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Are you waking up drenched in sweat?

Author:
EM
Enf.ª Margarida LançaSpecialist Nurse in Maternal and Obstetric Health

Last updated 25 August 2026

In the first days or weeks after birth you may notice that you sweat much more, especially at night. Some women even wake up with their pyjamas or sheets soaked. It can be uncomfortable and even surprising, but it is very common at this stage.

During pregnancy, your body retained more fluids and increased its blood volume to meet the needs of the pregnancy. After birth, it no longer needs this extra volume and begins to eliminate it, mainly through urine and sweat. The major hormonal shift that happens after birth also contributes to these episodes of sweating.

You may also feel that your body odour is different or more intense

Have you just had a shower and feel like you need another one? It can happen.

Cool, breathable clothing, keeping an extra pair of pyjamas by the bed, changing the sheets when needed, and staying well hydrated can help make this phase more comfortable.