What are the reasons for persistent profuse sweating after a vaginal delivery?

Nov 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, excessive sweating after vaginal delivery may be caused by hormonal imbalance, thermoregulation issues, physical weakness, postpartum anemia, hypoglycemia, or other factors. If experiencing any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. After childbirth, it is important to improve dietary habits by increasing intake of foods rich in iron, calcium, and protein. Adequate rest should be ensured, overexertion avoided, personal hygiene maintained, and undergarments changed frequently.

Generally speaking, persistent sweating after vaginal delivery may be caused by hormonal imbalance, thermoregulation, physical weakness, postpartum anemia, hypoglycemia, and other reasons. If experiencing discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Hormonal Imbalance

During vaginal delivery, women experience significant hormonal fluctuations, which may lead to symptoms such as excessive sweating. With adequate rest, sufficient hydration, and a balanced diet, symptoms generally improve gradually as the body recovers.

2. Thermoregulation

The physical exertion during childbirth and increased metabolic demands during the postpartum recovery period may temporarily affect body temperature regulation, leading to increased sweating. Wearing appropriate clothing, avoiding excessively hot or cold environments, and ensuring good indoor air circulation are recommended.

3. Physical Weakness

During vaginal delivery, the mother expends significant energy, leading to depletion of qi and blood. The body requires time to recover, and during this period, physical weakness due to incomplete recovery of qi and blood may cause excessive sweating. Adequate rest, sufficient sleep, and enhanced nutritional intake are recommended.

4. Postpartum Anemia

Significant blood loss during delivery may lead to postpartum anemia, resulting in insufficient oxygen supply to various body tissues and potential dysfunction, including impaired sweat gland regulation, which may cause excessive sweating. Symptoms may also include pallor, fatigue, and rapid heartbeat. Treatment under a physician's guidance with medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, iron fumarate granules, and folic acid tablets may be necessary.

5. Hypoglycemia

Inappropriate postpartum diet or prolonged intervals between meals may trigger hypoglycemia. The body may release hormones such as adrenaline to raise blood sugar levels, which can cause excessive sweating, hunger, dizziness, and other symptoms. Treatment with medications such as zinc gluconate oral solution, calcium gluconate tablets, and iron gluconate tablets may be considered under medical guidance.

Postpartum, it is important to improve dietary habits by increasing intake of foods rich in iron, calcium, and protein. Adequate rest should be taken, fatigue avoided, and personal hygiene maintained with frequent changes of undergarments.