Feeling hot or perpetually warm is one of the most common physical changes experienced during pregnancy. This sensation, often accompanied by increased sweating, is a sign your body is adapting to support a growing fetus. This article explores the biological causes behind this elevated body temperature and provides practical advice for managing the discomfort. Understanding these reasons can help you move through your pregnancy more comfortably.
The Physiological Reasons for Increased Heat
The primary cause of feeling hot is rooted in hormonal changes that impact the body’s internal thermostat, the hypothalamus. The hormone progesterone, which increases significantly during pregnancy to maintain the uterine lining, has a thermogenic effect that resets the body’s baseline temperature slightly higher than usual. This shift means the body perceives a normal temperature as too cool, triggering heat-generating responses.
The body has an elevated metabolic rate that generates more internal heat. Supporting the development of the fetus and the placenta requires a substantial increase in energy expenditure, which naturally produces heat as a byproduct. This constant internal furnace contributes to the feeling of being warmer, even in cool environments.
The volume of blood circulating in the body increases, often by up to 50% by the third trimester. This extra blood is pushed closer to the skin’s surface, a process known as vasodilation, which attempts to dissipate excess heat. The increased blood flow near the skin causes the sensation of warmth, flushing, and visible redness.
Simple Ways to Manage Overheating
Since the underlying causes of the heat are biological necessities, management focuses on helping the body cool down and stay comfortable. Hydration is key, as drinking cool water helps regulate core body temperature and replaces fluids lost through increased sweating. Carry a water bottle and sip consistently, limiting drinks with excessive sugar or caffeine that can contribute to dehydration.
Strategic clothing choices can significantly mitigate discomfort, starting with wearing loose-fitting, light-colored garments made from natural, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Layering clothing allows for quick adjustments to temperature fluctuations, preventing heat buildup when moving between different environments. Utilizing air conditioning or a fan in your immediate surroundings can also provide substantial relief.
Cooling techniques can target the skin surface for rapid comfort. Keeping a spray bottle filled with water or a damp cloth nearby allows for quick misting or application to pulse points like the wrists or neck. Taking a lukewarm shower or bath helps lower the body’s core temperature without causing a rebound effect.
When Feeling Hot Requires Medical Attention
While feeling warm is common during pregnancy, a fever warrants immediate attention. A body temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is considered a fever and may indicate an infection requiring medical evaluation. If your temperature reaches this threshold, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Overheating can lead to dehydration. Signs include persistent dizziness, extreme thirst, or urine that is dark yellow and minimal in quantity. If these symptoms are present despite attempts to cool down and hydrate, medical consultation is necessary.
Symptoms that prompt a call to your doctor include a rapid or fluttering heart rate, severe headaches, or confusion. These signs can be connected to complications caused by an underlying infection or severe dehydration. Always seek medical advice if you are unable to cool down or if your symptoms worsen.