What Trimester Are You Most Tired During Pregnancy?

Extreme fatigue during pregnancy is not normal and may be a sign of an underlying health condition. See your doctor if your fatigue is:

• Persistent
• Severe 
• Lasts throughout the entire pregnancy

Causes of fatigue that may be of concern include: 

• Gestational diabetes
  • The body becomes resistant to insulin during pregnancy which may cause fatigue
  • Other symptoms of gestational diabetes include unusual thirst and frequent urination in large amounts
• Anemia
  • This is a low red blood cell count, which may occur after week 20 when blood volume increases and can deplete the body’s stores of iron
  • Other symptoms of anemia include weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness/fainting
• Thyroid problems
  • Having too little (hypothyroidism) or too much (hyperthyroidism) thyroid hormone can cause fatigue
  • Other symptoms of thyroid problems include sudden weight changes, temperature sensitivity, depression, and irritability
• Prenatal depression
  • Being more tired than normal for pregnancy can be a sign of prenatal depression
  • Other symptoms of prenatal depression include sadness, apathy, wanting to sleep all the time or not at all, wanting to eat all the time or not at all
  • If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, tell your doctor 
  • Depression during pregnancy can affect both the mother and her unborn baby
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Rarely, extreme fatigue during pregnancy can be a sign of chronic fatigue syndrome
  • This may be linked to a serious form of morning sickness known as hyperemesis gravidarum

All of these causes of fatigue during pregnancy can be managed and treated, so talk to your doctor if you experience any symptoms that concern you.

There are several home remedies to help relieve fatigue during pregnancy. However, a pregnant woman’s body is busy growing another human being, so it may not be possible to eliminate fatigue. 

• Get adequate rest
  • Go to sleep earlier
  • Take naps when possible
  • Drink less in the evening to reduce waking to urinate during the night
• Stay hydrated (just don’t drink too much too close to bedtime)
• Get proper nutrition
  • Make sure you consume enough calories, protein, and iron during pregnancy
• Change your schedule
  • Whenever possible, cut back on responsibilities 
  • Ask family and friends for help with errands or housework
• Exercise regularly 
  • Moderate exercise such as walking and swimming can help energize you
  • Aim for at least 20 to 30 minutes, three times per week
• Practice relaxation techniques
  • Yoga
  • Stretching 
  • Deep breathing
  • Progressive muscle relaxation
  • Guided imagery 
  • Get a massage