When should I see a doctor if I have a cold or cough during pregnancy?

If your cold or cough lasts more than three days, it’s best to see your doctor rather than waiting it out.

What symptoms during pregnancy could indicate something serious?

Watch out for high fever, chills, persistent cough, chest pain, trouble breathing, severe headache, blurry vision, reduced baby movements, or any bleeding. These could signal an infection or preeclampsia.

Winter Pregnancy Care: Stay Warm, Safe, and Healthy Throughout the Season

Winter is a beautiful season. The mornings have that soft, golden sunlight, and wrapping yourself in a warm blanket feels amazing. But for pregnant people, it also brings unique challenges. The cold can dry out your skin, make your joints ache, and even make you more likely to catch a cold. And since your body is already doing so much to grow your baby, these little issues can feel way bigger than usual.

Dress Smart to Stay Cosy

If you're wondering how to stay warm during pregnancy in winter, choosing the right pregnancy clothes is the first step. When you’re getting ready to go out in the cold, start with a soft cotton top or kurti as your first layer. It should feel comfortable and gentle on your skin. Next, add a light sweater or cardigan so you can remove it if you feel warm later.

After that, wear a winter jacket or coat that fits well over your bump and still lets you move easily. Pick something practical that you can wear throughout the season. Before stepping out, wrap a light muffler around your neck to keep out the wind. You can also wear gloves to keep your hands warm. Finally, slip into shoes that are warm, waterproof, and have a strong grip.

Stay Hydrated

In winter, you might not feel thirsty because it’s not hot, but your body still loses moisture. The air is dry, and indoor heating makes it worse. That’s why you actually need more water now to stay hydrated. If you skip it, it can cause problems like tiredness, dizziness, or even early labour.

Stick to plain water most of the time, but you can also drink fresh juices or coconut water if you want a change. Warm water works well, too, especially when it’s cold outside. Try keeping a bottle near you or set a reminder on your phone to take small sips throughout the day.

Protect Yourself from Colds and Flu

When you’re pregnant, your body’s immune system isn’t as strong as usual. That means winter infections like the flu can hit you harder than before. One simple thing you can do to protect yourself and your baby is get the flu vaccine. It's completely safe during pregnancy and protects both of you from serious illnesses.

Another easy but super important step is washing your hands properly. Don’t just rinse them quickly. Use soap and scrub for at least 20 seconds, making sure you get in between your fingers and under your nails. Do this especially after coming home from outside, using the bathroom, or before you eat. If you don’t have water nearby, hand sanitiser works too.

Eat Well to Boost Your Strength

Winter can make you more prone to colds and flu, so it’s important to focus on foods that keep your body strong. Make sure fruits and vegetables are part of every meal. They’re full of vitamins that boost your immunity and help you stay hydrated.

Along with that, include whole grains, lean proteins like eggs, fish, or chicken, and healthy fats such as nuts or olive oil. This combination gives your body the energy it needs and supports your baby’s growth, too. Your doctor might also suggest prenatal vitamins to fill in any gaps in your diet.

Stay Active

Stepping out for a walk in the winter can feel almost impossible. The cold air feels sharp in your lungs, and it’s tempting to just stay under the blankets. But staying active during pregnancy is really important. Moving around helps your blood flow and even gets your body ready for labour.

If going outside feels too harsh, there are plenty of indoor options. Prenatal yoga, stretching, or slow, easy walks inside your home are perfect. And always check with your doctor before starting something new, especially if you haven’t done it before.

Take Care of Your Skin

During pregnancy, your skin can feel dry, rough, or even itchy. But a few simple steps can make a positive difference.

Use lukewarm water when you take a shower. Hot water might feel nice, but it actually strips your skin of its natural oils and makes dryness worse. After washing, put on a moisturiser while your skin is still a little damp.

Get Plenty of Rest

Getting enough sleep during pregnancy can be challenging with your growing bump making it harder to get comfortable. But aiming for 7 to 9 hours of rest each night really helps your body and your mood. Try to stick to a regular bedtime, and if you feel tired during the day, don’t hesitate to take a short nap.

Following these simple winter care tips during pregnancy can make your journey much easier and even enjoyable. These steps not only protect your health but also support your baby’s growth and wellbeing.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Winter Pregnancy Care: How to Stay Warm, Safe, and Healthy

When should I see a doctor if I have a cold or cough during pregnancy?
If your cold or cough lasts more than three days, it’s best to see your doctor rather than waiting it out.
What symptoms during pregnancy could indicate something serious?
Watch out for high fever, chills, persistent cough, chest pain, trouble breathing, severe headache, blurry vision, reduced baby movements, or any bleeding. These could signal an infection or preeclampsia.