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From the moment pregnancy begins, your body enters a new metabolic state. You might find yourself tossing the blanket off at night, sweating through a T-shirt, or reaching for a shawl even on a warm day. These temperature changes can feel confusing, especially when they come without warning. But most of the time, they’re normal.
Increased progesterone levels, elevated metabolism, and higher blood volume can all raise your core temperature slightly. But not all temperature shifts are harmless. It's important to learn what’s typical, what might require medical attention, and how to manage the discomforts that come with these fluctuations.
What Causes Body Temperature Fluctuations in Pregnancy?
Pregnancy triggers complex physiological shifts that affect thermoregulation, the body’s ability to maintain a stable temperature.- Hormonal Changes: Progesterone, the hormone that supports early pregnancy, also acts on the hypothalamus, the brain’s thermostat, raising your basal body temperature (BBT) by about 0.5°C from ovulation onward.
- Increased Blood Volume: Your blood volume increases by nearly 40%–50%, boosting circulation and heat production. This can leave you feeling warmer, especially in the face and chest areas.
- Faster Metabolism: The increased energy demands of pregnancy raise your resting metabolic rate, producing more internal heat even when you're at rest.
- Sweat Gland Activation: You may sweat more to compensate for internal heat. This is the body's natural way of cooling down.
- Environmental Sensitivity: Pregnant women often become more sensitive to heat or cold, especially in tropical or humid climates like many parts of India.
What's Normal and What’s Not?
Knowing the difference between a normal rise in body heat and a potential red flag is essential.Normal Temperature Ranges in Pregnancy
- Basal body temperature can stay elevated at 37.0–37.2°C (98.6–99°F)
- You may feel flushed or sweat more, especially at night
- Occasional chills or feeling cold is also common due to hormone fluctuations
- Persistent fever above 38°C (100.4°F): Could indicate infection such as flu, urinary tract infection, or COVID-19
- Chills with high fever: May suggest an underlying bacterial or viral illness
- Fluctuating fevers with rashes or joint pain: Get tested for dengue, malaria, or typhoid, especially during the monsoon season
- Temperature drops below 36°C (96.8°F): Though rare, it may signal a complication such as hypothyroidism or shock
Risk Factors That Make You More Susceptible
Certain conditions can make body temperature fluctuations more extreme:- Anaemia – Reduced oxygen-carrying capacity can heighten fatigue and make you feel cold or weak
- Thyroid disorders – Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect temperature regulation
- Infections – UTIs, respiratory illnesses, and other infections are more common during pregnancy
- Dehydration – Can impair your body’s cooling mechanism, especially in hot weather
- Gestational diabetes – Affects metabolism and thermoregulation
How to Check and Monitor Your Temperature
While it’s common to feel off-balance, having a home thermometer helps track your symptoms.- Digital Thermometers – Use underarm or oral thermometers to track temperature accurately
- Track over time – Don’t rely on a single reading. Chart any pattern over 24–48 hours
- Combine with symptoms – Note if you're experiencing fatigue, chills, backache, or burning while urinating
Managing Body Temperature Swings Safely
For Feeling Too Warm- Wear breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo
- Use ceiling fans and keep rooms well-ventilated
- Stay hydrated—aim for 8–10 glasses of water daily
- Avoid caffeine and spicy food that may raise heat
- Add light layers that are easy to remove
- Warm soups and herbal teas (like tulsi or ginger) can help
- Check for underlying anaemia or thyroid issues
- Avoid cold drinks if they worsen chills
- Rest, hydrate, and take antipyretics only if advised by your doctor
- Avoid self-medicating with antibiotics or herbal remedies
- Seek medical attention if the fever persists or worsens
Emotional and Practical Support
Fluctuating temperatures can also impact your emotional well-being. You might feel irritable, fatigued, or out of control. Support yourself by:- Taking short breaks to cool off or warm up, depending on symptoms, is necessary.
- Communicating with your care team about how you’re feeling physically and emotionally is crucial as well.
- Asking for help, whether it’s a fan, a thermos of hot water, or reassurance, small comforts go a long way.
- Use Ayurvedic care cautiously. Herbs like Shatavari are cooling and safe when supervised; heating herbs like ashwagandha should be avoided unless prescribed.