Why am I so sweaty? Postpartum Night Sweats. That’s Why.
Postpartum. The sweat sesh you didn’t RSVP to. If your soaked sheets are waking you up more often than your newborn, let’s talk about what to do and red flags for testing.
January 27, 2025
Welcome to motherhood. Did you know it would be so sweaty? We prepare ourselves for labor and delivery, but not for the postpartum hormone cliff that sends you straight into (temporary) menopause and turns your bedroom into an all night sauna.
Let’s talk about night sweats, what’s going on with your postpartum hormones, how much sweat is too much sweat, and what to do for some sweaty relief.
Let’s dig into what causes postpartum night sweats, what’s going on with your postpartum hormones, how long they last, and—most importantly—how you can feel less like a soggy towel during this season of recovery.
What causes postpartum night sweats?
The short answer? Hormones and fluids. Here’s the breakdown:
The Postpartum Hormone Cliff
During pregnancy, your estrogen and progesterone levels are as high as they will ever be in your life. Within 7 days delivery, however, they both plummet to menopausal levels. This hormonal crash triggers hot flashes and night sweats, much like what many women experience during menopause. It’s your body’s way of trying to recalibrate after growing a human for nine months.
Fluid Overload
Your body held onto extra fluids during pregnancy to support both you and your baby, and if you had IV fluids during delivery, there’s even more to get rid of. Sweating is one of your body’s quickest ways to expel all that extra water. You’re probably peeing more than usual right now as well.
Estrogen and postpartum night sweats
Estrogen doesn’t just regulate your periods and trigger ovulation—it’s also your body’s internal thermostat. When estrogen levels tank postpartum, your body’s ability to regulate temperature goes haywire. You might feel like someone cranked the heat, even if your bedroom is an icebox.
Breastfeeding can prolong this sweaty phase because prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, suppresses estrogen. It’s a double-edged sword: great for feeding the baby, less great for getting a good night’s sleep.
Are postpartum night sweats normal?
Yes, postpartum night sweats are normal, especially during the first 2-3 weeks after birth. Your body is busy recalibrating and flushing out excess fluids.
However, it’s not normal if:
Night sweats persist beyond the first month or so without improvement. You may still be a bit hot and sweaty for several more months if you’re breastfeeding, but the big drench-your-pajamas level of sweating should improve after about a month.
They come with symptoms like fever, chills, or severe fatigue.
You’re feeling completely wiped out despite rest and hydration.
When to Be Concerned
If night sweats linger past 3-6 months, come with extreme fatigue, or pair with other symptoms (like fever or weight changes), consult your doctor. Thyroid testing, infection screening, or a review of your overall recovery may be necessary.
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What if postpartum night sweats last beyond the first month?
Ok so you’re worried you’ve moved past that “normal” time frame? Here’s why you might be sweaty well into the 4th trimester and beyond:
Breastfeeding Hormones
Prolactin suppresses estrogen, which means hormonal balance may take longer to stabilize if you’re nursing. Some moms deal with night sweats until baby starts eating solids or weaning begins. But if the sweats continue to be extreme for the entire time, still check in with your provider.Thyroid Imbalances
Postpartum thyroiditis is more common than most moms realize. Both overactive and underactive thyroids can trigger symptoms like sweating, fatigue, and mood swings.Stress and Cortisol
Stress is a given during postpartum life, and prolonged stress increases cortisol levels, which can mess with your body’s ability to regulate temperature.You’re old. (Sorry. But also, same.)
If you’re both postpartum and perimenopausal at the same time - aka had a baby in your late 30s or anytime in 40s - you’re fighting agains the slow downward turn of your hormones during perimenopause as well as the postpartum hormone drop. This doesn’t mean you are destined for a sweaty life from here to eternity. It just means we need to double down on the hormone support. Read more about perimenopause meets postpartum here.
Herbs for postpartum night sweats
Certain herbs can help support hormonal balance, I use these in my practice as a functional dietitian with my postpartum moms. Here are two top picks:
Maca: This root is a nutrient-packed adaptogen that helps regulate hormones and boost energy. It’s food-based and easy to add to smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods.
Shatavari: An Ayurvedic herb known for its ability to balance hormones and support milk production. This comes in tincture and capsule form.
Always consult your healthcare provider before introducing herbs, especially when breastfeeding.
Foods for Postpartum Night Sweats
Your diet plays a massive role in hormonal balance, hydration, and overall recovery. Here are some key foods to incorporate:
Flaxseeds: These little hormone superheroes contain lignans, which can help stabilize estrogen levels. Add 1-2 Tablespoons per day into smoothies, oatmeal, or yogurt.
Magnesium foods: Nuts, seeds, and leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in magnesium, which supports sleep and reduces stress-induced sweating.
Healthy Fats: Think avocado, salmon, and walnuts. Healthy fats are the building blocks of hormone production.
Sodium. You’re losing a lot of salt in that sweat, so you don’t want to get too depleted. Adding a pinch of sea salt into your water will help with that balance.
Hydrating Foods: Cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges help replenish fluids lost through sweating.
Protein-Rich Foods: Eggs, lean meats, and tofu help maintain stable blood sugar levels, which can reduce hot flashes and improve energy.
Bone Broth: Rich in minerals and electrolytes, it’s a fantastic choice for hydration and recovery.
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Tips for managing postpartum night sweats
While you wait for your body to recalibrate, here are some ways to stay comfortable:
Cool Your Space: Sleep with a fan, lower the thermostat, or invest in a cooling mattress pad.
Wear the Right Pajamas: Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like bamboo or cotton. Better yet, take off the pajamas altogether.
Hydrate Smart: Replace fluids with water and electrolyte drinks to avoid dehydration.
Sleep on a Towel: Saves you the trouble of washing your sheets daily.
Postpartum night sweats may be an annoying side effect of recovery, but they’re also a sign your body is doing its job—healing and adjusting. By giving your body the nourishment and rest it needs, you’ll not only feel better but also support your long-term hormonal health.
If you’re ready to take control of your postpartum experience, let’s work together to make this season less sweaty and more empowering.
xo
Alison
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