Hot Flushes in Pregnancy
Dr Shikha Kapour, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at London Gynaecology, spoke to GoodToKnow about hot flushes in pregnancy.
Why do you have hot flashes when pregnant? / What causes hot flashes in pregnancy?
Hot flushes are a symptom we normally associate with menopause. It is when you experience a sudden sensation of excessive heat, mainly the face, neck and chest. Excessive sweating can also accompany this phenomenon. It is also a symptom of pregnancy and is reported in over a third of cases during pregnancy and in the postpartum period (Thurston et al 2013).
Can you get hot flashes in early pregnancy?
One study examining the appearance of hot flushes throughout pregnancy found that as many as 18% of women developed hot flashes within the first 20 weeks. In total, 35% reported hot flashes at some point throughout their pregnancy, and 29% experienced them postpartum (1).
While they typically peak in the third trimester, hot flashes can appear at any point during the course of pregnancy. A study found that 10% of women reported hot flashes within the first postpartum month (2)
Are hot flashes normal during pregnancy?
Hot flashes can occur during pregnancy and are considered normal for many women. Hot flushes are a result of hormonal changes driven by your pregnancy. These changes lead to an increase in the blood supply to the skin and result in a rise in body temperature.
Should I worry about hot flashes during pregnancy?
Hot flashes can occur during pregnancy and are considered normal for many women but it is distressing you please discuss it with your doctor or midwife so they can rule out any other underlying medical issues.
What should I do if I experience a hot flash in pregnancy? What can I do to ease/soothe symptoms?
- Wear loose clothes made from natural fibres
- Keep well hydrated
- Ice packs / cold towels used at pulse points – temples / back of the neck
- Stay in the shade
- Keep your room cool – electric fan
- Take a refreshing shower
- Avoid triggers – spicy food / hot drinks
How do you deal with hot flashes at night during pregnancy?
Wear loose clothes made from natural fibres, dress in layers, use a sheet instead of a duvet, use a fan and have cold shower before bedtime.
When should you see a doctor about hot flashes in pregnancy?
Hot flushes are not harmful but you should inform your midwife of any symptoms that are bothering you. They will be able to reassure you. Your midwife will also be able to check that you are not having a fever which is a sign of an underlying infection and may need treatment.
1. Thurston RC, Luther JF, Wisniewski SR, Eng H, Wisner KL. Prospective evaluation of nighttime hot flashes during pregnancy and postpartum. Fertil Steril. 2013;100(6):1667-1672. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.08.020
2. Gjerdingen D.K, Froberg D.G, Chaloner K.M, McGovern P.M. Changes in women’s physical health during the first postpartum year. Arch Fam Med. 1993; 2: 277-283
