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Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 29 - Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath (dyspnea) tends to escalate as the third trimester progresses. During the first trimester, the uterus does not show prominently enough to cause any changes in breathing. Most expecting women experience breathlessness at the end of the second trimester.Breathlessness during pregnancy can often feel like;
- Not able to take a full, long breath
- Tightness in the chest
- Faster breathing while talking or walking
- Difficulty in breathing even while at rest
- Breathlessness when lying flat
Causes of Breathlessness During Pregnancy
Breathlessness during pregnancy does not occur for a single reason. It can happen for multiple reasons, including physiological, hormonal and even pathological factors.1. Uterine Expands and Pushes the Diaphragm
As the baby grows, the mother's uterus protrudes upward and presses against the diaphragm to accommodate the growing baby. By week 29, the uterus grows just below the ribcage. This pushes the diaphragm upward by 4 centimetres, reducing lung expansion. This compression causes breathlessness during pregnancy.2. Hormonal Changes
During pregnancy, progesterone and estrogen increase. Progesterone increases the respiratory drive, leading to hyperventilation (faster breathing during pregnancy). Estrogen supports progesterone and allows the rib cage to widen, leading to increased oxygen intake and quicker breathing.3. Cardiovascular changes
Pregnancy places greater demands on your cardiovascular system. At week 29, blood volume rises by almost 50% leading to 30% to 40% increase in cardiac activity. Your heart is busy pumping blood to deliver the oxygen and nutrients to the baby. Mother’s lungs also have to work together to support the oxygen transport. This may often lead to mild shortness of breath.4. Anaemia
A lack of iron leads to anaemia, which reduces oxygen transportation. During this time, any little work can feel more taxing, leading to shortness of breath. Adding optimal iron and folate supplements during pregnancy can help alleviate the risk of anaemia.What happens at week 29?
By week 29, the uterus has grown bigger, and the baby weighs almost 1.2 to 1.4 kilograms. The uterus occupies all of your abdomen and pushes the diaphragm upward, leading to lung compression.The mechanical displacement of organs and the increased metabolic rate are the other reasons behind breathlessness during pregnancy, especially at week 29. The stomach and intestines also shift upward, which can cause heartburn.
At week 29, you are already in your third trimester. The expectant mother needs to be cautious and prepare to welcome the baby. All this emotional stress can make breathing more taxing.
Coping Strategies
Feeling breathless during pregnancy is normal, but it can be uncomfortable and challenging. As there are no medical treatments for breathlessness, you can do home remedies to regulate your breathing.- Maintain correct posture. Sit upright to expand your chest muscles. Use an ergonomic chair to support the lower back and correct posture. Avoid slouching, as it can lead to lung restriction.
- Sleep on the left side to improve blood circulation. This also reduces diaphragmatic pressure and helps regulate breathing.
- Practice breathing technique. Slow, deep breathing techniques alleviate anxiety, calm your nervous system, and enhance oxygen exchange.
- Avoid an intense workout. Go for a light walk for overall health. Prenatal yoga, walking and swimming help the respiratory and cardiovascular systems work efficiently.
- Avoid wearing tight pants and tops. Opt for loose, comfortable clothes made from breathable, pregnancy-friendly fabric.
- Avoid hot tubs, spas, and saunas. Maintain the temperature around you. Stay in a well-ventilated space.
When is Shortness of Breath Abnormal
Breathlessness is completely normal during week 29. But breathlessness combined with other alarming signals is a red flag. Immediately call your doctor if you notice the following symptoms;- Sudden and severe breathlessness
- Severe chest tightening or palpitations
- Dizziness or fainting
- Bluish discolouration on the lips and fingers
- Sudden swelling in the face, hands and legs
- Sharp pain while breathing
As pregnancy progresses, the symptoms will be more prominent, and the uterus continues to grow upward, leading to more breathing discomfort. As a mother, you have to undergo an ocean of changes to nurture and deliver a happy and healthy baby. All the pregnancy symptoms you're experiencing right now are signs that the baby is growing well in the uterus.
During week 29, focus solely on soothing symptoms and maintaining adequate nutrition to support you and your baby. Being mindful about your posture, sleeping position, breathing, and optimal rest is all you need.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Feeling Short of Breath? Here's Why and How to Cope
- How to increase oxygen levels during pregnancy?
You can increase your oxygen level by;
-Prenatal exercise
-Wearing loose clothes
-Practising yoga
-Staying hydrated
-Prioritising nutrient-rich food - What sleeping position is best for oxygen?
Sleeping on the left side is best during pregnancy. This allows better blood circulation and reduces pressure on the diaphragm, leading to better breathing.
