How to Combat Pregnancy Fatigue
The first and third trimesters of pregnancy can really zap your energy – recoup your strength by following these sensible steps.
Up next in How to Have a Healthy Pregnancy (21 videos)
Find out what you can do to have a healthy pregnancy -- and a healthy baby -- with the advice in this Howcast video series.
You Will Need
- Rest
- Help around the house
- Light exercise
- Fruits and vegetables
- High-energy foods
- Water
- Aromatherapy oils
- Vitamin supplements (optional)
- Fruit drinks (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Get enough rest
Go to sleep early in the evening and squeeze in a catnap during the day, even if it's during your lunch break.
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Step 2
Reduce activities
Hire someone to help with household chores or ask a family member for help. Cut back on social and work commitments.
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Step 3
Engage in light exercise
Incorporate light exercise into your day to invigorate yourself and boost circulation. Walk, swim, or do yoga, activities which are beneficial for pregnant women.
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Step 4
Follow a healthy diet
Consume lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, and other high-energy foods such as whole-grain pasta. Drink plenty of water daily.
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Progesterone levels soar during early pregnancy. Ask your doctor about supplemental vitamins you can try if your energy is especially low.
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Step 5
Avoid stimulants and sugar
Do not drink caffeinated beverages or consume energy-enhancing drugs to try to stay alert. Reduce fatty, sugary, and refined foods, which cause energy levels to peak and crash.
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Replace caffeinated drinks with freshly mixed fruit smoothies, which are wholesome ways to get an energy boost.
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Step 6
Breathe energizing aromas
Use pure aromatherapy oils such as litsea cubeba, grapefruit, and mandarin oil to increase energy and help you rest more easily at night.
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One in 10 babies are born to women over 35, and most are delivered without complications.
