Let's look at what progesterone does and why it matters to you.
In this article:
What Is Progesterone & What Is Its Significance?
Progesterone is a natural hormone produced by your ovaries, and then your placenta takes over later in pregnancy. It prepares your uterus for a fertilised egg to attach and grow properly. If you don’t have enough progesterone, it could be hard to get pregnant and make the journey smoother.Apart from all these, progesterone also helps regulate your body's energy use, blood flow, and body temperature, especially during the initial weeks of conception.
What Is the Connection Between Progesterone and Your Body Temperature?
Your body’s progesterone level surges after you ovulate. This hormone signals your hypothalamus (which controls body temperature) to increase your basal body temperature slightly.Usually, this temperature rises between 0.3 and 0.5°C and stays like that until your next period or through the first trimester in case of pregnancy.
So, if you've ever tracked your temperature to figure out if you’re ovulating, that post-ovulation temperature rise is progesterone at work. In the initial weeks of pregnancy, maintaining a warm, stable environment helps support the developing embryo.
Why Do You Need to Stay Warm During Early Pregnancy?
Keeping your body a bit warmer helps the baby’s growth and early cell development naturally. The warmth ensures the environment in your womb is just right for the baby. Staying warm helps because:- It helps the blood flow better to your placenta and uterus.
- It speeds up your metabolism, giving both you and your baby more energy.
- Protects from sudden temperature drops that could affect implantation stability.
Is It Okay to Feel Warmer than Usual?
Absolutely normal. Many individuals report sweating or feeling warmer than usual, particularly at night. Some even notice their hands and face feeling flushed.However, you must differentiate between a progesterone-related temperature rise and an actual fever.
- A rise in temperature during pregnancy stays below 100°F
- If your temperature rises above 100°F and is accompanied by chills, body aches, or fatigue, it may be a sign of an infection that requires medical attention
What Other Changes Happen in Your Body Due to Progesterone?
Progesterone helps keep you warm, but it also affects many systems in your body, so that you might feel:- Tired or sleepy because progesterone can be calming.
- Your breasts may feel tender as your body prepares for breastfeeding.
- Digestion issues might make you feel bloated or constipated.
- You could have mood swings since progesterone messes with brain chemicals that affect how you feel.
How Can You Support Healthy Progesterone Levels in a Natural Manner?
- It’s essential to maintain a balanced weight. Gaining or losing too much weight can disrupt hormonal balance.
- Eat foods with Vitamin B6, zinc, and magnesium, like nuts, leafy vegetables, and whole grains.
- Release your stress. High stress can increase cortisol levels, which can mess with progesterone.
- Stay away from smoking or drinking alcohol, as they can mess with your hormone function.
- Get enough sleep. Sleep helps regulate your hormone cycles.
When Should You Talk to Your Physician?
Contact your doctor if you notice:- You have a fever above 100°F that doesn’t get cured
- Dizziness, dehydration, or chills
- Unusual tiredness or spotting
- Body temperature might dip a bit in the first few weeks of pregnancy
What’s Next?
- In the morning, monitor your body temperature before getting out of bed
- Be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and nourished
- Wear light, comfortable, and loose clothes to deal with the heat
- Get enough rest since your body is working hard to help the baby grow
- Eat small, nourished food to support consistent energy
- Attend all the follow-ups and mention any unusual temperature fluctuations
Emotional & Social Considerations
If you feel warmer than usual, it may be a bit worrying, particularly if you’re unsure what's normal. However, keep in mind that your body undergoes changes when you’re expecting. Discussing your experiences with your partner, loved ones, or support group can be really helpful. Having someone to support you can make you feel calmer and more self-assured.Progesterone is one of the silent warriors of early pregnancy. It helps prevent miscarriage by keeping your uterus healthy, and maintains an optimal temperature in your body for your baby to grow.
So, if you’re seeing your body temperature rising or feeling warmer than usual, it just means your body is working behind the scenes to keep your foetus healthy while it grows. Ensure you drink an adequate amount of water, practice mindfulness, and remember that these changes are perfectly normal as your body prepares for a healthy conception.
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FAQs on Why Progesterone Helps Maintain Body Temperature in Early Pregnancy
- Is a higher body temperature an early indicator of conception?
Yes. A slight increase in the basal body temperature, because of progesterone, is often one of the primary signs of pregnancy. - What does it mean if your body temperature is low when you’re pregnant?
A sudden drop in temperature could indicate low progesterone or other complications. You should talk to your doctor to help detect and treat it. - How to get comfort from feeling hot?
Wearing comfortable fabrics, staying hydrated, using fans or cool compresses, and resting in a cool environment can help. These small steps can help you feel more comfortable.
