Navigating Fatigue During Pregnancy

Navigating Fatigue During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is filled with excitement and anticipation, but it also brings about a myriad of physical and emotional changes. One of the most common challenges that many expecting patients face is fatigue. While fatigue during pregnancy is entirely normal, it can be overwhelming and impact your daily life. 

Understanding Pregnancy-Related Fatigue

Fatigue during pregnancy is a pervasive and often underestimated symptom that affects the majority of expectant patients, especially during the first and third trimesters. While every patient’s experience is unique, there are several factors that contribute to this overwhelming tiredness:

- Hormonal Changes: During pregnancy, your body experiences significant hormonal fluctuations, particularly an increase in progesterone levels, which can induce drowsiness and lethargy.

- Increased Metabolic Demands: Growing a tiny human is hard work! Your body is working overtime to support the developing fetus, which can leave you feeling drained and depleted of energy.

- Physical Discomfort: As your baby grows, you may experience physical discomfort such as back pain, frequent urination, or difficulty sleeping, all of which can contribute to feelings of exhaustion.

- Emotional Stress: The excitement, anticipation, and even anxiety surrounding pregnancy can take a toll on your emotional well-being, leading to fatigue.

Coping Strategies for Pregnancy-Related Fatigue

While it may be challenging to combat fatigue entirely, there are several strategies you can implement to manage and alleviate its impact on your daily life:

- Prioritize Rest: Listen to your body and give yourself permission to rest when needed. Take short naps during the day and aim for a full night's sleep by establishing a relaxing bedtime routine.

- Stay Active: While it may seem counterintuitive, engaging in regular, gentle exercise such as walking or prenatal yoga can boost energy levels and improve overall well-being.

- Eat Well: Fuel your body with nutrient-rich foods that provide sustained energy throughout the day. Aim for a balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate feelings of fatigue, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

- Delegate Tasks: Don't hesitate to ask for help from your partner, family members, or friends with household chores and responsibilities. Remember, it's okay to prioritize self-care.

- Manage Stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or prenatal massage into your daily routine to alleviate stress and promote relaxation.

- Connect with Others: Joining a prenatal support group or connecting with other expectant patients can provide a sense of camaraderie and support during this journey.

When to Seek Help

While fatigue is a common and expected symptom of pregnancy, there are instances where it may indicate an underlying health concern. If you experience severe or persistent fatigue accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or difficulty breathing, be sure to contact your provider or go to the nearest emergency room.

Author

Allison Bradley-Amore, DO, FACOOG Allison Bradley-Amore, D.O., F.A.C.O.O.G. is a Board-Certified OB-Gyn physician who joined Premier OB-Gyn in 2018. Dr. Bradley-Amore is originally from Groveland, Massachusetts, a small town north of Boston. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Davidson College in North Carolina and earned her Master of Science degree from Tufts University in Boston. She received her doctoral degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2014. She was elected Chief Resident of the University of Central Florida’s Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at Osceola Medical Center. She is a huge Disney fan and can be found exploring Walt Disney World during her time off.