MyChart
Fatigue During Pregnancy
Overview
Most women struggle with feeling very tired when they are pregnant. This tiredness, or fatigue, is most common during the first and third trimesters.
During the first trimester, your developing baby (fetus) is growing quickly. Your body is producing higher levels of progesterone. This hormone has been linked to increased fatigue.
If you're like many women, you'll have more energy during most of your second trimester.
In the third trimester, your body is dealing with the physical demands of carrying a larger baby. And you may not sleep well. All of this can make you feel tired.
Caring for yourself when you're tired
During pregnancy, your body is doing a lot of hard work.
Try these tips when you feel tired.
- Take breaks.
And take a short nap, if you need it.
- Cut back.
Say "no" to any activities or responsibilities that you don't have to do. Give yourself permission to play the "pregnancy card." You and your baby come first.
- Exercise.
A walk, some yoga, or a favorite workout can be a great energizer. But don't force it if your body really needs to rest.
- Fuel your body.
Think salads, whole-grain crackers, nuts, and yogurt. And wash them down with plenty of water.
Related Information
Credits
Current as of: February 23, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kirtly Jones MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Top of the page
Next Section:
Related Information
Previous Section:
Overview- Top of the page
Next Section:
Credits
Previous Section:
Related Information- Top of the page
Current as of: February 23, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kirtly Jones MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
