How to combat fatigue in early pregnancy?
Pregnancy brings with it numerous challenges owing to the physical, emotional and hormonal changes that it triggers. Fatigue can make pregnancy a really trying period. The increase in the production of hormones is one of the major causes of fatigue in early pregnancy. It is also responsible for nausea, vomiting, cravings, aversions, headaches and mood swings that are experienced during pregnancy. These symptoms collectively also add to the exhaustion experienced during pregnancy. Fatigue in early pregnancy is also attributed to the fact that the body is still adjusting to being pregnant. An inability to sleep soundly due to the hormonal changes and frequent urge to urinate are other causes of fatigue in early pregnancy.
Fatigue during pregnancy is mainly experienced in the first trimester and towards the latter part of the third trimester. During early pregnancy, many women are known to find it extremely difficult to carry out their daily routine efficiently as a result of fatigue. At times, keeping their eyes open has been a major task. In the third trimester, as the pregnancy progresses and the baby becomes bigger and heavier, fatigue sets in again as a result of the weight. The expanding uterus exerts pressure on the bladder and also makes balancing the body difficult. Insomnia, leg cramps, backaches and frequent urination contribute to tiredness during pregnancy.
There are a number of easy to follow ways to combat fatigue in early pregnancy. The first step in fighting fatigue is to get plenty of rest. Catching a nap whenever possible and going to bed early are good methods of ensuring that your body gets all the rest that it deserves. Since frequent visits to the toilet hamper a good night’s rest, ensure that you drink your last glass of water or juice at least an hour and a half before bedtime. Emptying out your bladder completely, by tilting forward while urinating, may prove beneficial in minimizing visits to the toilet during the night. Hunger pangs and indigestion are two other common causes of disturbed rest. Keep a fruit at hand in order to deal with sudden hunger pangs. Fruits also serve as a source of instant energy. In order to prevent indigestion opt for small, easy to digest meals, spread throughout the course of the day. A wholesome diet and regular exercise also provide energy to cope with the strain of pregnancy. Stress, overexertion and caffeine should be avoided as they increase fatigue and hamper the ability to rest peacefully.
Submitted by J on December 3, 2010 at 01:17
