Many women experience hot flashes during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester. Though it can be uncomfortable, hot flashes during pregnancy are not necessarily a cause for concern and are a common symptom of pregnancy. While hot flashes may be bothersome, they can often be managed with lifestyle changes and certain treatments. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the causes of hot flashes during pregnancy, their prevalence in the third trimester, and how to manage them. We’ll also look at when hot flashes could be a sign of a more serious health condition and, if so, what to do. Whether you’re in your first trimester or third trimester of pregnancy, understanding hot flashes and the treatments available can help you manage the discomfort and ensure your health and well-being.
Ask your doctor to check your hormone levels. This involves a simple blood test. Hot flashes and overheating are side effects of some common medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism.
Even though your pregnant body might find relaxing in a hot tub, it’s preferable to cool off in a pool. Pregnancy and hot tubs don’t mix.
Once more, if you frequently feel hot or unwell while in the sauna, it’s best to leave right away or stay away from saunas entirely while pregnant.
If you think you may have overheated while pregnant, tell your doctor. If you experience night sweats along with other symptoms, you could be suffering from an infection. See your doctor urgently if you also have:
Also, given that you actually have a bun in the oven, it’s normal to feel a little warmer when you’re pregnant. Your body temperature may slightly increase during pregnancy due to a number of changes, and that’s perfectly fine. When you are exposed to excessive heat, you may feel ill and it may harm your child’s development.
Why do hot flashes occur in pregnancy?
Although they can happen at any time during pregnancy, hot flashes can start to appear as early as the first few weeks.
But depending on whether a woman is at the start of her pregnancy, in the second or third trimester, the causes of hot flashes seem to vary.
When do hot flashes in pregnancy start?
During pregnancy, hot flashes can start very early and happen at any time.
Not everyone experiences them, but for those who do, they may begin as early as around the time of your period, sometimes even before you are aware that you are pregnant, according to Marley.
Although Kate says they are most common in the third trimester (28 weeks and on), some women experience them earlier in pregnancy (the first 12 weeks), particularly if they are experiencing severe morning sickness or hyperemesis.
Additionally, you might discover that you have hot flashes outside of pregnancy. Kate explains that hot flashes at night or night sweats are also typical postnatally, again because of hormone changes following childbirth. Your body is experiencing a natural hormonal reaction as it adjusts to all the changes it has undergone. They can be particularly severe if you are breastfeeding, especially when the feeding is starting to become established, Kate adds.
Although unsettling, these flashes and sweats are nothing to be concerned about. But if you have any worries, speak with your doctor or a health visitor. Keeping hydrated can help hot flashes in pregnancy. (Credit: Getty).
FAQ
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