How to Deal with Pregnancy Fatigue: When You're Tired of Being Tired

One of the most common complaints of pregnancy is fatigue. As your body works overtime, you will sometimes find yourself exhausted after even a routine day. Some women are surprised by the constant tired feeling that holds them tightly throughout pregnancy, but this is totally normal and no cause for alarm. Your body is serving as your baby's life-support system, supplying everything needed to develop a healthy child. Most of what your body is doing is unknown to you, with no symptoms except for the sheer exhaustion that leaves you falling asleep anytime you sit still. When pregnancy fatigue starts to take over, there are a few things you can do to feel better and keep your body moving at a functional pace.

First, keep your evenings free of unessential activities. Get off your feet and read, watch television, and relax. Enlist family members to help with the routine evening chores like washing dishes or doing laundry. Keep your to-do list to a minimum in the evening so you can take time to unwind and rest before bed.

Second, try to get a little more sleep at night. Skip the late night television and go to bed an hour earlier. Try to convince your husband to make breakfast in the mornings so you can sleep later. Every minute of sleep counts and you will be surprised at how a little extra sleep can add up to feeling better during the day.

If you are getting adequate sleep at night, but you still feel exhausted, it's time to check your diet. Pregnancy fatigue can be aggravated by iron-deficiency or lack of other essential nutrients. Try to eat more fruits and vegetables and avoid fueling up on sugary foods like candy bars. The sugar buzz never lasts long and eventually your blood sugar will plummet, leaving your more exhausted than before. Eat at regular intervals and make sure you have a well-rounded diet.

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to combat fatigue. While it seems like torture to go for a long walk when you're already tired, your body will respond with a nice little "high" from the endorphins released during exercise. If you spend all your time resting and no time exercising, you fatigue will be worse. Try to include some kind of exercise everyday, even if it just a slow walk around the block after dinner. Don't push yourself too hard and always stop before the exercise high dissolves into an achy low. Talk to your doctor about other exercises that are safe and appropriate during pregnancy.

Lastly, don't be afraid to let others baby you. Make sure your family is doing their fair share (or preferably more!) of the housework and errands. Pregnancy isn't the time to feel guilty about asking for help. Enlist a baby-sitter, indulge in a massage, or take a long afternoon nap. Make taking care of yourself a priority. If anyone has something smart to say, promptly remind them that by taking care of yourself, you are taking care of the baby.

No matter how overwhelmed or exhausted you may feel, there are some ways to unwind and enjoy your pregnancy. If extra sleep, good nutrition, and exercise don't make a reasonable difference in your energy level, talk to your doctor. Always let your medical care providers know about any issues that are bothering you during pregnancy, even if your only problem is that you are feeling tired. A quick trip to the doctor's office can ease your mind and help you sleep better at night anyway!