You wake up soaked, the room is not particularly hot, and you were not sick. Or you are mid-conversation and suddenly feel an intense wave of heat. Temperature fluctuations in pregnancy are one of the less-talked-about symptoms, but they affect the majority of pregnant women.
Why Pregnancy Makes You Hot
Your metabolic rate increases by 10-25% during pregnancy, meaning your body is producing significantly more heat. Progesterone raises your basal body temperature. Blood volume increases by up to 50%, pushing more warm blood close to the skin surface. And as your baby grows, they generate heat that you absorb.
| Cause | Trimester When Worst |
|---|---|
| Progesterone raising core temp | First trimester and throughout |
| Metabolic rate increase | Progressive through pregnancy |
| Increased blood volume near skin | Second and third trimester |
| Baby's body heat | Third trimester |
| Night sweating from hormonal shifts | Often peaks in third trimester |
Managing in Singapore's Climate
Singapore's heat and humidity make pregnancy temperature regulation significantly harder. Your body cannot cool as efficiently when the outside air is already warm and humid.
- Set your air conditioning to 23-25°C at night - cooler than you might usually
- Use breathable cotton bedding and sleepwear - avoid synthetic fabrics
- Place a fan directed at your body at night
- Keep a glass of ice water by the bed
- Take cool (not cold) showers before bed
- Avoid heavy meals within 2 hours of bedtime - digestion raises core temperature
Fever vs overheating
Normal pregnancy warmth does not cause a fever. If your temperature is above 38°C (oral), you may have an infection and should contact your doctor. Night sweats alone, without fever or other symptoms, are almost always hormonal.