Morning sickness gets a bad rap for being the worst side effect of pregnancy. But as every mum-to-be knows, there’s another symptom that can impact our daily life just as much: fatigue.
Growing another human comes with an energy-zapping exhaustion that can make it difficult to get through the day. In early pregnancy, hormonal changes are to blame, while in late pregnancy we get tired because of the extra weight we’re carrying (…and resulting sleep problems).
It’s part and parcel of growing another human, but it sure makes life hard… especially if you’re working a full-time job or chasing after a toddler!
So how can you fight fatigue in pregnancy?
1. Do less
The easiest way to feel less tired during pregnancy is simply to do less. Cut back your hours at work, ask your partner to help out around the house, and if you’re caring for another youngster, now’s the time to start encouraging self-directed play. Scale commitments back to what’s absolutely necessary and forget everything else.
2. Rest when you can
Take every opportunity to rest and restore your energy levels. Go to bed earlier and nap when you can; even 15 - 20 minutes’ sleep can make a difference! If you’re finding it hard to sleep, lie on your side and place pillows under your belly and between your legs to support your body.
3. Eat a balanced diet
Fatigue can become worse when our nutritional needs aren’t being met. Make sure you’re eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains. If morning sickness is getting in the way of a balanced diet, a nutritional supplement like Oz Farm’s Pregnant Mother formula will give you all the vitamins and minerals you and your growing baby need.
4. (Moderate) exercise is your friend
Working out might be the last thing you feel like doing right now, but the right kind of exercise can actually make you feel more energised during pregnancy. Moderate activities like walking, swimming or pregnancy Pilates will improve your mood and help you get a more restful sleep at night.
5. Check your iron levels
Fatigue can sometimes be a symptom of anaemia (low iron levels), which is common in late pregnancy. If the above tips aren’t helping, see your doctor. A simple blood test will reveal if your ferritin levels low enough that you need to take an additional iron supplement.
When pregnancy fatigue gets you down, it can help to stop and think about the feat your body is performing; you’re growing another human, cell by cell, in just 280 days! Once your baby arrives you’ll have plenty to do, so take every opportunity to put your feet up and relax while you can.