Why Am I Always Feeling Hot During Pregnancy?

Though pregnancy is the most exciting and memorable experience for a woman, it can trigger multiple changes including, mood swings, weight gain, morning sickness, and especially Increased body temperature. It is quite normal to experience a rise in body temperature during pregnancy, but being aware of the factors causing it will help you stay prepared and avoid them to prevent overheating.

What Is Physically Going on That Makes Pregnant Women Feel Hot?

Here are the factors that contribute to feeling hot in pregnancy:

Physical changes

1. Hormonal Imbalance: In the first trimester, hormonal changes might cause increased body temperature with morning sickness.

2. Widened Blood Vessels: More blood is required to carry oxygen and food to your baby, so your blood vessels slightly dilate, bringing the blood closer to the skin, thus making you feel hot. You can also expect a 50% increase in blood volume by the 34th week of your pregnancy.

3. High Metabolic Rate: As your heart has extra blood, it has to work harder to ensure proper circulation. During the 8th week of pregnancy, your heart pumps blood 20% faster than usual, causing increased heart rate. A higher heart rate increases your metabolism, which in turn increases your body temperature.

4. Carrying Your Baby During 3rd Trimester: Your baby gives off your body the heat that you absorb, thus making you feel hotter from inside out. In case you are carrying twins or triplets, you may feel hotter than normal pregnancies.

Some Other Factors

1. Hot Tubs, Saunas, and Hot Baths: Spending too much time in a hot tub, sauna, or hot bath might not always be a healthy choice for pregnant women, even though these are comforting options to relieve stress and soothe muscle pain. It is best to consult with your gynecologist before you go for a sauna, a hot bath, or use a hot tub during pregnancy.

2. Heating Pad

Although a hot water bottle or heating pad can soothe your muscle pain, use it occasionally during pregnancy. Make sure:

• Not to use it near your stomach, to avoid heating your baby.
• The heating pad is not too hot to prevent burning your skin.
• It is best to use a towel or soft cloth between your body and the heating pad to avoid overheating.

3. Hot Weather

Hot weather can make you overheat and cause health problems, such as heat stroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion. Therefore, take essential measures to stay cooler.

If you have to go out in hot weather, follow these tips to cool down your body and baby:

• Wear a scarf or a hat to cover your head to protect it from the heat
• Wear loose, breathable cotton or linen outfits to keep you comfortable
• Drink plenty of water to avoid the onset of dehydration
• Use an umbrella to avoid direct sun exposure
• Keep a wet towel to wipe sweats

How Can You Cool Off During Pregnancy?

Follow these tips to keep you cool during pregnancy:

1. Stay Hydrated

To stay adequately hydrated, drink approximately 8 to 12 glasses of water every day.

2. Practice Swimming

While keeping you cool, swimming increases your blood circulation, thus reducing swelling and stress. You can find a local pool or a safe body of water to practice swimming.

3. Avoid Hot Beverages and Foods

Taking a hot drink or food may increase your body temperature. Instead, use cold alternatives like iced decaffeinated tea or gazpacho.

4. Eat Homemade Popsicles

Make popsicles with unsweetened yogurt and frozen fruits, such as pineapple, watermelon, blueberries, and strawberries to get essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and calcium.

5. Use Peppermint Oil

Mix 3-5 drops of peppermint oil with one drop of coconut oil and apply it on your chest and shoulders to alleviate nausea and feel rejuvenated and cool.

6. Take a Short Nap

Taking a short nap can help reduce your body temperature, as your body will use less energy while sleeping.

7. Grow Cooling and Purifying Houseplants

Plants such as aloe vera, snake plants, and fern can provide a cooling effect while purifying the air in the space. Therefore, grow them in the room where you spend most of your time.

8. Keep Your Windows Open During the Night and Closed During the Morning and Afternoons

Open your windows in the evening (after sunset) to keep your home cool and close them in the morning to trap the cool air and prevent heat from the sun.

9. Create a Perfect Sleeping Place

Pregnant women need sufficient and undisturbed sleep. To do so, wear a loose nightdress and use moisture-wicking bedspreads, a noise-free ceiling or floor fan, and blackout curtains to prevent the sun’s heat in the morning.

When Should a Pregnant Woman Seek Emergency Medical Care Because of Overheating?

Though feeling overheated during pregnancy and having night sweats is normal, visit your doctor immediately if you also have:

• Diarrhea
• Flu symptoms
• A fever above 101°F
• Muscle aches
• Nausea

Schedule an appointment with North Atlanta Women's Care today if you are looking for the best gynecologist near you for pregnancy overheating issues or any related questions. Our gynecologists provide the best possible treatment to help women get relief from symptoms of Feeling hot during pregnancy.