Key points
- Pregnancy can make you more likely to get sick when it's very hot.
- If you are pregnant, know what you can do to protect you and your developing baby from extreme heat.
What increases risk
Why does pregnancy increase your risk of getting sick from extreme heat?
- Pregnancy can make you more likely to get heat exhaustion, heat stroke, or other heat-related illness sooner than those who are not pregnant. This is because your body must work harder to cool down both you and the developing baby.
- Pregnancy can also make you more likely to become dehydrated. This also means you won't be able to cool yourself as well by sweating.
I'm pregnant, why should I be concerned about extreme heat?
- In very hot environments or during strenuous activity, your core body (internal body) temperature may rise.
- In some cases, increased internal temperature and fever during pregnancy have been linked to birth defects and other pregnancy complications.
Stay safe during extreme heat
Stay cool and stay hydrated.
- Follow tips on how to prevent heat-related illness.
- Heavy sweating can remove salt and minerals from your body. Talk to your doctor about how to safely replace salt and minerals lost through sweating.
- Do not engage in very strenuous activities and get plenty of rest.
- Check the local news for health and safety updates regularly.
Learn how to spot heat-related illness.
- Seek medical care immediately if you or someone you know experiences symptoms of heat-related illness.
Content Source:
National Center for Environmental Health