Pregnancy Fatigue

Fatigue during pregnancy is very common. Some women may feel exhausted throughout their pregnancy, while some may hardly feel tired at all. One of the first signs of pregnancy is fatigue. Fatigue can begin in the very first weeks of pregnancy. It’s common to feel tired, or even exhausted, during pregnancy. Hormonal changes taking place in your body at this time can make you feel nauseous and emotional – affecting your body, mood, and sleep. Although experience with fatigue tends to vary, most women will feel more tired than usual during their pregnancy, and it is most common during the first trimester. It tends to go away during the second trimester, but will usually return in the third trimester.

What causes Pregnancy Fatigue?

It’s common to feel tired, or even exhausted, during pregnancy, especially in the first 12 weeks. Hormonal changes at this time can make you feel tired, nauseous, and emotional. The only answer is to rest as much as possible.

Causes of pregnancy fatigue for the first trimester:

• Building the placenta
• Your hormones
• Increased blood supply.
• Other physical changes

By the end of the first trimester, your body will have completed the enormous task that saps your body of energy on manufacturing the placenta and grown a bit more used to the hormonal and emotional changes that have occurred, which means the second trimester is usually a time of renewed energy levels.

During your second trimester, there is a good chance your energy level will increase and you will start to feel more like your old self. The second trimester is often called “The Happy Trimester.” Fatigue during pregnancy is still possible during the second trimester.

Causes of pregnancy fatigue for the third trimester:

• Your growing baby bump
• Pregnancy insomnia and other symptoms
• The stress of having a baby
• Multi-tasking

During the third trimester, you will most likely begin to feel tired again. At this point you will be carrying extra weight from the baby, maybe having trouble sleeping, and dealing with pregnancy demands. 

Coping tips for Pregnancy Fatigue

• Make sure you allow yourself to get enough bed rest during the times you feel fatigued
• Eat healthy meals and stay hydrated. Try to look after your physical health by eating a healthy diet, and doing some gentle exercise. Eating nutritious meals will go a long way toward supporting your energy levels. Make sure you get enough iron, protein, and calories. Fatigue can become worse if you are not getting the proper nutrients. Make sure you stay hydrated during your pregnancy.
• Take time to exercise, if you incorporate moderate activity, such as a 30-minute walk, this will actually make you feel more energized. Exercise is beneficial in pregnancy unless your healthcare provider has advised otherwise.

Pregnancy can be a tiring experience, both emotionally and physically. It’s important to remember. You are not alone. Know that all of these pregnancy conditions are manageable and treatable, but you need to keep the communication lines open with your doctor. 

Have a Happy, Healthy Pregnancy

Disclaimer

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.