How To Manage Sweat At Night During Pregnancy

The first thing to say is that sweating in pregnancy is very common. During pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations can make it challenging for your body to regulate its temperature.

You could get hot flushes during the day and night sweats, too. Want to know why? We’ll take you through the main causes of sweat at night during pregnancy and what you can do about it.

When you’re pregnant, the part of your brain that regulates your heat levels is affected by the change in hormones – a bit like a faulty thermostat. And that causes you to sweat more.

What causes night sweats during pregnancy?

Increased hormones and blood flow are the most common causes for night sweats during pregnancy.

When you’re pregnant, both your hormone levels and blood flow increase, causing your body temperature to rise. Your body then reacts by sweating to cool you down.

Some women will experience sweating after pregnancy as well. Again, this is nothing to be alarmed about. It’s simply because your body will have excess fluid to get rid of, and your hormone levels need to rebalance themselves.¹

7 tips on how to manage sweat during pregnancy

Do you sweat more when pregnant? Here are some tips to make sweating during pregnancy slightly easier to manage:

1. Make time to wash or shower regularly

At least once a day, and more frequently if you feel the need.

2. Use an antiperspirant deodorant every day

Antiperspirant and deodorant – aren't they the same thing? Nope. They both help you fight sweat but in different ways. Antiperspirants reduce the amount you sweat using aluminum, whereas deodorants mask the smell of sweat by targeting odor-causing bacteria.

They’re both perfectly safe to use during pregnancy. If you’re sweating a lot, try using a stronger product like the Degree® Shower Clean Clinical Antiperspirant Deodorant for Women.

3. Wear loose-fitting clothes and choose natural fibers

Loose-fitting cotton, silk, and wool help your skin breathe more. And go for cotton underwear as it’ll be more breathable, too.

Struggling with sweat stains on your new maternity clothes? Check this guide for excellent tips on effectively getting rid of sweat stains. Better yet, take a proactive step to fight against sweat stains and deodorant marks with our UltraClear range.

Try: Degree®UltraClear Black+ White Pure Rain Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick that offers up to 72 hours of sweat and odor protection, and has a subtle, refreshing scent. Plus, its anti-white mark and anti-yellow stain technology fights against deodorant and sweat marks on your clothes.

4. Workout the smart way

Exercising during pregnancy offers so many benefits, including serving as an excellent stress reliever. If you’ve been sweating more while exercising since you’ve become pregnant, try to wear breathable, sweat-wicking materials like polyester sports blends.

It’s also good to do your workouts during the coolest part of the day, whether it’s a walk in the park or a yoga session. Depending on where you live, this is usually in the morning and the evening.

5. Be careful with what you eat and drink

You’re probably avoiding most of these anyway, but alcohol, caffeine, spicy food, and smoking can all make you sweat more.

6. Stay hydrated

Always carry a bottle of water with you, to keep you cool and hydrated.

7. Keep your bedroom cool

If you’re getting night sweats, always leave a window open. Wear cotton, wool, or silk nightwear. You could also consider switching to lighter duvets and more breathable bedclothes.

Sweating a bit more during pregnancy is completely normal, so don't let it hold you back from enjoying what you love most. Armed with the knowledge to stay cool and reduce sweating, embrace every moment with confidence.

References:

1. Postpartum night sweats. Cleveland clinic. Reviewed 2023.