It is pretty hard to know what to expect during pregnancy, as every woman is different, and will have a different experience.
While every mum-to-be will have a different pregnancy, fatigue and tiredness seems to be a pretty common thing across the board.
In the first trimester the exhaustion isn’t simply feeling tired, it is an all-consuming tiredness that is almost debilitating.
The good news is that the extreme exhaustion and fatigue you are feeling so early on in your pregnancy should ease by your second trimester.
However, no matter how tired you are, remember that pregnancy is an amazing thing.
If you are in your first trimester and the exhaustion is getting the better of you, try some of these coping strategies:
1. Take a nap
Change your sleeping pattern by going to bed earlier than usual, and make it a habit to take a nap during the day if possible. Even a 15-minute power nap can make a difference, so if you work outside the home, find a quiet spot or empty room and have a snooze for a bit on your lunch break.
2. Keep an eye on your diet
A healthy diet made up of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, skim milk, and lean meats can be highly energising. Unhealthy food, by contrast, can actually hinder your energy levels. Snack on healthy foods, like fruit and yoghurt.
3. Stay active
If your doctor gives you the OK, make gentle exercise part of your daily routine. Getting at least 20 minutes of moderate activity daily, such as walking, can actually make you feel better. Also, try to take regular breaks throughout your day to stretch and breathe deeply.
4. Stay hydrated
Cut back on caffeine while in the first trimester, and make sure you drink plenty of water. If frequent urination is keeping you up at night, try cutting back your fluid intake a few hours before bedtime and make up for it during the day.
5. Enlist help
Pregnancy is the time to be self-indulgent, so be sure to get help when and where you need it. For example, have a housekeeper, friend or family member come in and help with the household chores. Get a healthy take-away or have your partner cook dinner. Ask your boss for extra assistance at work.