Fatigue during pregnancy

Fatigue during pregnancy – Causes

The course of pregnancy varies from woman to woman. Some expectant mothers feel great for nine months, while others struggle with numerous complaints from the first weeks of pregnancy until birth. One of the symptoms most often mentioned by pregnant women is excessive fatigue and sleepiness. This is mainly due to hormonal fluctuations and, among other things, a physiological drop in blood pressure caused by the increased blood volume in the mother-to-be’s body. The more advanced the pregnancy, the greater the fatigue that may occur. This is due to the enlarged abdomen, which makes it difficult to breathe or move freely. Expectant mothers become tired more quickly, get shortness of breath and need more rest.

Ways to cope with fatigue in pregnancy

Fatigue is most often noticed by women at the beginning and towards the end of pregnancy. However, it can be so disturbing that expectant mothers look for home remedies to get rid of weakness and lack of energy. Getting enough sleep is very important during this time. Good sleep hygiene in the form of regular bedtimes, sleeping in a ventilated room and refraining from using devices like phones and tablets before bedtime is important.

And don’t forget to eat a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in vegetables and provides all the necessary nutrients. Adequate hydration is also important. In addition, moderate physical activity can have a positive effect on the fatigue that occurs during pregnancy. However, if home remedies do not help, it may be necessary to consult a doctor.

Fatigue in pregnancy – when to see the doctor?

Excessive fatigue and sluggishness may in some cases have more serious causes than physiological changes in the pregnant woman’s body. These symptoms may indicate a thyroid problem, be the result of vomiting in the first trimester of pregnancy, or indicate anemia. In such a situation it is necessary to consult a doctor. Thus, if fatigue complicates daily life and the expectant mother is worried, it is worth seeing a gynecologist who will order the appropriate tests to detect hypothyroidism, low hemoglobin or abnormal blood sugar levels. In most cases, the treatment applied is effective and the bothersome symptoms disappear. On the other hand, if fatigue is accompanied by symptoms such as negative thoughts or decreased self-esteem, it may be pregnancy depression. The symptoms should not be underestimated and it is therefore advisable to talk to a psychologist.