Pregnancy has a habit of knocking the energy out of you.
Whilst some women experience a surge in energy levels during that second trimester period, others are simply wiped out through the entire nine months.
Whichever camp you fall into there are certainly going to be times during pregnancy when you feel absolutely exhausted.
There is usually nothing to worry about when it comes to tiredness in pregnancy.
It’s a totally normal symptom, especially in the first trimester.
But if you do feel worried about how tired you’re feeling you should have a chat with your doctor or midwife just to rule out any underlying causes, perhaps an iron deficiency or something similar.
Tiredness during those months when you’re growing a baby inside you is something that comes to every pregnant woman.
How hard it becomes depends upon the other responsibilities you have in your life, e.g. if you have other children, if you have a demanding job, if you’re a carer for an elderly parent, or if your partner is simply not very helpful!
Pregnancy in itself is tiring because not only do you have discomfort as pregnancy advances but you also have many potential symptoms disrupting your sleep.
Constant trips to pee, restless legs syndrome, or back pain can keep you awake at night.
Whatever your situation the good news is that there are many ways you try and grab back some energy and get some rest.
Remember one size doesn’t fit all so it could be that not all of our upcoming suggestions work for you – they’re worth a try though, right?
1. Fuel up on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Your diet is your number one source of energy regardless of whether you’re pregnant or not.
To that aim, fuel up on plenty of fruits and vegetables to give you a natural boost of energy.
Anything sugary or processed is just going to give you energy crashes and that could contribute to your overall tiredness.
Bananas are a great source of energy so munch away!
2. Don’t Go Too Long Without Eating
It stands to reason that you need to eat regularly, in order to keep your energy levels up. During that first trimester when your hormones are all over the place, you may notice your tiredness is particularly bad.
If you can eat often, in small amounts you will give your body a constant source of fuel without it becoming lacking in energy due to hunger.
3. Water is Your Friend
Water is fantastic for everything health-wise, but drinking a glass of water when you feel tired could be enough to perk you up.
Yes, you’re going to need to pee more, so perhaps don’t drink too much before bed, but throughout the day more water could be just what you need.
4. Make Yourself Comfortable at Night
There are a million different things which could potentially keep a pregnant woman awake at night, not least her own mind going over everything she needs to do before the impending arrival.
Regardless of why you’re not getting a good night’s sleep make sure you’re as comfortable as possible.
Wear loose clothing and try putting a pillow between your legs to give you extra support and comfort.
You are pregnant and you do not have to do it all.
Many women feel that they have to carry on ticking a million boxes every day during pregnancy, but give yourself a break!
We know you’re not ill, but come on, you’re doing something amazing in there and you need rest.
To that aim, share out the chores with those in your house.
If they moan about it, unleash the hormones!
6. Have Regular Pit-stops Throughout The Day
If you feel tired, there is nothing wrong with sitting and having a minute.
Rest whenever you can, and you will recharge your batteries.
If you continue to push yourself unnecessarily, you’re just going to feel ten times worse.
So, grab a nice cup of tea and you have permission to put those feet up for ten minutes.
If you need a quick power nap, go for it.
Not everyone feels that great after having a quick nap, but if you’re one of those people who find extra energy in a quick snooze, give it a try.
7. Try Gentle Exercise
Exercise is an energizer, so why not try some gentle stretches, or even go to a pregnancy yoga class on a regular basis?
This could help give you an extra boost of energy when you really need it, as well as helping you avoid putting on extra weight during your pregnancy.
8. Try Relaxation Techniques
Sometimes it’s not the actual tiredness that is exhausting you, it’s the fact you can’t sleep well at night.
Trying a few easy relaxation techniques could help you nod off much easier, and can also promote a better night’s sleep on a regular basis. These techniques are so easy anyone can do them.
Try a glass of warm milk, avoid watching TV or checking your phone/social media before bed, listen to chill out music, or even try meditating.
If you don’t know where to start with meditation, simply try breathing in for a count of five through your nose, hold it for five, and then breathe out through your mouth for five. Repeat this and see how chilled your body feels after a couple of minutes.
Sleep will come your way!
Tiredness is unfortunately part of the deal when it comes to pregnancy, and of course, after your little bundle of joy is born, it’s not likely to get any easier.
Despite all of that, there are plenty of ways you can learn to cope with it, reduce it, and manage your sleep pattern, so that you get the rest you need, and help you to continue as normal.
Sources:
1. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/tiredness-sleep-pregnant/
2. https://americanpregnancy.org/your-pregnancy/fatigue-during-pregnancy/
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6115730/