Why Can't I Breathe During Pregnancy?

Shortness of breath normally creeps up on the pregnant woman during mid to late pregnancy. During the last mont of pregnancy, your baby will drop, giving you some relief for the finish!

Your growing uterus takes up part of your breathing space, causing pressure on your diaphragm. This is why pregnant women experience shortness of breath as time goes on. If you need some relief, you can try some of these tips:

Hold your arms up over your head and stretch. This raises your rib cage and temporarily gives you more breathing space.

Find positions that give you more room to breathe. Sitting up in a straight chair may work. Try sleeping propped up with pillows in a position that makes breathing easier. If you are not comfortable propped up with pillows try lying on your left side instead. Experiment with different positions until you find one that works for you, but don't lie flat on your back.

Keep a good posture! Believe it or not, but having a good posture can help tremendously.

Practice very slow, deep breathing while you are relaxed. Try this every day. It will help you use your lung space to its greatest capacity.

When you become short of breath, you may find you just have to slow down. Don't race up the stairs, walk slowly. Don't exert yourself. Listen to you body!