Do you ever wonder if the glow of pregnancy is caused by the increased amount of sweat that seems to be excreted from your body at the most inopportune times?
Sweating during pregnancy is one of the most common – but often not talked about – symptoms of pregnancy. For many women, the sweating comes out of nowhere. You may find that you suddenly get hot flashes for no apparent reason at all, and have a more difficult time tolerating warmer temperatures. While everyone else is freezing, you are shedding clothes in an effort to not soak your garments in sweat. The good news is that this is perfectly normal. The not-so-good news is that this increase in sweating during pregnancy is caused by surges of hormones that change nearly every physiological aspect of your life.
During pregnancy, your blood flow and metabolism are increased – which can cause your body to perspire, or sweat, more. Additionally, pregnancy can cause your body temperature to raise slightly. While you may not be working out in the traditional sense of the word, your body is constantly in the process of making another human, which is HARD work. This can account for the excess sweat, and make it a little more bearable since you are performing the ultimate act of human creation.
Hormones, of course, are to blame as well. The surges, increases and decreases in hormones that constantly occur during pregnancy can be likened to those felt during menopause, and is likely responsible for your hot flashes. As long as you aren’t running a fever or having flu-like symptoms, chances are your overactive sweat glands are just something you will have to deal with.
Another thing that can lead to the sweating is a change with your thyroid gland. For some women, pregnancy can lead to hypothyroidism which can attribute to an increase in sweating. If you have heart palpitations or other symptoms that coincide with the sweating, a phone call to your doctor may be in order.
For the most part, this sweating is NOT dangerous. Although if you feel as though you are overheating, you should take time to get out of the sun, into the air conditioning and cool yourself so you don’t overheat. In cooler months, wear layers of clothes so that when the ‘sweats’ hits you, you can cool off by removing layers. It is also important that you stay hydrated, and keep water on hand at all times. Dehydration during pregnancy can be dangerous, and the best way to ensure you don’t become dehydrated is to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Written By Stef, Mom of 4 @Momspirational
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.
