Fatigue During Pregnancy
by Bradley G. Goldberg, M.D.2 Comments
Q: I'm Almost 12 weeks and I stay so tired its unbearable. I don't have any energy to do anything. What can I do to change this?
A: Fatigue is a very common complaint in early pregnancy.
Most of the time there is no harmful pathology behind this symptom, and it will usually improve by the 4th or 5th month of pregnancy.
However, if the symptoms are severe enough to be distressing to a patient, I will do an evaluation. This consists of checking a complete blood count (CBC) to look for anemia. Also, an electrolyte panel should be performed. This will include tests of kidney function and glucose (blood sugar) levels.
A TSH to check thyroid function should also be performed. And if you work with small children, or if you are around them often, consideration should be given to a Mono test as well.
If all these tests return as normal, then you can be reassured that most likely there is no significant pathology involved and that the fatigue should improve spontaneously.
In the meantime, other measures you can take include making sure that you are eating a proper diet. Avoid sugary foods, caffeine, and fatty or greasy foods. Instead fill up on fruits and vegetables, whole grains, pastas and seafood. Also, it is a good idea to be on an exercise program, though you should clear this with your physician first.
Herbal remedies such as Ginseng may benefit some non-pregnant patients, but due to a lack of studies, I would stop short of recommending these supplements during pregnancy. I wish you the best.
Bradley G. Goldberg, M.D.,
Chief of Staff, CRMC
Coffee Women's Center, P.C.
Further Reading
Fatigue During Pregnancy
Fighting Fatigue During Pregnancy
Signs of Pregnancy With a Negative Pregnancy Test
Pregnancy Skin - Get That Pregnancy Glow
Very Early Signs Of Pregnancy - Do You Know The 10 Pregnancy Signs?
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I am almost 12 weeks pregnant, and i am only 18 years old iam still always worn out.. i eat then i feel as if i need to nap. i go to town and feel as if i need to nap . i hope it goes away soon too. just hang in there take naps, i do
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I'm 12 weeks pregnant my moods swings are bad i need to take something for them i feel so bad. my children and partner are getting it in the necks
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