What are the Postpartum Night Sweats?
I remember waking up in the middle of the night DRENCHED.
What on earth was happening to me.
A week or so after my firstborn was born, I unexpectedly woke for the six time not to my baby cueing for milk, but because I felt like I had been in a pool and jumped back into bed. It was wildly uncomfortable, I got myself re-dressed and fell back to sleep only to wake up again drenched. This went on for about a week, every night.
Super uncomfortable, but as I found out, totally normal - here is what is actually going on on a physical level in your postpartum body, and some tips on making the postpartum sweaty situation just that little bit more comfortable. We have also added in ways a Postpartum Doula can help to support you - our clients LOVE it.
OK, why am I sweating so much at night?
Waking up drenched in sweat after having your baby? You're not alone.
Postpartum night sweats are a normal —though often unexpected—part of the recovery journey.
After birth, your body goes through major hormonal shifts, especially a drop in estrogen and progesterone. This, along with your body’s effort to eliminate excess fluid retained during pregnancy, can trigger intense sweating—especially at night.
How long will it go on for?
While uncomfortable, the night sweats are typically temporary and resolves within a few weeks after having your baby.
How can I make things comfortable?
Sleeping in light, breathable clothing - tops off for breastfeeding access
Keep hydrated, very important - ask your partner to help with bottle refills
Focus on a nutrient dense diet to support recovery
Go slowly and rest where possible, to heal and recover
Lay a towel if it’s feeling too unmanageable and have a spare pair of pyjamas close by
If co-sleeping is uncomfortable, you might consider having a separate sleeping area for a while until the night sweats subside
How can we help?
As your Postpartum Doula, you will often find us offering to change your sheets. This is because we know that the night sweats are common and likely something you are experiencing, and because we know that changing your own sheets postpartum is a near impossible task, and we’d prefer you to rest your body as it recovers, than try to do it yourself.
We also know that there is nothing better than fresh sheets, especially while sleep deprived and navigating newborn life.
We are here to help you improve your rest and recovery.
Hold The Mother is dedicated to honouring, and holding the Mother during life's biggest transitions. We are Melbourne based Postpartum Doulas supporting families within 30 minutes of Greensborough, Victoria.
We are deeply passionate about community building, connection and wrapping mothers in curated, accessible care. We have a range of services available to meet you at whatever stage you are at, supporting you on the mother of all journeys.
Postpartum Doula Support, Virtual Doula Support, Doula Mentoring, Postpartum Preparation Sessions, Mothers Blessings, Closing of the Bones Ceremonies, Events and Education Workshops, Social Events and Clubs.
For more information visit our Services page, and book in a Connection Call to explore how to work with us.
