When finding out I would be giving birth in September a number of people responded by saying, “Poor you – a summer pregnancy is awful”.  I completely disagree! Now having been through a December delivery, a March delivery, and a September due date I believe that a summer pregnancy far outweighs a winter pregnancy.  Here are my top ten reasons why a summer pregnancy rocks!

   

#1 – Food

Summer food is perfect for pregnancy.  Popsicles and ice cream (here is my Cherry Chocolate Chunk Ice Cream recipe) are readily accessible at all times in the summer. 

There are delicious fruits and other types of produce that are in season and much cheaper. 

Plus, you are more likely to drink more water in summer than in winter.  I am much better about staying hydrated in the summer.  In winter I guzzle hot chocolate probably leading to too much caffeine intake.

   

#2 – Footwear

Yay for flip flops!  I am able to wear my own shoes during a summer pregnancy all the way until delivery – not the case with a winter one.  Zipping up a boot in winter over your swollen and enlarged lower extremities, no bueno.

   

#3 – Transportation

You don’t need to be worried about snowstorms or icy roads in summer.  Driving to OB/GYN appointments, ultrasounds, and the hospital is a lot less stressful when you aren’t scared about arriving there safely (and on time!).

   

#4 – Better Maternity Photos

A tan always makes me feel prettier.  Plus, in summer the background of your maternity photos can include water or flowers.

   

#5 – Garage Sales!!

Babies are expensive.  During a summer pregnancy, you can take advantage of all the awesome deals you can find at garage sales. 

Baby clothes for a dollar – yes, please!  Toys, strollers, books, etc for a fraction of the price – yahoo!!

Babies grow so fast, you can usually find items that have barely been worn or used at summer garage sales.

   

#6 – Timing

Most people tend to take more time off work in the summer.  I know a number of friends who have “summer hours” in which they take off early every Friday.  You are probably more likely to go on vacation, go to the beach, and relax more in the summer than in winter.

Morning sickness in summer? No thank you, I would much rather be puking and feeling nauseated in winter when I can curl up on the floor and not be thinking of all the fun stuff and nice weather I am missing.

   

#7 – Clothing

You get to wear a lot fewer clothes in summer which is a huge bonus when pregnant.  No trying to zip a winter coat over your belly.  No socks, pantyhose, or tights necessary.  Depending on your job, you might be able to wear loose dresses and casual outfits which are a bit more acceptable in summer than in winter. 

I found I didn’t need to wear as many maternity clothes during a summer pregnancy because of how flowy the materials of my summer clothing items already were.

   

#8 – Shower Season

Personally, I think going to or hosting a baby shower in summer is more fun.  For one reason, guests are already in shower season mode.  Summer is packed with bridal showers, weddings, birthday parties, etc. 

Furthermore, there is more flexibility with where you can have a baby shower in terms of venues (indoor or outdoor).  Plus, you are not competing with winter holiday budgets so guests are more likely to buy you better gifts.

   

#9 – Great Distractions

In summer there are tons of festivals, concerts, fairs, vacations, etc to distract you from your upcoming labor and huge life event.  Some women are over being pregnant and these distractions can help you forget how uncomfortable you are.  Or if you can’t wait for the baby to arrive the same distractions help too.  It sure beats winter when you could be stuck inside watching Netflix waiting for the baby to come.

   

#10 – House Projects

I think it is a lot easier to get projects done around the house in the summer. 

You will likely have a long list of house/yard projects you would like finished before the baby arrives because, believe me, doing projects around nap schedules takes a lot longer. 

Also, if you are having a winter baby you might already be overwhelmed with the holidays to focus on anything else.

In addition, you can have the windows open in summer if you are painting.

           

Although there are many reasons why a summer pregnancy is better than a winter pregnancy I have to be honest and mention a few cons as well. 

Downfalls of a summer pregnancy include mosquitos and the fact that you have to shave your legs more often.  Your electricity bill might be higher because you will want air conditioning more often. 

But all in all, I would always choose to be pregnant in summer versus winter.

       

Currently pregnant or know someone who is?  Take a look at my trimester survival guides (they include great gift ideas!)

   

First Trimester Survival Guide

Second Trimester Survival Guide

Third Trimester Survival Guide