Overview

Most women struggle with feeling very tired when they are pregnant. This tiredness, or fatigue, is most common during the first and third trimesters.

During the first trimester, your developing baby (fetus) is growing quickly. Your body is producing higher levels of progesterone. This hormone has been linked to increased fatigue.

If you're like many women, you'll have more energy during most of your second trimester.

In the third trimester, your body is dealing with the physical demands of carrying a larger baby. And you may not sleep well. All of this can make you feel tired.

Caring for yourself when you're tired

During pregnancy, your body is doing a lot of hard work.

Try these tips when you feel tired.

• Take breaks.

  And take a short nap, if you need it.

• Cut back.

  Say "no" to any activities or responsibilities that you don't have to do. Give yourself permission to play the "pregnancy card." You and your baby come first.

• Exercise.

  A walk, some yoga, or a favourite workout can be a great energizer. But don't force it if your body really needs to rest.

• Fuel your body.

  Think salads, whole grain crackers, nuts, and yogurt. And wash them down with plenty of water.