Pregnancy sweat
Sweating more during early pregnancy is very common. You might experience hot flushes during the day as well as night sweats.
During pregnancy hormone levels and blood flow increase, causing the body temperature to rise, so the body sweats more to cool you down. Some women also experience sweating after pregnancy as the body releases excess fluid and hormone levels rebalance.
Is sweating a sign of pregnancy?
Night sweats can be an early sign of pregnancy – though they can also be caused by other factors. The part of the brain that regulates your heat levels is impacted by the change in hormones, causing you to sweat more. Night sweats and excessive sweating in pregnancy tend to reduce over the nine months, but may increase near your delivery date due to further hormonal changes.
How to reduce pregnancy sweat
Here are some tips for making your pregnancy sweat easier to manage:
- Wash or shower regularly.
- Use an antiperspirant daily. If you’re sweating excessively during your pregnancy, consider using a stronger product, like Rexona Maximum Protection. Antiperspirants are safe to use during pregnancy, though some women find their skin is more sensitive, so you may want to consider a sensitive product.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes and go for natural fibres that breathe. Underwear made of cotton will also be more breathable.
- You may be doing this anyway, but avoid alcohol, caffeine, spicy food and smoking, as these can make you sweat more.
- Stay hydrated and always carry a bottle of water with you to keep you cool.
- If you’re getting night sweats, ensure your bedroom is cool enough by opening a window, or switch your bedclothes or duvet to a lighter fabric.
If your increased sweating is accompanied by a fever, rapid heartbeat or other symptoms, you should seek advice from a medical professional.
