot for everyone, but when you're pregnant, add a few degrees to that. Pregnant women have an increased amount of blood in their body, so it causes them to feel warmer than most people. Mixed with the summer heat, a pregnant woman can feel extra toasty! Try this hands-free personal fan from Amazon to cool off.
Hand Free Personal Fan ($11, Amazon)
Sunscreen
Whether you're pregnant or not, protecting that skin with sunscreen is essential. If taking a trip to the beach, sitting in your backyard, or even spending the day out shopping, wear sunscreen. With over 40,000 likes and a 4.5-star rating, this facial sunscreen by Supergoop is one of the most popular options around. It's a lightweight, scentless sunscreen that works on all skin types and is clinically proven to offer both UVA and UVB protection. This brand also has sunscreens for the body.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 ($44, Sephora)
Floppy Hat
Hats are a great way to block the sun. This tan and white striped floppy hat from Target is a statement piece that you can wear as you sit by the pool in your bathing suit, with a simple shorts set, or pair it with a breezy maxi dress for a cute style. The 6-inch brim offers plenty of sun protection. The floppier the better.
Floppy Hat ($15, Target)
Hydration Tracking Water Bottle
Summer and dehydration are two things that go together like peanut butter and jelly. Keep track of water intake with this Pink Glow Bottle. Follow the time markers set for every hour of the day, reminding you to drink more water as you go on with your schedule. Made from 100% BPA-free tritan plastic, it’s lightweight and shatter resistant.
Hydration Tracking Water Bottle ($16, Amazon)
Crocs Women's Sexi Flip
Keep things cool and comfortable for your feet. Summer often means a bit more walking than usual, whether at a fair or on vacation — so having supported and breathable footwear is essential. The sophisticated Sexi Flip sandal features a unique T-strap design and the form-fitting comfort you love from Crocs, all in a sleek, barely-there look that’s sure to turn heads in spring, summer, and beyond.
Crocs Women's Sexi Flip ($30, Crocs)
Destructed Maternity Shortalls
Mamas-to-be can wear overalls, too. An easy-to-pair laid-back outfit staple. Comfortable and slightly distressed, these denim shortalls take you through all 40+ weeks (thanks adjustable straps). They're made of 80% cotton, 18% polyester, 2% spandex in a
cross hatch denim. Available in black, a dark blue wash, and a medium blue wash, throw them on over a tee, and you're set.
Destructed Maternity Shortalls ($65, Motherhood Maternity)
Deodorant
Everyone needs a good deodorant, but they're vital for moms-to-be who can expect to do some sweating during the summer months. This deodorant from Malin + Goetz eucalyptus deodorant is synthesized with refreshing natural eucalyptus extract and odor-neutralizing citronellyl to be appropriate for all skin types, especially sensitive. It's formulated without aluminum, alcohol, or parabens, allowing the body to function naturally. Another plus is that it absorbs residue-free and has a natural fragrance and color.
Malin + Goetz Eucalyptus Deodorant ($22, Malin + Goetz)
A Cute Maternity Swimsuit
The Keyhole Detail Maternity Tankini has got you covered, mama. This two-piece style includes a full coverage maternity swim skirt and a supportive, sweetheart tankini top with a keyhole detail. Feel confident and pool party ready all pregnancy long in this UPF 50+ suit. Made of 82% nylon and 18% spandex that can be machine washed or dry cleaned.
Keyhole Detail Maternity Tankini 2 Piece Swimsuit UPF 50+ ($30, Motherhood Maternity)
Anti-Chafe Products
As soon as it's sweat season, er summer, the thigh-chafing begins. Cut down on the irritating rubbing once and for all with a nontoxic anti-friction stick. The balm-like formula creates a barrier that sits on top of skin, allowing thighs that rub to glide smoothly against each other. Aloe, grapeseed oil, and antioxidant rich vitamin E provide extra hydration for happy, healthy skin!
Megababe Thigh Rescue ($14, Megababe Beauty)
A Mocktail Recipe Book
Put those feet up, sit back, and have a mocktail. It's something all mamas deserve and something mamas-to-be should take advantage of: delectable, refreshing soda- and juice-based blends that forgo the alcohol but keep the flavor. And there's more than a standard-issue Virgin Mary or a Shirley Temple on the menu here. Kester Thompson, a top bartender, whipped up a host of gourmet sensations. Yum!
