How to Cope with Postpartum Night Sweats

13 December 2025

Let’s talk about something nobody really warns you about after having a baby — postpartum night sweats. Yep, motherhood has its magical moments, but waking up drenched in sweat night after night isn't one of them.

You’ve just become a mom. You’re braving diaper changes at 3 a.m., running on fumes, and now, out of nowhere, you’re waking up soaked as if you sprinted through a tropical storm in your pajamas. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

In this post, we're going to dig deep into what postpartum night sweats are, why they happen, and most importantly — how to deal with them like the warrior mama you are.

What Exactly Are Postpartum Night Sweats?

Postpartum night sweats are exactly what they sound like: excessive sweating during the night following childbirth. We're not talking about light perspiration — we're talking sheets-soaked, change-your-pajamas kind of sweating.

And just to be clear — this isn’t because your baby is snuggled up next to you like a mini human space heater. This is hormonal, unpredictable, and for some moms, downright frustrating.

Why Do Postpartum Night Sweats Happen?

The root cause? Hormones. Because isn’t that the answer to almost every postpartum mystery?

After you give birth, your estrogen and progesterone levels take a nosedive. At the same time, your body is trying to flush out all the excess fluids it held during pregnancy. That hormonal rollercoaster, combined with fluid retention going out the door, results in your body pumping sweat out like it’s running a marathon... while you sleep.

And guess what? If you're breastfeeding, hormone fluctuations stick around even longer. Prolactin — the hormone responsible for milk production — can continue to impact your internal thermostat. So yes, even months after delivery, those sweaty nights might still visit you now and then.

Is It Normal?

Totally. This is one of those "gross but normal" things they rarely mention in baby books. In fact, many moms experience night sweats in the first few weeks after childbirth. For some, they can last a few months.

However, if your night sweats are extremely severe, persisting beyond the fourth month, or if they’re accompanied by a fever or other strange symptoms — it’s worth checking in with your doctor. Because while postpartum hormones are wild, other health issues (like thyroid disorders or infections) can mimic similar symptoms.

How Long Do Postpartum Night Sweats Last?

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. For some moms, the sweating slows down after a week or two. Others might deal with it for a few months — especially if they’re breastfeeding.

On average, most women see these night sweats ease up within the first 6–8 weeks postpartum. But again, everyone’s body is different. Give yourself some grace. Your body just made a human!

Tips and Tricks to Cope With Postpartum Night Sweats

Now that we know the “why,” let’s talk about the “how.”

Nobody wants to wake up in a puddle of sweat night after night. These handy strategies might help you stay a little drier and a whole lot more comfortable.

1. Hydrate Like It’s Your Job

Sweating drains out fluids from your body big time. And when you’re also nursing or healing, it’s crucial to stay hydrated.

Try to keep a big water bottle by your bed. Sip throughout the night if you wake up. Coconut water is also a great option — it’s full of electrolytes that help balance your body’s fluids.

2. Dress (and Sleep) Light

Now’s not the time for cozy flannel pajamas — no matter how cute they are.

Go for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. Moisture-wicking sleepwear (yep, that’s a thing!) can be a godsend. You might even consider sleeping naked or in just your underwear with a thin sheet — the goal is minimal insulation.

Same goes for bedding. Ditch heavy blankets and opt for something lighter. You can always layer up if you get chilly.

3. Keep the Room Cool

You’re sweaty. Your baby’s bundled. What’s the easy fix? Lower the thermostat.

Most pediatricians recommend keeping the nursery temp between 68–72°F (20–22°C) anyway — it’s safe for babies AND helps keep you cooler while you sleep.

If adjusting the thermostat isn’t an option, try a fan. A small bedside fan can do wonders when it comes to keeping the sweat at bay.

4. Use Absorbent Bedding and Liners

Protect your sheets and your sanity.

Try laying a towel or absorbent pad under you to catch the worst of it. You can also find waterproof mattress protectors to keep your bed from feeling like a swamp. That way, if you need to change something quickly in the middle of the night, it’s fast and fuss-free.

5. Take a Shower Before Bed

Nothing feels quite as refreshing as a cool shower at the end of a long day — especially when sweat is involved.

Rinsing off before bed helps lower your body temperature and washes away any salty residue that can irritate your skin. Bonus: it can help you feel more relaxed, which is a major win for sleep-deprived moms.

6. Watch What You Eat (and Drink)

Some foods and drinks can actually trigger night sweats. Caffeine, spicy meals, and alcohol are common culprits.

Now, this doesn’t mean you have to cut out your beloved morning coffee or that glass of wine forever. But being mindful, especially in the evenings, might help reduce how much you sweat at night.

7. Practice Stress-Reducing Techniques

Stress can crank up your body’s internal thermostat. And let's be real — being a new parent is stressful.

Find small moments to breathe. Try deep breathing, simple yoga stretches, or even five quiet minutes with your eyes closed. Apps like Calm, Headspace, or Insight Timer offer quick guided meditations — some are mom-specific too.

Your body and mind are deeply connected. Managing stress can sometimes make a surprising difference physically.

8. Keep a Change of Clothes Handy

Nothing’s worse than waking up drenched… and then having to stumble to the drawer to find clean clothes in the dark.

Make it easy on yourself. Keep a clean pair of pajamas (and maybe an extra sheet or towel) within reach. That way, if a middle-of-the-night change is needed, it’s as painless as possible.

When Should You See a Doctor?

This is super important, so let’s get serious for a sec.

While postpartum night sweats are usually harmless and hormonally driven, certain signs mean it’s time to check in with your healthcare provider:

- The sweats last beyond 3–4 months
- You have a persistent fever
- Sweats are accompanied by fast heartbeat, chills, or dizziness
- You feel unusually cold after sweating
- You experience unexplained weight loss

Sometimes these symptoms can point to thyroid issues or infections. Better safe than sorry.

Can You Prevent Postpartum Night Sweats Altogether?

Short answer — not really. Your body’s going through an epic hormonal overhaul, and some side effects (like night sweats) are just part of the journey.

BUT… you can make it more manageable. Think of it like riding a wave — you might not stop the swell, but you can grab a solid surfboard and ride it out like a boss. The tips above can help you stay cool, comfy, and just a little bit more sane.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone

Okay mama, here’s the deal. Postpartum night sweats are annoying. They’re uncomfortable, disruptive, and just plain weird. But they’re also very, very normal.

Your body is healing. It’s realigning its hormones. It’s letting go of excess fluids, making milk, and doing a thousand other behind-the-scenes things to get you back to feeling like... well, you.

Give yourself grace. Be kind to your body. And don’t hesitate to ask for help — whether it's with nighttime baby duties, laundry, or just moral support.

You’ve just done something incredible: you brought life into the world. A little sweat won’t stop you now.