During your first trimester, you may feel more tired than usual as your body adjusts to the fluctuating hormones of early pregnancy. Thankfully, with the second trimester comes a boost of energy; pregnancy symptoms decrease and you may get a bit of a reprieve from morning sickness and those feelings of perpetual exhaustion experienced during the first weeks of pregnancy.
Unfortunately, the excitement of being that much closer to meeting your baby could be hampered a bit in the third trimester by an all-encompassing sense of fatigue as your body fully adjusts and prepares for childbirth. Here are some ways to make the third trimester as comfortable as possible as you prepare for delivery.
How to combat third-trimester fatigue
Third trimester: Exercise to boost energy
Although it might seem counterintuitive, daily exercise can help increase energy during late pregnancy. You’ll tire more easily than you did earlier in your pregnancy, so stick with mild exercise such as walking, yoga, or swimming, and aim for 30 minutes a day.
A small-scale, Japan-based study published in The Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research found that pregnant women in their third trimester who practice yoga for one hour each week reported sleeping longer with fewer wakings than the control group of women who did not include yoga practice in their weekly routine. Yoga, pilates, and swimming are great options for those in their third trimester, as long as you have clearance from your healthcare provider and don’t overdo the exercise sessions.
Keep in mind that in some cases, extreme fatigue could be a symptom of something more serious, like gestational diabetes, anemia, or thyroid issues, so be sure to stay on top of prenatal appointments, and speak to your doctor if you have any concerns about your health.
