Understanding Women’s Body Temperature: Why Some Women Feel Hot While Others Feel Cold

Body temperature is a fascinating physiological trait that varies not only between individuals but also between men and women. Women often report feeling perpetually cold or excessively hot, which can lead to significant differences in comfort levels, particularly in shared environments. Understanding these differences requires a closer look at the factors that influence body temperature in women, including hormones, metabolism, body composition, and circulation.

The Basics of Body Temperature

Normal body temperature typically averages around 98.6°F (37°C), but individual variations are common, ranging from 97°F to 99°F (36.1°C to 37.2°C). These variations depend on factors like the time of day, activity levels, and individual physiology. Women, however, experience additional fluctuations due to their unique hormonal cycles and body composition.

Why Some Women Feel Cold All the Time

1. Hormonal Influence

• Thyroid Function: The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, which directly impacts body temperature. Women are more prone to hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), leading to reduced metabolic heat production and persistent feelings of coldness.
• Estrogen: This hormone dilates blood vessels, promoting heat dissipation. During certain phases of the menstrual cycle or menopause, estrogen levels can drop, leading to poor heat regulation and feelings of chilliness.

2. Circulatory Differences

Women generally have lower blood flow to extremities (hands and feet) compared to men, which can make them feel colder even when their core body temperature is normal.

3. Lower Muscle Mass

Muscle generates more heat than fat due to its higher metabolic activity. Since women tend to have less muscle mass than men, they produce less heat and may feel colder in cooler environments.

4. Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

Women typically have a lower BMR than men, meaning their bodies burn fewer calories at rest. A lower BMR results in less heat production, contributing to a tendency to feel cold.

Why Some Women Feel Hot All the Time

1. Hormonal Changes

• Progesterone: In the second half of the menstrual cycle (the luteal phase), progesterone levels rise, increasing core body temperature by up to 1°F. This can make some women feel excessively warm.
• Menopause: Hot flashes and night sweats are hallmark symptoms of menopause, caused by fluctuating estrogen levels disrupting the body’s ability to regulate heat.

2. Hyperthyroidism

An overactive thyroid gland increases metabolic rate and heat production, making women feel hot regardless of external temperatures.

3. Body Composition

Women with higher levels of body fat may feel warmer because fat acts as insulation, trapping heat. This can make it harder to dissipate excess body heat during warmer conditions.

4. Autonomic Nervous System Sensitivity

Some women have a more sensitive autonomic nervous system, which can amplify feelings of heat or cold depending on environmental triggers.

Additional Factors Influencing Body Temperature

1. Age

• Young women may experience more temperature fluctuations due to active hormonal cycles.
• Postmenopausal women often feel warmer due to changes in thermoregulation associated with declining estrogen levels.

2. Lifestyle and Environment

• Clothing Choices: Women who dress warmly out of habit may acclimate to a cooler environment, making them more sensitive to heat.
• Stress Levels: Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, which can lead to sweating and feelings of warmth.

3. Illness or Medication

Certain medical conditions like anemia or Raynaud’s syndrome can make women feel colder, while conditions like fever, infections, or hyperthyroidism can make them feel hotter. Medications such as beta-blockers or hormone therapies also impact thermoregulation.

Managing Body Temperature Variations

For Women Who Feel Cold:

1. Layer Clothing: Opt for thermal layers and warm fabrics to trap heat.
2. Stay Active: Physical activity boosts circulation and heat production.
3. Eat Warm Meals: Foods like soups, teas, and spicy dishes can raise internal temperatures.
4. Check Thyroid Function: If cold sensitivity is persistent, consult a healthcare provider.

For Women Who Feel Hot:

1. Hydrate Regularly: Drinking cold water helps regulate body temperature.
2. Dress Lightly: Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics.
3. Use Cooling Devices: Fans, cooling pads, and air conditioning can help manage heat.
4. Monitor Hormonal Health: Speak to a doctor about managing menopause symptoms or other hormonal conditions.

The Science of Comfort

It’s important to recognize that “normal” body temperature and comfort levels vary widely among individuals. While some women feel cold due to slower metabolism or poor circulation, others may feel hot because of hormonal changes or a naturally high metabolic rate. Understanding these differences can foster better self-care and even help improve shared living or working environments.

Whether you’re a “cold person” or a “hot person,” listening to your body and making adjustments to support your unique physiology is key to staying comfortable and healthy.

READ MORE: Cooling Down Hot Flashes: Lifestyle and Dietary Tips for Relief

Sources:
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001982.htm
https://healthsurgeon.com/calculate/basal-metabolic-rate/
https://www.pfizer.com/news/articles/cold_wars_why_women_feel_the_chill_more
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8237993/