From the Guidelines
Night sweats during pregnancy are primarily caused by hormonal fluctuations, particularly increased levels of estrogen and progesterone, as well as physiological changes such as increased blood volume and cardiac output. These hormonal changes affect the body's temperature regulation system, leading to excessive sweating, especially at night 1. Some key factors contributing to nocturnal hyperhidrosis during pregnancy include:
- Increased blood flow throughout the body, generating more heat
- Metabolic changes to support the growing baby, producing additional warmth
- Anxiety and stress, common during pregnancy, triggering the body's fight-or-flight response and causing sweating
- Potential hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which may cause night sweats, particularly if meals are skipped It is essential to note that while night sweats are typically normal during pregnancy, they can be a symptom of an underlying condition, such as a cardiovascular disease, which may be affected by the physiological changes during pregnancy, including increases in blood volume and cardiac output, and reductions in systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure 1. To manage night sweats, pregnant women can try wearing lightweight, breathable clothing to bed, keeping their bedroom cool, staying hydrated, using layered bedding for temperature adjustment, and considering a cooling mattress pad. However, if night sweats are accompanied by fever, chest pain, or other concerning symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider, as these could indicate an underlying condition requiring medical attention.
From the Research
Nocturnal Hyperhidrosis (Night Sweats) During Pregnancy
- The exact causes of nocturnal hyperhidrosis during pregnancy are not directly addressed in the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, study 3 discusses nighttime hot flashes during pregnancy, which may be related to nocturnal hyperhidrosis.
- The study found that 35% of women reported nighttime hot flashes during pregnancy, and the predictors of these hot flashes included depressive symptoms, low education, and higher body mass index 3.
- It is possible that similar factors may contribute to nocturnal hyperhidrosis during pregnancy, but further research is needed to confirm this.
- The other studies provided focus on antibiotic use during pregnancy 2, 4, 5, 6, which may not be directly related to nocturnal hyperhidrosis.
- Therefore, there is limited evidence to support a specific cause of nocturnal hyperhidrosis during pregnancy, and more research is needed to fully understand this condition.