Postpartum Night Sweats: Why Are They Occurring & What To Do
Hey there, new mamas! Night sweats in the postpartum phase might catch you by surprise, but fret not!
Let's dive into why they happen and how you can deal with them like a pro for a smoother recovery journey. Here's your go-to manual on postpartum night sweats:
What are postpartum night sweats?
Postpartum night sweats are those pesky episodes of super sweating that you might experience during the nighttime in the weeks post childbirth. Yep, those nights of waking up soaked from head to toe!
Signs of postpartum night sweats
How do you know it’s postpartum night sweats? Look out for:
Soaking sweats while you snooze.
Feeling like a little furnace with clammy skin.
Waking up in a damp bed and clothes.
Sleep gets disturbed because of all that perspiration.
The science behind why they occur
Blame it on the hormones! The rollercoaster ride of oestrogen and progesterone levels post-delivery messes with your body's thermostat, leading to those extra perspiration parties, especially at night.
How long does the sweating last?
Expect the sweating marathon to peak in the first couple of weeks after giving birth and gradually fade away in the following weeks. By the fourth to sixth week postpartum, most mamas notice a decrease as hormonal levels find their groove.
Is it normal?
Don't fret, mama! Postpartum night sweats are like your body's way of saying, "Hey, I'm adjusting!" They might be bothersome but rest assured, they're part of the package and usually disappear as your body settles into its new normal.
How to manage the postpartum sweating at night
Keep that water flowing:
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate to stay cool and avoid dehydration.
Bed down in breathable sheets:
Opt for light, moisture-wicking bedding to soak up the sweat and keep the air circulating.
Dress cool:
Rock loose, breathable outfits made of natural fabrics for temperature control.
Chill the room:
Maintain a cosy sleep environment and add fans or AC for some cool airflow.
Dreamland preparation:
Set the sleep scene right with a calming bedtime routine, a dark, quiet room, and avoid late-night caffeine or heavy meals.
Should you call your doctor?
If your postpartum night sweats bring along buddies like fever, chills, pain, or unusual bleeding, ring up your healthcare provider. And if the sweating sticks around longer than expected or becomes a major discomfort, a visit to the doc is a good shout.
Key takeaways
Postpartum night sweats are a hormone-driven norm after birthing. They're peak performers in the first two postpartum weeks, then taper off.
Manage the sweats with hydration, breathable bedding, comfy clothes, and a cool sleep setup. Don't hesitate to seek help for persistent or severe sweats along with other worrisome symptoms.
Embrace the sweaty nights with grace, self-care, and a touch of humour. Remember, prioritising your well-being and reaching out for support when needed paves the way for a smoother transition into motherhood!
Written By: Midwife Laura