top of page

Managing Fatigue During Pregnancy And Ways To Cope With Pregnancy Fatigue

Pregnancy is an amazing time in a woman’s life, but it can also be exhausting. Fatigue is a common symptom during pregnancy, and it can be difficult to manage. There are some things you can do to help cope with pregnancy fatigue. Through conscious reflection and check-ins with your body you can along with help from your pregnancy and birth team you can help lower the effects that fatigue may have on you and keep your energy .

pregnant woman holding belly.jpg

What Causes Fatigue During Early Pregnancy

Around 80% of women experience fatigue during early pregnancy or the first trimester. It's one of the most common and earliest symptoms of pregnancy and can make you feel completely tapped out. Fatigue is caused by the body producing more hormones, such as progesterone and estrogen. This can lead to increased feelings of tiredness and lethargy. Other common causes of fatigue during early pregnancy are an increase in blood volume, changes in metabolism, increased stress levels, and changes in sleeping patterns due to nausea or frequent urination.

 

There are several ways to manage fatigue during early pregnancy. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables can help provide a steady source of energy throughout the day. Regular exercise can also help reduce fatigue by increasing circulation and providing an outlet for stress. Additionally, taking regular breaks throughout the day to rest can help conserve energy as well as getting plenty of sleep at night. It's important to talk to your doctor if your fatigue persists or prevents you from doing daily activities. Fatigue is different from the tiredness you feel after a long day or a poor night's sleep. It's a deep exhaustion that can be debilitating. The causes of fatigue during early pregnancy are largely unknown, but there are some theories. One theory is that it's caused by rapidly changing hormone levels.

 

Fatigue during early pregnancy is normal and is thought to be caused by the hormone changes that occur during this time. Fatigue can also be caused by other factors such as anemia, dehydration, and morning sickness. While fatigue is a common symptom during early pregnancy, it is important to listen to your body and get plenty of rest. If you are feeling especially tired, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider.

woman carrying baby.jpg

Extreme Fatigue and Pregnancy Exhaustion

We've all been there. That moment when you can't keep your eyes open, no matter how hard you try. When even a nap seems impossible. You may be surprised to know that this feeling isn't just caused by a lack of sleep. If you're pregnant, you may be experiencing extreme fatigue or pregnancy exhaustion. 

 

During pregnancy, your body goes through a lot of changes causing you to feel more tired. Hormonal changes can cause fatigue, as can blood sugar fluctuations. And, of course, producing more red blood cells can also lead to fatigue as your body continues growing a baby. Hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and cortisol can all contribute to fatigue. Additionally, physical changes like increased weight gain can lead to fatigue due to the extra strain on muscles and joints. Stress levels can also be a factor in causing fatigue as well as lifestyle choices such as lack of exercise, poor diet or inadequate sleep. Finally, certain medications or supplements may also cause changes in energy levels that lead to fatigue.

 

If you're feeling exhausted, it's important to listen to your body, adjust your schedule, and get rest when you can. Drink plenty of fluids, eat healthy foods and meals throughout the day to regulate your blood sugar and energy levels, and avoid caffeine.

Does Fatigue During Pregnancy Mean There's A Bigger Problem?

Pregnancy is a beautiful, yet tiring experience. Most pregnant women feel the exhaustion and fatigue that comes with growing a baby during the first trimester - and it’s totally normal. However, if you feel like your fatigue during pregnancy might be more than just regular tiredness, it’s important to take a closer look at what could be going on.

 

There are several medical conditions that can cause excessive tiredness during pregnancy, including;

  • Anemia which  is caused by low iron levels in the body and can cause extreme exhaustion and weakness as well as shortness of breath and dizziness.

  • Prenatal depression can manifest itself with feelings of fatigue in addition to difficulty concentrating, restlessness and other mood changes.

  • Gestational diabetes occurs when pregnant women develop high blood sugar levels due to their changing hormone levels and if left untreated can cause extreme tiredness.

  • Thyroid problems can present with symptoms include excessive exhaustion, weight gain or loss, mood swings and more severe complications.

 

If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms - especially extreme exhaustion - speak with your physician right away to determine if there might be an issue with your health during pregnancy. Early diagnosis and treatment is key in helping ensure both yours and your child’s health!

Mother holding childs hand.jpg

How To Cope With Pregnancy Fatigue

Pregnancy fatigue is one of the most common complaints during pregnancy. Feeling exhausted all the time is normal, but it can be difficult to cope with. Here are some tips for dealing with pregnancy fatigue:

 

  1. Ensure your spine and nervous system are functioning optimally through the Webster Technique. It is essential for proper pelvic alignment during pregnancy to maintain the health of both the mother and baby and may boost your energy. The Webster technique is a specific chiropractic adjustment that can help to restore balance in the pregnant woman's pelvis. When the pelvis is properly aligned, the body won't have to use as much energy to keep you stable.

  2. Get plenty of rest. Going to bed earlier can help you get the sleep you need. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to get as much sleep as you can. Pregnancy can be overwhelming, and your body needs all the rest it can get.

  3. Eat a healthy diet. Eating nutritious foods will give you energy and help your body cope with fatigue. Eating nutritious foods will help give you energy and keep your body strong during pregnancy. Avoid sugary snacks and processed foods, and focus on eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein-rich foods.

  4. Get some exercise. A moderate amount of exercise can actually help reduce fatigue by increasing circulation and improving energy levels.

  5. Drink plenty of fluids. It’s important to stay hydrated during pregnancy, so make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Prenatal Chiropractic Care
At Base Camp Health
To Assist With Fatigue During Pregnancy

Taking steps to ensure your body is functioning at it's best during pregnancy is a must. If your body is spending extra energy to stabilize itself due to imbalances in the body, your likely to experience fatigue. This spent energy can continue to compound until you feel exhausted even when you wake up in the morning. At Base Camp Health, we specialize in working with pregnant individuals to help them feel their best by utilizing a prenatal chiropractic form of adjusting called the Webster Technique. 

​

The Webster Technique helps to balance the muscles, ligaments, and joints of the pelvis to help balance your body during pregnancy. When the body is balanced you'll be more at ease and in turn, feeling more energized throughout the day. 

​

bottom of page