☀️ Surviving a Montana Summer While Pregnant: Yes, You Can Do This!
If you're reading this with your feet propped up, a fan blowing on full blast, and a gallon of ice water within reach—you’re not alone. Summer pregnancy in Montana can be a special kind of sweaty adventure. The air’s dry, the temps hit the 90s on the regular, and let’s face it: growing a whole human already comes with its own internal furnace.
But take a deep breath (seriously, go slow—we’re at high elevation), because we’ve got tips to help you feel more comfortable, cared for, and even kind of glowy during this sunny season.
💦 Hydration = Your Summer Superpower
Montana summers might be dry, but you shouldn’t be. Pregnancy increases your need for water, and hot weather ups the ante. Aim for 8–12 cups of water a day, and more if you’re exercising or spending time outside.
Pro tips:
Infuse your water with fresh mint, cucumber, or frozen berries.
Keep a big water bottle with you everywhere. (Yes, even to the bathroom again.)
Watermelon, cucumbers, and smoothies count too!
🏃♀️ Keep Moving—Gently!
It may be tempting to become one with your couch and a box of popsicles (no judgment, some days that’s the vibe). But regular, light exercise can help reduce swelling, boost your mood, and prepare your body for birth.
Summer-safe ways to stay active in Montana:
Morning or evening walks on the shaded parts of Mount Helena Trail or the paved paths at Centennial Park.
Prenatal workout videos in the living room with the A/C on full blast.
Swimming at Memorial Pool or Spring Meadow Lake—weightless bliss!
Just avoid the hottest times of day and listen to your body. Tired? Rest. Dizzy? Hydrate. Glowing too hard (aka overheating)? Find shade or head indoors.
🥗 Nourish That Bump (and Yourself)
Eating well during pregnancy isn’t about perfection—it’s about fueling yourself in a way that feels good. And summer makes it easy with all the fresh local produce!
Montana summer pregnancy faves:
Chilled pasta salad with veggies and protein (think grilled chicken or chickpeas).
Yogurt parfaits with cherries or local berries.
Smoothies loaded with spinach, banana, and peanut butter.
Watermelon slices eaten straight from the fridge = heaven.
Don't forget snacks! Keep trail mix, string cheese, or cut fruit on hand in your bag or car (bonus: it might even save your mood).
☁️ Dealing With Wildfire Smoke + Elevation = Extra Fun
Pregnancy already affects your breathing (hello, squished lungs), but smoky skies can make things worse. Watch the air quality index (AQI) and stay indoors on hazy days.
Some tips:
Invest in a HEPA filter or keep your windows closed with a fan running.
Choose indoor movement on poor AQI days (prenatal YouTube workouts FTW).
Use saline spray if you get nosebleeds or sinus irritation from dry air.
Remember, you’re not being dramatic if you feel more exhausted than usual. Your body is working overtime, and the elements are just making things trickier.
🧖♀️ Self-Care Is Not Optional
Being pregnant in the heat takes a toll. Take care of yourself like it’s your full-time job—because it kind of is.
Feet swollen? Elevate them, soak in cool water, or try compression socks.
Too hot to function? Hit up Target just to stand in the refrigerated section. We won’t tell.
Cranky or uncomfortable? Try cooling face mists, loose cotton dresses, or naps in front of a fan.
Feeling isolated? Connect with local prenatal classes at Options Clinic or support groups like Helena Village Collective—you’re not alone!
And give yourself grace. Some days, surviving is the win.
👒 Bonus Tips from Montana Mamas:
“I kept a spray bottle in the fridge and misted my face and neck throughout the day. Game-changer.”
“Evening drives with the A/C blasting became our ‘date nights.’”
“I started keeping a popsicle stash in every freezer I had access to. Priorities.”
You’ve Got This!
Summer pregnancy in Montana might be a sweaty saga, but you are doing something incredible. Take it one cool drink, short walk, and deep breath at a time. And when in doubt? Head for the shade, snack often, and remind yourself that you're building a whole tiny human.
Hang in there, mama. Fall is coming—and so is your baby. 💛