Tiredness and exhaustion in pregnancy: why it hits and what helps

Feeling drained is one of the first and most common signs of pregnancy. Here’s why it happens and what can help.

Why am I so tired?

The NHS says hormonal changes early in pregnancy can leave you feeling tired, nauseous and emotional, and that later the extra weight you’re carrying can make you tired too. A growing bump can also make it harder to sleep well.

What can help

Rest as much as you can, and sit with your feet up during the day.
Accept offers of help from people around you.
Eat a healthy diet and get plenty of sleep.
Stay active. Walking or swimming can help even when you feel tired.
Avoid tea, coffee or cola in the evening.

See trouble sleeping in pregnancy for sleep tips.

The NHS says feeling tired will not harm you or your baby.

Could it be low iron?

Tiredness is common in pregnancy, but it can also be a symptom of iron deficiency anaemia, along with shortness of breath. Your blood is checked for anaemia in pregnancy; see anaemia and iron tests in pregnancy. Tell your midwife or GP if you feel exhausted, or breathless on little effort, rather than putting it down to pregnancy. The NHS says shortness of breath in pregnancy needs to be checked immediately.

When to talk to someone

If you’re worn out and also feeling hopeless or have lost interest in things you used to enjoy, tell your midwife or GP. See anxiety, low mood and loneliness in pregnancy.

Questions people ask

When does the first-trimester tiredness ease?

The NHS says tiredness is especially common in the first 12 weeks. It varies from person to person, and the extra weight you carry later on can make you tired again.

Will it come back?

Many people feel tired again later in pregnancy, because of the extra weight, according to the NHS.