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If you're experiencing shortness of breath during pregnancy, don't worry, it's normal to feel winded. According to research, up to 70% of pregnant women may experience shortness of breath, also known as dyspnoea, during the nine months or more of their pregnancy.
Does Shortness Of Breath Indicate The Possibility Of Pregnancy?
According to experts, shortness of breath is unlikely to be an . Rarely would this be the first indication that someone was pregnant.When Does Shortness Of Breath Start During Pregnancy?
Each person and pregnancy is unique, and shortness of breath can occur at any time during pregnancy, as early as the first trimester. However, for the majority of pregnant women, shortness of breath occurs later in the journey. It usually begins in the third trimester, when the baby is growing rapidly and pushing the lung up into the chest cavity.First trimester
A foetus does not have to be very big to induce breathing problems in a pregnant woman. Your oxygen intake starts to increase throughout the first trimester, which lasts about week 14.During the first trimester of pregnancy, the diaphragm, a muscular strip of tissue that separates the heart and lungs from the abdomen, expands up to 4 centimetres.The diaphragm's action helps the lungs fill with air. While some individuals may be unaware of changes in their breathing capacity, others may find that they are unable to take complete, deep breaths.In addition to changes in the diaphragm, pregnant women often breathe quicker owing to an increase in the hormones progesterone and oestrogen, both of which are crucial for foetal development. Progesterone is also a respiratory stimulant, which means it encourages you to breathe faster.The level of progesterone in your body increases during pregnancy. While breathing quickly, you may not always feel shortness of breath, however, some people may feel the differences in their breathing habits.Second trimester
Many pregnant women may suffer more intense shortness of breath in the second trimester, which lasts until around week 28. In a 1970s research, 31% of the 62 healthy pregnant women had shortness of breath by week 19.Shortness of breath during the second trimester is often caused by the expanding uterus. However, certain changes in how the heart works may also produce dyspnoea.During pregnancy, your blood volume grows dramatically. The heart must work harder to circulate this blood throughout the body and to the placenta.The increased stress on the heart might cause you to feel short of breath.Third trimester
During the third trimester, which starts around week 29, breathing may become easier or more difficult, depending mostly on the position of the growing baby's head.Before the baby begins to turn and descend further into the pelvis, the baby's head may feel like it is beneath a rib and pushing on the diaphragm, making it even more difficult to breathe.According to some research, this sort of shortness of breath often develops between weeks 31 and 34. Shortness of breath may sometimes be associated with a persistent, dry cough.What Causes Shortness Of Breath During Pregnancy?
There are several factors that can contribute to shortness of breath during pregnancy. Earlier in pregnancy, it's most likely due to hormonal changes, particularly an increase in progesterone.However, as your pregnancy progresses, the baby's size can have an impact on your breathing. The baby and your uterus can push up against your diaphragm (a major muscle that aids in breathing), making it difficult to breathe normally.Additional causes
If you are suffering from significant shortness of breath, you should see a doctor immediately.While pregnancy changes might cause some breathlessness, other medical issues can exacerbate the problem. This includes:- Asthma: Pregnancy may exacerbate existing asthma symptoms. People with asthma should consult their doctor about safe pregnancy treatments, such as inhalers or medicines.
- Peripartum Cardiomyopathy: Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a kind of heart failure that may develop during pregnancy or shortly after childbirth. Symptoms include ankle oedema, low blood pressure, tiredness, and palpitations. Many individuals mistake their symptoms for pregnancy, although the disease may have major health consequences and often needs treatment.
- Pulmonary Embolism: A pulmonary embolism occurs when there is a blood clot in an artery in the lungs. An embolism may significantly impair breathing, resulting in coughing, chest discomfort, and shortness of breath.
How To Relieve Shortness Of Breath During Pregnancy?
If you are experiencing sudden shortness of breath during pregnancy and it is a new experience for you, contact your healthcare provider. However, there are a few things you can do to get relief if you're feeling more winded than usual:- Slow your pace: Moving at a slower pace during pregnancy can help your body catch up, allowing you to breathe more comfortably
- Rest: If you're out of breath while doing something, such as climbing a long flight of stairs, take a break and rest
- Stand up straight: Standing or sitting up straight allows your lungs to expand more when you breathe
- When sleeping, prop yourself up: Placing pillows under your upper body while sleeping can help relieve the pressure your uterus puts on your lungs
When To Worry About Shortness Of Breath During Pregnancy?
Shortness of breath is common during pregnancy, but it can be a sign of a more serious health issue, including:- Pulmonary embolism
- Preeclampsia
- Asthma
- Anaemia
When to Contact a Doctor
While many individuals feel shortness of breath during pregnancy, certain symptoms need treatment.You should seek emergency medical attention for the following symptoms:- Blue lips, fingers, or toes
- Symptoms may include heart palpitations
- Discomfort when breathing
- Acute shortness of breath
- Wheezing
Shortness Of Breath After Delivery
Shortness of breath often resolves on its own following birth.If it does not, or if you have shortness of breath after giving birth that you did not have throughout the pregnancy, this might indicate a postpartum issue, such as a heart disease.You should get medical help as quickly as feasible.If you experience shortness of breath during your pregnancy and it bothers you, speak with your doctor. While this is a common occurrence, your provider will most likely want to assess you to ensure there isn't an underlying health problem. They should also be able to provide personalised tips to make you feel more at ease.FAQs on What to Do About Shortness of Breath During Pregnancy?
- Is it common to feel as if you cannot breathe when pregnant?People who are pregnant often experience shortness of breath. It may start in the first trimester and worsen over time as the foetus puts more strain on the diaphragm and hormones shift.
- Can a pregnant woman do breathing exercises?Breathing exercises during pregnancy may raise your blood oxygen levels, assisting in the continuous flow of oxygenated blood to the baby.