Mocktails: The Complete Bartender's Guide ($18, Amazon)
Hamilton Beach Single Serve Blender
Summer is the perfect smoothie season! Get this blender and throw in some of your favorite fruits for a smoothie that makes both mom and baby happy. This single portion blender is compact enough to leave on the kitchen counter and features an easy, one-touch operation. Great for on-the-go, this blender includes a 14-ounce blending cup and travel lid.
Hamilton Beach 14oz Single Serve Blender ($18, Target)
Now Foods Lavender Essential Oil
There's a lot going on during a pregnancy, and when the day is done, there's nothing better than falling asleep peacefully. Calm things down with lavender essential oil used via aromatherapy, as long as the OB/GYN gives the green light. This brand is vegetarian, vegan, cruelty-free, non-GMO, and it's from a family-owned business.
Now Foods Lavender Essential Oil ($35, Thrive Market)
SheaMoisture Body Lotion
Many expecting moms already moisturize with lotion, but one that specializes in hydration can come in handy during the summer. We love this one from SheaMoisture because it's made with natural and certified organic ingredients, smells divine, and leaves skin feeling smooth and revived. A carefully formulated firming body lotion, it contains no parabens, no phthalates, and no mineral oil.
SheaMoisture Body Lotion ($9, Target)
Hatch Belly Mask
If a summer spa day isn't on the agenda, create that spa feeling at home with a belly facial! Seriously! This hydrating and biodegradable sheet mask is the ultimate self-care mama moment. It's a targeted treatment for pregnant bellies that helps minimize the appearance of stretch marks and scars during pregnancy and postpartum.
Hatch Belly Mask ($12, Hatch Collection)
Pregnancy Full Body Pillow
OK, so this one isn't necessarily summer-related, but moms always rave about pregnancy pillows. They allow for a better night's sleep, which may be hard in the heat. This one provides comfort throughout the night and the C-shape design gives support from head to toe. The 100% jersey knit cotton pillowcase makes your rest super soft.
PharMeDoc Pregnancy C Shaped Full Body Pillow ($49, Macy's)
Pine & River Cooling Weighted Blanket
Summer means usually means lighter bedding, but if mom is the type of person to need something on her despite the heat, this weighted and cooling blanket creates the best of both worlds. This one is 15 pounds, (there's also a 20-pound option). It's eco-friendly and sustainable (made of bamboo) and also machine washable.
Pine & River Cooling Weighted Blanket ($80, Amazon)
Cooling Headache Relief Wrap
Headaches are common, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy. This cooling and compressing wrap offers fast relief from hormonal and good old-fashioned headaches alike. Designed with comfort and style in mind (hello, super soft jersey fabric) so you can take care of yourself and look good doing it, pregnant or not. Now that's what we call a win-win. Note: This one sells out regularly, but may be available in Hatch stores.
Head Peace Cooling Headache Relief Wrap ($58, Hatch Collection)
Inflatable Family Lounge Pool
We love the idea of being able to lounge in the backyard while the little ones splash around. Or a first-time mom can enjoy a little lounge pool time to herself. This is a mini pool that both mom and/or the rest of the family can use — and it allows room for two adults and two kiddos. It features a backrest and elevated cushiony bench seat and two built-in cup holders, too!
Intex Swim Center Inflatable Family Lounge Pool ($87, Amazon)
Pink Stork Morning Sickness Sweets
These morning sickness lozenges are great to have around anytime of the year. The candies provide relief from nausea, pregnancy morning sickness, and digestive discomfort. The individually wrapped lozenges come in a natural ginger mango flavor, ginger raspberry, or peppermint flavor. Pink Stork Sweets are 100% organic and clean without gluten, wheat, dairy, artificial sugars or sweeteners, soy, and genetically modified ingredients.
Pink Stork Morning Sickness Sweets ($13, Hatch Collection)
H&M Sundress
Light and airy dresses are always a win during a summertime pregnancy. This short maternity dress comes in a soft, washed lyocell denim. The style is V-neck with flutter sleeves, and it has dainty shell buttons at the front. The elasticated seam below the bust is covered by a decorative tie belt that gives structure and style to the dress.
