Are you expecting a bundle of joy in the next few months? If so, congratulations! Now tell me, are you sick of people telling you how lucky you are to not be expecting that same bundle during the summer?

Yes, a summer pregnancy is hard but so is a winter pregnancy! The two extremes of the Great British weather seasons each have their own challenges, so it's a good idea to be prepared. Here are five tips to help you survive a winter pregnancy. Hope it helps!

Don't Forget To Stay Hydrated

We tend to drink a lot of water in the warm summer months, but when it comes to winter, we start to slip. Drinking water is a very good habit to be in, whether it is hot or cold outside and when you're pregnant it's even more important. Your body needs to stay hydrated, especially if you are moving in and out of buildings with central heating. I you don't drink enough water, you could find yourself feeling faint and dizzy, plus headaches can be an issue too.

Dehydration in pregnancy can be determined by the following signs and symptoms:

• Headache
• Unable to quench thirst
• Dry nose and mouth
• Lack of energy
• Nausea
• Headache
• Constipation
• Urinary tract infection
• Piles

So, all said, carrying a bottle of water around with you is probably our number one tip! Don't make the mistake of thinking it's not as important as it is during the summer months.

Carry a Hand Sanitiser With You Everywhere You Go

Hand washing in the winter months is really important, because this is the season we all seem to pick up coughs and colds. When you're pregnant, it's really no fun being ill. Beside the fact that there are few medications that you are able or want to take, being ill in pregnancy can take its toll on your baby too, so you'll want to avoid as many germs as you can. While you can't avoid people all winter, you can take steps to make sure you stay as germ-free as possible.

• Always carry hand sanitiser in your bag
• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water.
• Ensure all family members are washing their hands too

If you do fall sick (during pregnancy our immune systems can be a lower than usual), talk to your midwife or GP about the medicines that are safe to take during pregnancy.

Stay On Your Feet

During the winter, snow and ice can be a problem, especially for pregnant women. Here are some tips to help you stay on your feet:

• Wear sensible shoes. You’ll be able to wear those killer heels next year. Flats with a good grip on the sole are your best friend now. If it’s icy out, stay home and send someone else out if you need something.
• Don't carry anything too heavy as this may upset your balance. Ask others to carry heavy items for you.

Invest In A Winter Coat

During the summer, there’s little need for a coat but in the winter, it's a different story. Consider if you really need a maternity coat; it’s nice to have if you can afford it (or you could buy second hand or even rent one), but you may be able to wear a normal coat with the buttons undone over the tummy. You could also add layers underneath, even thermal underwear, so that you stay warm.

Eat Well and Exercise

Winter evenings seem made for curling up by the fire, eating delicious food and resting - and of course you do need to rest a lot more during pregnancy. But exercise is important too, if you can manage it. It helps to get the blood pumping and keeps you supple and healthy in preparation for labour. Eating well will help you to ward off bugs too and keeps your baby healthy. Adopt a healthy, balanced view to the whole thing and don't beat yourself up if ‘baby wants ice cream’ occasionally!

Further Reading:

Winter Essentials for the Whole Family
Safer Sleep for Pregnant Mums to Be
A Guide to Exercise for New Mums