Understanding Pregnancy Fatigue.
Pregnancy fatigue is one of the most common symptoms, and it’s not just “feeling tired.” Many expecting mothers experience exhaustion that can feel overwhelming, especially in the first and third trimesters. But what causes this deep fatigue?
Early in pregnancy, a surge in hormones, particularly progesterone, acts like a natural sedative, making you feel drowsy. Progesterone helps prepare your body for pregnancy, but it also slows down bodily functions, which can make you feel unusually tired.
Your body is now working for two! Blood volume increases significantly during pregnancy to support the growing baby. This means your heart and other organs are working extra hard, which can leave you feeling drained.
Pregnancy changes your body’s metabolism, requiring more energy even at rest. The body has to fuel not only your own needs but also your developing baby’s, leading to a natural dip in energy reserves.
Adjusting to the idea of motherhood, combined with physical symptoms like nausea or morning sickness, can take an emotional and physical toll. Anxiety, excitement, and uncertainty all play a role in draining energy.
As the baby grows, it may get harder to find a comfortable sleeping position. Pregnancy-related aches, frequent bathroom trips, and hormonal shifts can make restful sleep challenging, leading to greater fatigue during the day.
Embracing these changes as part of the journey can make it easier to manage fatigue. Remember, this exhaustion is part of the body’s way of nurturing new life. Taking time to rest, eat well, and stay active can help ease the tiredness and support both you and your baby’s health.