H&M MAMA Blue Maternity Lyocell Dress ($35, H&M)
Maternity, Labor & Yoga Ball
Summertime is associated with outdoor activities, but in high heat and humidity, exercising outdoors isn’t always safe for a pregnant woman. But exercise is healthy for both mother and baby, as long as your OB/GYN clears you, so moving that exercise routine indoors is a good option to staying cool and healthy. This BabyGo Birthing Ball comes with a book of suggested moves for relaxation and strength for the mom-to-be.
BABYGO Birthing Ball ($30, Amazon)
Meal Delivery Service
Surviving a summer pregnancy and going grocery shopping every week can seem too much, so a meal kit like Blue Apron comes in handy. Delivered right to the door, you’ll get a well-balanced diet with minimal effort. The service offer a variety of menus catered to dietary preferences, including meat, fish, diabetes-friendly, and health-conscious recipes.
Blue Apron Meal Delivery Service (Price varies, Blue Apron)
Adidas Swift Run Sneaker
Lightweight cushioning puts comfort under every step in an '80s-throwback running shoe reborn as a sporty, wear-everywhere sneaker. Available in Icy Pink (as shown) or Ash Pearl (a mauve color), these Adidas sneaks will give those tootsies some much-needed cushioning for spending a day on those feet. The knit sock upper and the embroidered stripes racing up the toe and around the heel keep the look sleek with any outfit.
Adidas Swift Run Sneaker ($85, Nordstrom)
Boyfriend Shorts
Shorts are a summer essential, especially when you’re pregnant. Investing in a belly band is a great way to extend the life of your regular shorts, or buy maternity shorts that are a little longer, looser and comfortably support that baby in your belly. These five-pocket shorts in washed denim with heavily distressed details have ribbing at the waist for added comfort. They’re 99% cotton and 1% spandex.
MAMA Boyfriend Denim Shorts ($18, H&M)
Non-Skid Maternity Socks
Even in the summer, it feels good to wear socks around the house. They keep your feet protected and soft. These comfy socks are perfect for walking around at home or in the hospital, and they have cute messages on the sole. Pregnancy is tough, and having a sense of humor about it all really helps.
Kindred Bravely Non Skid Maternity Socks ($10, Amazon)
Maternity Nursing Bra
If you're pregnant, it's likely your cup size has changed. Some women love it and others not so much, but either way you’ll need to accommodate your larger (and probably sensitive) chest with a supportive and comfortable bra. When that sleek and lacy bra is no longer giving support and coverage, it’s time for a maternity bra. This soft, wireless bra is free of snaps, clasps, buttons or anything else that might poke or irritate. Available in black and nude, it features soft, supportive stretch fabric and an easy slide-over design that makes it great for nursing after baby arrives, too.
Belly Bandit B.D.A. Maternity/Nursing Bra ($37, Nordstrom)
Maternity Cami Top
When you're pregnant during the summer, there's nothing better than wearing lightweight fabrics to help you feel cool. This cami top from Asos will also have you feeling cute. Made in a textured, stretchy fabric it features a square neck with adjustable straps. The shirred, stretch bodice is in a smock style that is designed to fit from bump to baby.
ASOS DESIGN Maternity Puff Texture Cami Top ($26, Asos)
Cooling Foot Spray
Here's another product focused on the feet because pregnancy feet are sensitive and sometimes swollen, so they deserve all the pampering. Relax after a long day on your feet with a cooling foot and leg spray like this one from The Body Shop. Enriched with English peppermint essential oil, spritz on this foot spray for minty freshness whenever you need it.
Peppermint Cooling Foot Spray ($10, The Body Shop)
Cooling Bra Inserts
Boob sweat happens. There's an old wives' tale about putting a frozen cabbage leaf in your bra to keep cool, but we're going to go a more modern route. Try a cooling bra insert, instead. Put them in the fridge or freezer and then stick them in your bra to keep boob sweat down. Plus, these will give you a little lift, too.
Polar Products Cool Lift Bra Coolers ($37, Polar Products)
Pregnancy Pool Float
Created by a mother who craved being able to lie on her tummy while pregnant, the Holo makes it possible for pregnant mamas who love to lounge in the pool — or anywhwere else. There's a big belly hole so you can keep your cool and give your tummy a relaxing dunk. Don't forget the sunscreen! The raised tummy ring supports the hips, tummy, pelvis and spine. Genius!
Holo Inflatable Maternity Raft ($65, Amazon)
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