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
![Pregnant woman is drinking water while outside on a sunny day.](/https/www.cdc.gov/extreme-heat/media/images/pregnant-woman-drinking-water-in-hot-weather.jpg)
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