What causes diaphoresis (excessive sweating) in the early postpartum period?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: February 14, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Research

Causes of Diaphoresis in the Early Postpartum Period

The exact causes of diaphoresis (excessive sweating) in the early postpartum period are not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, possible causes of excessive sweating in general can be considered:

  • Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during the postpartum period may contribute to excessive sweating 1.
  • Autonomic nervous system: The sympathetic nervous system, part of the autonomic nervous system, plays a role in regulating sweating, and abnormalities in this system may lead to hyperhidrosis 2, 3.
  • Underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, may cause excessive sweating 1.
  • Medication use: Some medications may trigger excessive sweating 4.

Classification of Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis can be classified as:

  • Primary (idiopathic): Often triggered by emotional stimuli, but not generally a psychiatric disease 2, 4.
  • Secondary: Due to an underlying systemic disease or medication use 4.
  • Generalized: Involves the entire body and is usually part of an underlying condition 5.
  • Focal: Idiopathic, occurring in otherwise healthy people, and affects one or more body areas 5.

Diagnosis and Management

Diagnosis and management of hyperhidrosis can significantly improve a patient's quality of life 5. Various treatments are available, including topical, systemic, surgical, and nonsurgical options, with efficacy rates greater than 90%-95% 5.

References

Research

Hyperhidrosis: what is it and why does it occur?

Thoracic surgery clinics, 2008

Research

Sweating Disorders.

Continuum (Minneapolis, Minn.), 2020

Research

In hyperhidrosis (excess sweating), look for a pattern and cause.

Cleveland Clinic journal of medicine, 2003

Research

Focal hyperhidrosis: diagnosis and management.

CMAJ : Canadian Medical Association journal = journal de l'Association medicale canadienne, 2005

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.