Is it normal to be cold when pregnant?

Why This Happens

Feeling cold during pregnancy is usually not a sign of a problem, but rather a result of the significant physiological changes your body undergoes to support a growing baby. Here are a few common explanations:

• Hormonal Fluctuations: Pregnancy triggers a massive surge in hormones, including progesterone. These changes can affect the hypothalamus—the part of the brain that acts as the body’s thermostat—potentially making you more sensitive to drops in temperature.
• Blood Volume and Circulation: Your body produces significantly more blood during pregnancy to supply the placenta. While the overall volume is higher, the way blood is distributed may change, sometimes leaving extremities like hands and feet feeling colder.
• Metabolic Changes: Your energy needs increase dramatically during pregnancy. If you are not consuming enough calories or if your blood sugar dips, your body may prioritize warming your core organs over your skin and limbs, leading to a feeling of coldness.

What It Might Mean in Your Situation

Whether feeling cold is “normal” for you often depends on the pattern and the accompanying symptoms. For some, it is a fleeting sensation that comes and goes throughout the day; for others, it is a consistent state throughout a specific trimester.

Consider the following nuances:

• Timing: Early pregnancy often involves the most volatile hormonal shifts, which may cause more temperature swings.
• Consistency: If you have always been someone who “runs cold,” pregnancy may simply amplify this baseline tendency.
• Accompanying Fatigue: If the coldness is paired with extreme exhaustion, it could be a sign that your body is struggling to keep up with energy demands.
• Dietary Intake: If you are experiencing nausea or food aversions that limit your caloric intake, your body may lack the fuel necessary to maintain a high internal temperature.

What To Do About It

1. Layer Your Clothing: Instead of one heavy garment, wear several thin layers. This allows you to easily add or remove clothing as your temperature fluctuates throughout the day.
2. Communicate Your Needs: If you share a living space with a partner or roommates, let them know your needs have changed. You might say, “I’ve been feeling much colder than usual lately due to the pregnancy; would you mind if we turned the heat up a few degrees or if I use an extra blanket in the living room?”
3. Monitor Your Nutrition and Hydration: Focus on eating small, frequent, nutrient-dense meals to keep your blood sugar stable. Staying hydrated also helps maintain healthy circulation, which can keep you warmer.

Real-Life Example

Sarah, who is 14 weeks pregnant, found herself shivering in the office even though her colleagues were comfortable. Initially, she felt frustrated and wondered if something was wrong. Instead of ignoring it, she started bringing a dedicated “office shawl” and a thermos of warm lemon water. She explained to her partner that she was feeling colder than usual at night, and they agreed to use a heavier duvet on her side of the bed. By acknowledging the physical change and adjusting her environment, Sarah reduced her stress and stayed comfortable.

Related Questions

• Why do I feel hot and cold during pregnancy?
• Is it normal to have cold hands and feet when pregnant?
• Does pregnancy fatigue affect how I feel temperature?
• What are the safest ways to warm up during pregnancy?

When To Seek Outside Help

While feeling cold is often normal, it can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying condition, such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) or anemia (low iron), both of which are common during pregnancy. You should contact your OB-GYN or a qualified healthcare professional if the coldness is accompanied by severe fatigue, brittle nails, very dry skin, or extreme mood changes. If you experience sudden, severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or a high fever along with chills, seek immediate medical attention via local emergency services.