Why is overheating bad in pregnancy

Here are some measures to keep your temperature in control, remain hydrated, and reduce exposure to heat during pregnancy These measures are likely to prevent you from overheating in pregnancy. You should see a doctor if you feel overheated or have a fever.

Follow healthy habits, such as having a balanced diet, getting enough rest, de-stressing, and not smoking or drinking, to have a healthy pregnancy. Is Overheating During Pregnancy Common? MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

Nicholas Ravanelli, et al. Environmental limits for exercise and passive heat stress during pregnancy: a systematic review with best evidence synthesis ; BMJ Journals Pregnant this summer? Sadly, climate change is increasing the threat of heat waves, which are especially dangerous for pregnant women. The problem is made worse when extreme temperatures are accompanied by power outages, making it difficult to keep cool.

It's important to protect yourself from getting too hot during pregnancy. Learn the signs of overheating and how to stay safe. If you suspect you're overheating, try moving to a cooler place. Drink plenty of water, put on loose clothing, and try putting wet clothes on your skin or sitting in a bathtub full of cool water.

Seek medical treatment immediately if symptoms get worse or last longer than an hour. Overheating during the first trimester of pregnancy may harm your baby's development. Babies whose moms had an elevated temperature during the first few weeks of pregnancy have an increased risk for heart problems and neural tube defects. Neural tube defects, such as spina bifida , affect the brain and spinal cord. Exposure to extreme heat early in pregnancy may also raise the risk of miscarriage and preterm birth.

One study by the National Institutes of Health found that women exposed to extreme heat waves during the first seven weeks of pregnancy were 11 percent more likely to go into labor early. It's not just hot weather that can put your pregnancy and baby at risk during the first trimester. Doctors also recommend avoiding hot tubs , saunas, and very hot baths early in pregnancy, especially for extended periods of time, because these will raise your body temperature.

Similarly, a high fever also raises your body temperature and should be brought down with medication acetaminophen.

Call your doctor or midwife if you develop a fever in pregnancy. Since your body is already working overtime to keep both you and your baby healthy, it has more trouble keeping cool in extreme heat. You're also more likely to get dehydrated if you're pregnant, preventing you from sweating to cool yourself off. In the worst-case scenario, overheating in pregnancy could lead to serious health problems.

Studies have tied overheating to increased risk of:. Dehydration from overheating can also cause Braxton Hicks contractions false labor pains , and make you feel dizzy or faint. Fainting could result in a fall, putting you at risk for injury or concussion.

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Exercise during pregnancy. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Can I use a sauna or hot tub early in pregnancy? Summer heat brings special health risks for pregnant women.

American Heart Association News. Climate change and extreme heat : What you can do to prepare. If symptoms persist even after drinking water and getting into a cooler place, contact one of our OBGYN doctors right away.

Being out in the sun while pregnant should be limited since you are more prone to getting sunburn. Sweating IS your friend.

It helps to lower your temperature and keep you cool. Swollen legs can become particularly troublesome, and the swelling can substantially increase during the second half of pregnancy and during the summer months. If you work, lie down for 30 minutes each day during your lunch break or immediately after returning home. Enjoy the warmer weather if you can, but be especially careful to stay hydrated and not allow your body temperature to rise much above normal levels.

Leave a review! If you are pregnant, summertime is not your friend. Heat And Dehydration When pregnant your body is already a little warmer than normal. How to Stay Cool First and foremost stay hydrated.