A Family Approach to Photos
Your Photo Albums:

Edit Albums
Upload New Pictures
Pregnancy - from 1 week to 14 weeks pregnant


 Get Weekly Updates on your Child E-Mailed to You
Complete Privacy - Your information will be used by edHelperBaby only and will never be shared with another company.

  Enter your E-MAIL ADDRESS:  
    

Fatigue During Pregnancy

By Rachel Lacourciere, edHelperBaby

  Why Am I So Tired At The Beginning Of My Pregnancy?
           A common early sign of pregnancy, fatigue affects many women not only during their first trimester but throughout their pregnancy.  This increased tiredness is due to the extra energy required for the developing baby.  Additionally, the body produces sleep-inducing hormones (specifically progesterone), thereby letting the mother know she needs to take it easy while her body works on "growing" her baby.

 		   

  What Can I Do To Feel More Energized?
           The following are a few suggestions on how to feel more energized during pregnancy:
  • Getting more rest, either at night or by taking naps during the day, is often the best solution.  If napping during the day is possible, 45 minutes is usually enough to feel energized and ready to move on with the rest of the day.
  • Keeping to a regular exercise routine under the direction of a doctor or midwife can help increase a pregnant woman's energy level.
  • Eating small meals several times a day can help keep up a consistent blood sugar level, whereas dips in blood sugar lead to energy drops.  This approach can also help alleviate any morning sickness a pregnant woman may be experiencing.

 		   

  Can Fatigue Become A Problem I Need To Notify My Doctor About?
           A pregnant woman should notify her doctor of her excessive fatigue as it could be a sign of anemia.  Anemia is a common condition where the body is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood due to low amounts of iron found in the hemoglobin.  It can develop during pregnancy if a woman is not maintaining an adequate level of iron in her diet as her blood supply increases to meet the demands of her baby.  Over time if anemia remains undiagnosed, it can lead to organ damage for the mother and in very severe cases lead to death.  Anemia is diagnosed from the results of a simple blood test.       

       Take the time to talk to your regular prenatal doctor about any additional questions or concerns you may have about being fatigued during your pregnancy.

 		   

Ask Your Own Question
    

Ask a Question

Give a Suggestion     Contact edHelperBaby
Note: All information on edHelperBaby is of a general nature for educational purposes only.
For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
Your use of this site indicates your agreement to be bound by the Terms of Use.