When should I worry about pregnancy tiredness?

You should contact your doctor if fatigue is severe, sudden, or comes with other symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, or fainting.

Are certain medical conditions linked to pregnancy fatigue?

Yes, conditions like anaemia, thyroid problems, or infections can make tiredness worse during pregnancy.

Why You're So Tired in Pregnancy (and Why It's Normal)

Pregnancy can make you feel way more tired than you expected. Things that used to be easy might suddenly feel like a lot, and even small chores can feel tougher than usual. You probably find yourself wanting naps in the middle of the day or struggling to get through your normal routine.

Right now, your body is doing a ton of work. Your hormones are changing and your body is focused on supporting your growing baby. All of this naturally uses a lot of energy, so it’s normal to feel drained even after a full night's rest. Understanding why you feel this way can help you approach your days with a bit more patience and self-care!

Why Does Pregnancy Make You So Tired?

Your body goes through massive changes during pregnancy, and these changes can zap your energy.

These are the reasons why you are feeling so drained:

Hormonal Changes

In early pregnancy, your progesterone levels shoot up. This hormone helps your pregnancy progress but also makes you feel sleepy and low on energy.

Building the Placenta

Your body is busy creating the placenta in the first trimester, which will feed and support your baby. It’s a big task that uses up a lot of your strength.

Increased Blood Production

You’re making extra blood to support your baby, and that puts more work on your heart and blood vessels. It’s normal to feel a bit weak or dizzy.

Lower Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure

These can drop during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. As a result, you may feel tired or lightheaded.

Sleep Disruptions

Between bathroom trips, discomfort, and your baby moving, a full night’s rest can be hard to get.

Emotional Stress

Feeling excited, anxious, or even overwhelmed can drain your mental energy too.

When Does Tiredness Happen During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy fatigue doesn’t hit the same way throughout your entire pregnancy. It tends to come and go depending on the stage you’re in.

Here’s a breakdown:

First Trimester (Weeks 1–12)

This is when extreme tiredness in early pregnancy often hits hardest. Your hormones are surging, your body is working hard to build the placenta, and your energy is going into supporting your baby’s early growth.

All of that can leave you feeling completely drained, sometimes as early as the first week after conception. You might find yourself dozing off during the day or feel mentally foggy.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13–27)

The second trimester is often called the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy, and for good reason. Your hormones start to stabilise, and your body gets used to all the changes.

Many people notice their energy coming back, and that constant fatigue during pregnancy finally eases up. But if you’re carrying twins or have a busy routine, you might still feel worn out.

Third Trimester (Weeks 28–40)

Pregnancy tiredness often returns as your baby grows bigger. The extra weight can make even simple things feel more tiring, and getting comfortable at night becomes harder. You might struggle with heartburn, backaches, or restless legs syndrome, all of which can make sleep challenging. About 60 per cent of individuals feel fatigued again during this stage.

How Does Tiredness Feel During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy fatigue is a deeper sense of exhaustion. You might notice that you:

Can’t seem to get out of bed in the morning, even after a full night’s sleep.
Feel sluggish and like you’re dragging yourself through the day.
Struggle to focus or feel a bit forgetful.
Constantly crave naps or just want to go to bed as soon as you get home.

How Can I Manage Pregnancy Tiredness?

Feeling tired doesn’t have to take over your pregnancy.

These are some simple ways to boost your energy and get better rest:

Rest when you can: Take naps and go to bed earlier. If you have other children, ask for help with chores or childcare.
Eat a healthy diet: Focus on nutrient-rich foods like lean proteins, whole grains, and iron-rich foods.
Stay hydrated: Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily. Dehydration can make fatigue worse, so keep a water bottle handy.
Gentle exercise: Walking, prenatal yoga, or swimming can improve circulation and release endorphins. Exercise late in the day (not right before bed) to help with sleep.
Improve your sleep: Sleep on your side after 28 weeks, and use pillows for support between your knees, behind your back, or under your tummy.
Manage stress: Try deep breathing, meditation, journaling, or reading before bed to relax and ease mental fatigue.
Prenatal vitamins: Make sure your vitamin has iron, B vitamins, and folic acid to support energy.
Acupuncture: Some people find it helps with fatigue and nausea, but check with your doctor first to make sure it’s safe for you.

Feeling tired during pregnancy is totally normal, especially in the first and third trimesters. Your body is working hard to grow a baby, and that takes a lot of energy. If you’re feeling worn out, don’t be afraid to ask your partner, family, or friends for a little extra help.

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 Why You're So Tired in Pregnancy (and Why It's Normal)

When should I worry about pregnancy tiredness?
You should contact your doctor if fatigue is severe, sudden, or comes with other symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, or fainting.
Are certain medical conditions linked to pregnancy fatigue?
Yes, conditions like anaemia, thyroid problems, or infections can make tiredness worse during pregnancy.