In this article:
Understanding What’s Normal
Having a little bit of a fever or shivering doesn't always mean you have an infection. In fact, a lot of individuals feel it within minutes or hours of giving birth. People commonly call it postpartum chills or labour shaking.You might tremble a lot, clatter your teeth, or feel cold even while you're under warm blankets. It normally lasts for 20 to 30 minutes and then goes away on its own.
After giving birth, you may also get a mild fever of up to 100.4°F (38°C). It usually goes away on its own as your body settles down.
Why Shivering Happens During or After Delivery
There isn’t just one reason; several factors can trigger shivering during or after birth. Here are the most common ones:a. Hormonal Changes
Your hormone levels change quickly after you give birth. Adrenaline and oxytocin are two hormones that rise during labour to help your body deal with contractions and push your baby out. After birth, their levels drop swiftly.Your body's temperature-regulation centre can get confused by this sudden change, which could make you shiver.
b. Body Temperature Fluctuations
Labour is hard physical work, like running a marathon. Your muscles create heat, you sweat, and your body loses fluids. You can start to shiver when your body cools down and your internal temperature changes.c. Response to Anaesthesia or Epidural
Shivering is a relatively typical adverse effect of having an epidural or spinal anaesthesia during labour or a C-section. Anaesthesia can change how your body feels warmth, making you feel cold even when you're not. This kind of shivering normally ends when the drug wears off.d. Emotional Release
Giving birth is an emotional time. You feel excited, relieved, tired, and happy all at the same time. Your body may shake after hours of hard work and focus as a way to let go of all that stress.Your body is telling you, "It's over now, breathe."
e. Blood Flow Changes
Your blood flow changes once the baby is born. Your body starts to move blood around, the uterus contracts, and the flow of blood changes. This can make you feel cold or wobbly for a short time.What Causes Fever During or After Delivery
A slight fever is usually nothing to worry about, although it might sometimes mean that you have an infection or inflammation. It depends on when it shows up and how high the temperature gets.a. Normal Adjustment
A mild temperature (up to 100.4°F or 38°C) shortly after giving birth is usually just your body reacting to the stress of labour. Your immune system is working hard, and your body has been working hard. This can make your temperature go up a little.b. Dehydration
You might get a little dehydrated during or after delivery, especially if you've been sweating a lot or haven't had enough water. This can make your body temperature go up a little.c. Breast Engorgement
When your milk starts to flow, your breasts may feel heavy, hard, and warm. This can sometimes make the baby have a minor fever in the first few days after birth, which is called "milk fever." It normally doesn't hurt anything and goes away once feeding becomes regular.d. Infection (Less Common but Important)
It could indicate an infection if your fever is higher than 100.4°F and lasts longer than 24 hours. Some common causes are:- Uterine infection (especially after prolonged labour or C-section)
- Urinary tract infection
- Breast infection (mastitis)
- Epidural site infection (rare). These need medical attention, so don’t ignore a persistent or rising fever.
What You Can Do for Shivering After Delivery
If you start shivering, remember, it’s usually short and harmless. Here’s what can help:- Stay warm: Ask for extra blankets or wear socks
- Relax your body: Take slow, deep breaths, and the shivering will pass
- Hold your baby: Skin-to-skin contact can calm both you and your baby, and helps your body regulate temperature
- Avoid panic: Know that your body is adjusting; it’s a sign that things are settling down.
When to Call the Doctor
While most postpartum chills or fevers are harmless, you should contact your healthcare provider if you notice:- Fever above 100.4°F (38°C) that lasts more than a day
- Severe abdominal pain or foul-smelling discharge
- Burning or pain while urinating
- Red, painful, or swollen breasts
- Feeling unusually weak or dizzy
Shivering or fever after delivery can feel unsettling, but it’s usually your body’s normal response to the hard work of giving birth. The hormonal changes, blood shifts, and exhaustion all play a role. Most of the time, it passes quickly and needs only warmth, rest, and hydration.
But if you ever feel that something isn’t right, like a high or lasting fever, trust your instincts and call your doctor. Remember, your body has just done something incredible. Give it the time, care, and comfort it deserves.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on What Causes Shivering Or Fever During Or After Delivery
- Is it normal to shiver right after giving birth?
Yes, it’s very common. Many individuals experience postpartum chills due to hormonal and temperature changes. It usually lasts only 20–30 minutes. - Can I breastfeed if I have a mild fever?
Yes, you can. Most mild fevers after delivery are not infections, and breastfeeding helps both you and your baby stay close and calm. - When should I worry about a fever after birth?
If your temperature goes above 100.4°F (38°C) and lasts more than 24 hours, or if you have pain, foul-smelling discharge, or weakness, contact your doctor immediately.
