Articles

Key takeaways

• Pregnancy increases body temperature sensitivity.
• Avoid overheating, especially in early pregnancy.
• Recognize signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
• Simple steps help stay cool and hydrated.

Why pregnancy makes you more sensitive to heat

You are likely to feel warmer than usual during pregnancy. This is due to hormonal changes and an increase in blood supply to your skin.

Your blood volume increases in pregnancy, pumping more than normal around your body. This, along with hormones, can make you feel hot. You are also likely to sweat more.

Many people say they feel hotter during pregnancy. Warmer weather can make you feel hot and uncomfortable.

Potential risks of overheating for you and your baby

Being pregnant in hot weather can be challenging. It is important to take it easy and stay cool. There is a greater risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke during hot weather.

It's best to avoid getting too hot where you can. A very high body temperature (above 39.2°C) has been linked with a small increase in the risk of developmental problems for your baby. This temperature is not typical without a fever or extreme exercise in a hot climate. It is best to avoid over-exerting yourself, especially in your first trimester.

It's also best to avoid using the following:

• Saunas
• Jacuzzis
• Hot tubs
• Steam rooms

In these heated spaces, your core temperature can rise to an unsafe level for pregnancy. It's hard for your body to cool itself down in these conditions.

Signs of dehydration

If you have any of these symptoms, you may be dehydrated:

• Feeling thirsty
• Wee (urine) that is dark yellow or has a strong smell
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• Feeling tired
• Dry mouth, lips, and eyes
• Not weeing (urinating) very often – fewer than 4 times a day

If you are active or the weather is hot, you are at an even greater risk of dehydration. Drinking increased volumes of fluids will help you stay hydrated.

Simple tips for staying cool and comfortable

• Wear loose clothing – Choose clothes made of natural fibres. These are more absorbent and breathable than synthetic fabrics.
• Keep your room cool – You can use an electric fan to circulate air.
• Wash frequently – This can help you feel fresh.
• Use a fan – A desk fan can be helpful for work or in your bedroom. You can also carry a small, battery-operated fan.
• Stay hydrated – Always carry a bottle of water with you. Have a glass of water before you start any activity.
• Take a cool bath (not cold) – A cool bath can help you feel less hot. The water temperature should not be above 32°C.
• Carry a water spray – You can spray yourself with cold water to cool off quickly.
• Cool your wrists – Put your wrists under cold running water. You can also pour a little water from your bottle over them.
• Wear comfortable shoes and socks – Your feet can swell in the heat, so anything with tight straps might become uncomfortable and start to pinch.
• Rest with your feet up – Do this as much as you can.
• Schedule activities carefully – On hot days, go out in the early morning or evening when it is cooler. Plan indoor activities instead.
• Avoid over-exerting yourself – Take it easy, especially during a heatwave.

When to call your doctor or midwife

Heat exhaustion

The symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Dizziness and confusion
• Loss of appetite and feeling sick
• Excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin
• Cramps in arms, legs, and stomach
• Fast breathing and pulse
• Temperature of 37.5°C or above
• Intense thirst
• Raised heart rate (more than 100 beats per minute)

If you show signs of heat exhaustion, you need to cool down:

1. Move to a cool place and lie down with your feet up.
2. Drink plenty of water.
3. Cool your skin with a fan or a spray of cool water.

You should start to feel better within 30 minutes.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Call 999 if someone with heat exhaustion is no better after 30 minutes, or if you or someone else has any of these signs:

• Feels hot and dry
• Is not sweating even though they are too hot
• Has a temperature that has risen further
• Is breathing rapidly or has shortness of breath
• Is confused
• Has a fit (seizure)
• Loses consciousness
• Is unresponsive