Why does a postpartum mother feel cold?
⚡ Short answer: Feeling cold during postpartum is quite common and physiological.
Anonymous
yeni anne · Mom
why does a postpartum mother feel cold?
Maiyko AI ADVISOR
The real reply from the in-app AI advisor
Feeling cold during postpartum is quite common and physiological. There are several main reasons:
Hormonal changes: After birth, estrogen and progesterone levels drop rapidly. This hormonal shift affects the body's temperature regulation center, causing sudden hot flashes followed by chills.
Blood loss and circulation: During birth (especially vaginal delivery) approximately 500 ml blood is lost, more with cesarean. This reduces iron stores, potentially causing mild anemia. Anemia causes cold hands/feet and general chilliness.
Energy depletion: Birth is intense physical effort. As the body focuses on healing and milk production, energy typically used for heat generation decreases. Nursing mothers especially burn extra calories for milk making, intensifying the cold feeling.
Sweating: Postpartum bodies shed excess pregnancy fluids through heavy sweating (especially at night). Remaining damp triggers chill sensation.
When to see a doctor: If chilliness is accompanied by fever above 38°C, shivering, foul-smelling discharge, or severe headache (infection signs) — seek gynecologist immediately. Without fever, chilliness typically resolves in 2-3 weeks; warm drinks, layered clothing, and rest help.
*Note: This information is not medical advice; consult your doctor on medications and doses.*
⚕️ Health note: This answer is for general information only; it is not medical advice. Every baby is different — for decisions about your baby's health, consult your pediatrician.
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