10 Causes Of Feeling Hot During Pregnancy

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Feeling hot during pregnancy is a common complaint. Many women find that their bodies feel warmer than normal, and they often sweat more than usual. While this can be uncomfortable, it is usually nothing to worry about. In most cases, feeling hot during pregnancy is simply a result of the increased blood flow and hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy.

However, if you find that you are suddenly feeling very hot and your skin is red or blotchy, you should contact your doctor as this could be a sign of preeclampsia. Feeling hot during pregnancy is usually nothing to worry about, but it is always best to err on the side of caution and speak to your doctor if you have any concerns.

What are the Causes of Feeling Hot During Pregnancy?

Following are the 10 Causes of Feeling Hot During Pregnancy

1. Hormonal Changes:

As your pregnancy progresses, your body produces more estrogen and progesterone. These hormones help support the growth and development of the placenta and baby. They also cause your blood vessels to dilate (widen), which can lead to feeling flushed or overheated.

2. Increased Blood Volume:

During pregnancy, your blood volume increases by about 40 to 50 percent. This increase in blood flow can make you feel warmer than usual.

3. Metabolic Changes:

As your pregnancy progresses, your body goes through a lot of changes. One of the most noticeable changes is an increase in body temperature. This is due to the fact that your metabolism is working overtime to support the growing baby. In addition, the extra blood flowing through your body can also contribute to feeling hot. Some women find that they are more comfortable in cooler temperatures during pregnancy.

4. Increased Basal Body Temperature:

An increase in basal body temperature can lead to feeling hot all the time, even when it’s not particularly warm out. Some women may find that they need to sleep with fewer blankets or wear lighter clothing to stay comfortable.

Basal body temperature is just one of the many things that can change during pregnancy, so if you’re feeling particularly hot, it’s important to talk to your doctor to rule out any other potential causes. In most cases, though, increased basal body temperature is harmless and will resolve itself after delivery.

5. Increased Sense of Smell:

There are many different changes that occur within a woman’s body during pregnancy, and an increased sense of smell is one of them. This heightened sense of smell can often be the cause of feeling hot during pregnancy, as strong smells can trigger a feeling of warmth. Additionally, pregnant women may also sweat more due to their increased body temperature. While this increased sense of smell and sweating can be uncomfortable, they are both completely normal and will eventually subside after childbirth. If you are concerned about your increased sense of smell or sweating, be sure to speak with your doctor.

6. Nausea and Vomiting:

Nausea and vomiting are common in early pregnancy. These symptoms can also make you feel hot and sweaty.

7. Fatigue:

Fatigue can be a cause of feeling hot during pregnancy. When you are fatigued, your body is unable to regulate its temperature as well as it normally does. This can lead to feeling hot and sweaty, even when the temperature is not particularly warm. If you are pregnant and feeling hot all the time, make sure to drink plenty of fluids and get rest when you can.

8. Stress:

Stress is the main cause of feeling hot during pregnancy. Pregnant women are more prone to stress than non-pregnant women, and this can trigger the release of certain hormones that can make you feel hot.

9. Illness:

There are various causes of feeling hot during pregnancy. One of the most common is an illness called puerperal fever, which can cause a pregnant woman to feel flushed and hot. Other potential causes include dehydration, preeclampsia, and menopause. While most cases of feeling hot during pregnancy are benign and will resolve on their own, it is important to see a doctor if you are concerned about your symptoms.

10. Exercise:

If you are used to working out regularly, you may notice that you feel hotter during your workouts while pregnant. This is because your body is already working harder to support both you and your baby. As your pregnancy progresses, you may need to scale back your workouts or take more breaks to stay cool.

How to Cool Off During Pregnancy?

Following are the 10 Ways to cool off during pregnancy.

1. Drink lots of water: Drinking water is one of the simplest ways to stay cool and hydrated during pregnancy. aim for eight to 10 glasses per day.

2. Avoid hot foods and drinks: Hot or spicy foods can make you feel even hotter. Stick to cool, refreshing foods like fruits and vegetables.

3. Limit your time in the sun: When it’s hot outside, spend less time in the sun and more time in the shade. If you must be in the sun, wear loose, cotton clothing and a hat to protect your skin.

4. Take a cool shower or bath: A cool shower or bath can help bring your body temperature down. Add a few drops of lavender oil to your bathtub for a relaxing experience.

5. Place a cool, damp cloth on your skin: Wet a washcloth with cool water and place it on your forehead, neck, or wrists. Or try using a cooling gel pack wrapped in a thin towel.

6. Use a fan: A handheld fan or electric fan can help circulate air and keep you cool. If possible, position the fan so it blows air across your body rather than directly at you.

7. Keep your home cool: When it’s hot outside, open the windows and turn on the fans inside your home. You might also want to consider using an air conditioner during extreme heat waves.

8. Wear loose, comfortable clothing: Tight, constricting clothing can make you feel hotter. Instead, opt for loose, breathable fabrics like cotton.

9. Drink herbal tea: Some teas, like chamomile and peppermint, can help you relax and feel cooler. Avoid teas that contain caffeine, which can actually make you feel more awake and increase your body temperature.

10. Take a pregnancy-safe cooling supplement: There are some safe, over-the-counter supplements that can help cool you off. Look for products containing menthol or peppermint oil.