Lactation
Why Do I Feel Cold During Early Pregnancy? Explained
motherly·May 4, 2026
The Main Reason: Basal Body Temperature Fluctuations
After ovulation, the body’s basal body temperature (BBT) rises slightly — usually by 0.2 to 0.5 degrees Celsius. If conception occurs, this elevated temperature is maintained by progesterone. But around weeks 4 to 8, blood volume begins expanding dramatically — by up to 50% over the course of pregnancy. Blood vessels dilate to accommodate this increase. This vasodilation redistributes heat to the skin and extremities, leaving your core feeling cooler than usual — and triggering the sensation of feeling cold.
Other Reasons You May Feel Cold in Early Pregnancy
1
Anaemia
Iron-deficiency anaemia is extremely common in Indian women — even before pregnancy. When you’re anaemic, your blood carries less oxygen, leading to poor circulation, fatigue, and feeling cold. A blood test (CBC and serum ferritin) will tell you if this is a factor.
2
Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid slows metabolism, causing cold intolerance, fatigue, weight gain, and constipation — all symptoms that overlap significantly with early pregnancy. A TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) test is part of standard first trimester screening.
3
Low Blood Pressure
Blood pressure drops in early pregnancy as blood vessels relax. Low blood pressure reduces circulation to the extremities — hands, feet, and the skin surface — causing you to feel cold. Especially noticeable when standing up quickly.
4
Low Blood Sugar
If you’re struggling with morning sickness and eating less than usual, blood sugar levels can drop. Hypoglycaemia causes shivering, cold sweats, and a feeling of chilliness. Eating small, frequent meals is the best management strategy.
5
Dehydration
Mild dehydration — common when morning sickness makes drinking fluids difficult — affects circulation and temperature regulation. Staying well-hydrated is important.
6
Immune System Changes
Early pregnancy involves deliberate immune suppression to prevent rejection of the embryo. This can occasionally leave you feeling run-down, with mild chills similar to the start of a cold.
Is Feeling Cold Ever a Warning Sign?
Most of the time, no. But there are circumstances where feeling cold alongside other symptoms warrants medical attention:
- Fever with chills — infection risk should be assessed promptly in pregnancy
- Extreme fatigue, pallor, and dizziness alongside coldness — could indicate significant anaemia
- Coldness with rapid heartbeat — could indicate thyroid issues or anaemia
- Cold, clammy skin with dizziness and fainting — seek immediate care
How to Stay Comfortable
Layer Clothing
Keep a shawl or light dupatta handy even in warm months.
Wear Warm Socks
Extremities lose heat fastest — keeping feet warm makes a significant difference.
Eat Warm, Nourishing Foods
Soups, dal, khichdi, warm sabzis — all contribute to internal warmth and nourishment.
Drink Warm (Not Hot) Liquids
Ginger chai, warm nimbu paani, haldi milk in moderation — soothing and warming.
Maintain Blood Sugar
Eat small meals every 2 to 3 hours to prevent blood sugar drops that worsen cold sensations.
Get Checked
Get your haemoglobin and thyroid checked — both are standard first trimester tests.
When to Ask Your Doctor
Mention feeling cold at your next appointment. Request a check of haemoglobin, ferritin, TSH, and blood pressure. These are standard first trimester investigations. If any are abnormal, they can be corrected early with significant benefit to your pregnancy outcome.
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Free to download · Android & iOS · Book in under 2 minutes · mothrly.comFAQs — Feeling Cold in Early Pregnancy
I feel cold but my temperature is normal. Is that possible?
Yes. The sensation of feeling cold doesn’t always correlate with a fever or measurably low body temperature. Circulation changes, low blood pressure, and anaemia can all cause subjective coldness with a normal thermometer reading.
My feet are permanently cold in early pregnancy. Is this normal?
Cold extremities — particularly feet — are common due to vasodilation and redirected blood flow. Keep feet warm, elevate them occasionally, and ensure you’re not anaemic.
Should I be worried if I feel alternately hot and cold?
Temperature dysregulation — feeling hot one moment and cold the next — is normal in early pregnancy due to hormonal fluctuations. If it’s accompanied by fever, sweating episodes, or heart palpitations, see your doctor.
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