Pregnancy is one of the most remarkable journeys you can experience. It’s full of excitement and anticipation, but it can also bring about significant physical and emotional challenges, especially in the third trimester. If you’re an expectant mother and find yourself grappling with overwhelming fatigue during this final stage of pregnancy, we’re here for you.
Here at Northeast Pediatric Associates PA, our pediatric team can help you understand the reasons behind this tiredness and explain how to manage it more effectively. We want you to experience a smooth transition to motherhood.
Three main culprits that may be contributing to your tiredness include:
A growing baby requires more nutrients and energy, which can leave you feeling depleted. The weight gain and expanding uterus can also cause discomfort and strain on your body, making simple activities more exhausting.
Your body’s cardiovascular system is also working harder to supply enough blood and oxygen to you and your child. Bearing such an increased workload can lead to your feeling exhausted.
In addition, your body produces more hormones, such as progesterone, which can have a sedative effect, contributing to feelings of tiredness.
As your pregnancy progresses, it can become challenging to find a comfortable sleeping position. Your larger belly, the frequent need to urinate, and discomfort from back pain or leg cramps can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep.
You might also experience anxiety and anticipation about the impending labor and childbirth, which can lead to restless nights. Many expectant mothers have vivid dreams and frequent awakenings, further disrupting their sleep patterns. The lack of restorative sleep at night often results in daytime fatigue and a persistent feeling of tiredness.
The anticipation of becoming a parent, concerns about the health of your baby, and the responsibility of caring for a newborn can cause stress and anxiety. These feelings can be mentally draining, leading to increased tiredness.
Your hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can affect your mood and energy, too, causing mood swings, irritability, and even prenatal depression, which can exacerbate feelings of fatigue.
Though it may be challenging to eliminate fatigue entirely, several strategies to manage it effectively include:
Prioritize rest and allow yourself to take naps during the day, if needed. Listen to your body, and avoid overexertion.
Maintain a nutritious diet rich in iron, protein, and essential vitamins to support your energy levels. Stay hydrated, too. Be sure to drink plenty of water.
Engage in gentle, regular exercise like walking or prenatal yoga to boost your energy and improve your sleep quality.
Establish a bedtime routine to promote better sleep. Use pillows to support your body and find a comfortable sleeping position.
Talk to your partner, friends, or a counselor about your feelings and concerns, or reach out to our pediatric team for emotional support as well.
Learning about the factors discussed here can help you manage your energy levels more effectively and make the final weeks of pregnancy more comfortable. As you get closer to your delivery date, continue to listen to your body, prioritize rest, and seek support when needed.
If you have questions or simply need support during your pregnancy, call now to book a consultation with our team at the location nearest. We have offices in San Antonio, North Central San Antonio, Schertz, and Castroville, Texas.
