During pregnancy, the temperature of the woman's body increases, causing hot flushes, sweating y heaviness both day and night. The symptoms become more acute in summer compared to the colder seasons.
In this article you will know why women feel heat during pregnancy, the associated symptoms and how to alleviate it. we started.
Causes that explain why women feel hot during pregnancy
The hormonal changes that take place in the pregnant woman generate physiological changes that are the causes of heat in pregnancy and are the following:
- Increased basal temperature: during pregnancy the increase in progesterone levels induces an increase in the basal temperature (lower body temperature measured at rest during sleep) of the woman's body. Hence, the measurement of body temperature is one of the methods to calculate the fertile days during the menstrual cycle.
- Increased metabolic rate: to this is added that the metabolic rate of pregnant women is higher, since the generation of a new life It is a huge energy demand.
Symptoms derived from heat during pregnancy
Women already perceive the increase in their body temperature from the first trimester of pregnancy and the most frequent symptoms are:
- Hot flushes: It is a sudden and uncontrollable sensation of heat in the body. It usually occurs en head, neck and chest and its duration and intensity are variable. They can appear at any time regardless of the outside temperature, with nocturnal hot flashes being more difficult to deal with because they interfere with falling asleep. Late in pregnancy, it can be accompanied by a choking sensation due to the oppression that the baby exerts on the rib cage and hot flashes can become more intense.
- hot feet syndrome: manifests as a burning sensation and pain in the soles and toes and is due to fluid retention and associated circulation problems that compress the metatarsal bones. It is a nuisance linked to hot flashes and heat strokes.
- Heat stroke: It is an increase in body temperature equal to or greater than 39ºC. That is, it is high fever and poses a risky situation for the woman and her baby. Redness and dryness of the skin appear, heart rate increases, headaches, dizziness and vomiting occur. If these symptoms are detected, you should go to the emergency room immediately.
Palliative measures of heat in pregnancy
- Hydration: maintain proper hydration by abundant fluid intake It will be the first measure to take in the face of heat during pregnancy and it is recommended throughout the gestation regardless of it. Water, juices and infusions are a good option.
- Food: it is necessary to monitor the intake of salt since it generates fluid retention and that favors the symptoms associated with heat in pregnancy. In addition, it is recommended to take frequently fruits and vegetables since they are foods rich in water and will contribute to proper hydration.
- Personal habits: Avoid hot water baths and instead use lukewarm water in grooming routines. Moisturize the skin with refreshing gel for pregnant women. The moderate physical exercise Like swimming or Pilates, it is also recommended to alleviate the heat, as well as being very beneficial for the general health of pregnant women, conditioning her favorably for the moment of childbirth.
- Clothing: use comfortable clothes light colored and breathable footwear. Comfort at this time is essential.
- Care of the environment: Taking care of the environmental conditions helps reduce the feeling of suffocation. In this sense it will be important keep spaces ventilated, not too humid and free of strong odors (which can also cause nausea in pregnant women). It is also recommended avoid hot and humid environments such as jacuzzis, saunas, Arab baths, etc.
- Relax: Rest is a must for a pregnant woman. The Massage, yoga and meditation They are resources that calm the stress associated with symptoms related to heat in pregnancy and the baby will also benefit if his mother is calm.