Why do you sweat when you're pregnant?
The first thing to say is, sweating in pregnancy is very common. You could get hot flushes during the day and night sweats too.
What causes night sweats?
When you’re pregnant, both your hormone levels and blood flow increase. That causes your body temperature to rise. Your body then reacts by sweating, in an effort to cool you down.
Some women will experience sweating after pregnancy as well. Again, this is nothing to be alarmed about. It’s simply because your body will have excess fluid to get rid of, and your hormone levels need to rebalance themselves.
Could excessive sweating be a sign you’re pregnant?
When you’re pregnant, the part of your brain that regulates your heat levels is affected by the change in hormones – a bit like a faulty thermostat. And that causes you to sweat more.
You might get night sweats and excessive sweating in early pregnancy, which then reduce over the nine months. But you might get them back nearer to your delivery date, when your hormones change again.
How you can reduce sweating during pregnancy
Here are some tips to make sweating during pregnancy that bit easier to manage:
Make time to wash or shower regularly
At least once a day, and more frequently if you feel the need.
Use an antiperspirant every day
They’re perfectly safe to use during pregnancy. If you’re sweating lots, try using a stronger product like Sure Maximum Protection. And if you find your skin is more sensitive than usual, try using a product designed for sensitive skins.
Wear loose-fitting clothes and choose natural fibers
They’ll help your skin breathe more. And go for cotton underwear as it’ll be more breathable too.
Be careful what you eat and drink
You’re probably avoiding most of these anyway, but alcohol, caffeine, spicy food and smoking can all make you sweat more.
Stay hydrated
Always carry a bottle of water with you, to keep you cool and hydrated.
Keep your bedroom cool
If you’re getting night sweats, always leave a window open. And switching to a lighter duvet or bedclothes can help too.
If you find you’re sweating more during pregnancy and it’s accompanied by a fever, rapid heartbeat or other symptoms, you should get advice from your doctor straight away.