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Extreme fatigue during pregnancy – when exhaustion hits

Fatigue during pregnancy can hit you like a brick wall. The extreme tiredness where you can barely keep your eyes open is completely normal. Your body is working overtime to create a new little life, and this requires massive amounts of energy – both physically and mentally.

Especially in the first trimester, pregnancy fatigue can feel overwhelming, and even small tasks like emptying the dishwasher or getting dressed can suddenly feel like running a marathon.

Many women experience particularly intense fatigue during pregnancy weeks 7 and 8, when the body is adjusting to hormonal changes. This can also be a time when nausea and discomfort are at their worst, which further contributes to feelings of exhaustion.

Pregnancy symptoms – why do you get so tired?

For many women, pregnancy symptoms, especially fatigue, come as a major surprise. The tiredness can be more intense than you've ever experienced before – even long, sleepless nights feel less draining in comparison.

If you constantly feel tired and maybe even dizzy early in the day, you're definitely not alone. The body works hard during pregnancy, and it's completely natural to experience this type of fatigue.

Trying to ignore or fight against the fatigue can lead to frustration, stress, and negative energy. Instead, it's important that you listen to your body and give yourself space to rest. Many find that accepting the fatigue can actually reduce stress levels and increase feelings of well-being.

Good advice for pregnancy fatigue – helping your body get better sleep

To counteract fatigue during pregnancy and help your body achieve better sleep quality, you can massage your belly and legs with a magnesium-rich body cream such as EASE.

Magnesium has documented positive effects on both muscle relaxation and sleep quality. At the same time, the cream softens the skin and strengthens elasticity, which can reduce feelings of tight skin and stretch marks.

It's also important to create good sleep habits, such as going to bed early, avoiding screen time before bedtime, and ensuring your bedroom is cool and dark.

The combination of these habits and magnesium-rich body care can make a significant difference in your ability to relax and recharge your energy.

Hormonal changes – a cause of fatigue during pregnancy

A significant cause of fatigue during pregnancy is the hormonal changes your body undergoes. When fatigue sets in, your body is sending a clear signal that it needs rest. Pregnancy hormones progesterone and estrogen rise dramatically, and these changes can significantly affect your sleep rhythm, mood, and energy levels.

Make sure to take small breaks throughout the day, and if possible, a short nap in the middle of the day can work wonders. Allowing yourself brief rest periods during the day can help reduce overall feelings of fatigue and give you new energy to better handle the day.

How to manage the fatigue – prioritize yourself and your rest

While it may seem challenging to find time to rest, especially with busy work days or other children who need your attention, it's important that you prioritize yourself.

Set aside time for self-care, even if it's just a few minutes here and there to breathe deeply, drink a glass of water, or take a moment of peace. Remember to listen to your body, as fatigue during pregnancy is fortunately only temporary.

Fill your daily routine with plenty of sleep, regular fresh air, and lots of fluids. Short walks and light exercise can also help you maintain energy levels and increase feelings of well-being. When your energy returns, you'll feel stronger and ready for the next chapter in your pregnancy.

Forfatter

Cana Buttenschøn

Cana Buttenschøn graduated as a midwife in 2009 and has written several bestselling books about pregnancy, childbirth, and life as a new mother. Additionally, as the name suggests, Cana is the woman behind Cana Care.

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