Tackling that all-consuming pregnancy tiredness
Pregnancy tiredness can take over, try these tips to help
There’s normal tired, and then there’s pregnancy tired – the type of tired that when the think of sleep it makes you swoon with delight.
Thanks to the immense hormonal changes you’re going through, it’s perfectly normal to feel tired during pregnancy, especially in the first 12 weeks. You may feel pretty emotional and nauseous too. It's important to keep hydrated as dehydration can add to your feeling of tiredness.
Tiredness tends to ease off in the second trimester, then creeps back in again when your bump grows and you get heavier. Feeling tired won't harm you or your baby, but it’s not much fun, so the best thing is to rest whenever you can and look after yourself by eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of sleep.
Get help
Many mums-to-be find the first trimester the hardest bit, because you might feel wiped out, but you don’t really look pregnant so people forget what you’re going through – even your partner. Chances are you haven’t even told everybody yet and are putting on a brave face at work. If this all sounds familiar, keep talking to your partner so they know how you feel, and ask for help. You are, after all, growing a human being, and deserve to rest! It's always a good idea to mention how you're feeling to your midwife as she may want to check your iron levels.
Bump-friendly sleep positions
It’s not easy getting comfortable when you’re pregnant, but bump-friendly sleep positions can make all the difference. Try sleeping on your side, and tucking pillows between your legs and behind your back for extra comfort.
Dodge insomnia
If you’re struggling to sleep at night, there’s a lot you can do to ward off insomnia :
• avoid tea, coffee or cola drinks in the evening so caffeine isn’t keeping you awake
• find ways of relaxing before bedtime so you’re winding down slowly
• take light exercise during the day