Fatigue in the Third Trimester

November 22, 2009

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Fatigue in the Third Trimester

by Lisa Rodriguez, R.N. and Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.
reviewed by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P.

Mid-pregnancy, most women find that their energy level is back to normal or even increased. But by the end of pregnancy, the strain of carrying the extra weight makes most women feel tired again by the end of the day. Many moms-to-be have trouble sleeping, or because of a parade of nighttime trips to the bathroom. Other women may not be able to sleep because their minds are constantly in motion thinking of things that need to be done to prepare for the new arrival. They also may be worried about the impending labor and delivery, or whether the baby will be healthy. Some women feel great right up until labor, while others already feel the strain by the sixth or seventh month. Women who have had many children often feel more fatigued. Whether this is due to the accumulated wear and tear wrought by prior pregnancies or the demands of family responsibilities isn't clear.

What can you do to feel more rested?

Eat healthful, nutritious meals.

Exercise regularly to help boost your energy level.

Try to have a moderate weight gain. The more weight you are carrying, the more tired you may be.

Get enough sleep when possible, and listen to your body when you need to rest.

At work, try to take short breaks and maybe find a quiet place where you can put up your feet and close your eyes for a few minutes. You could rest during your lunch break, but make sure you leave time enough to eat.

If you have other children, it can be hard to make time to rest. Try to lie down at the same time your other children are napping. If they don't nap, try telling them it is quiet time and Mommy needs to rest.

Do what you can to get enough sleep. Resting as much as you can now will help you endure the physical demands of labor and be at your best when the baby comes home.


RELATED INFORMATION

			Sleep Problems in Pregnancy
			The Developing Fetus, Weeks 25-40
			Third Trimester Experiences
			Fatigue During Pregnancy

Created January 17, 2001
Reviewed January 19, 2001

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