WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Fatigue in the Second Trimester

Pregnancy
Pregnancy symptoms
Fatigue in the Second Trimester
Fatigue in the second trimester, though often less intense than in the first trimester, can still be a significant concern for some pregnant women.
This persistent tiredness is a deep, physical need for rest and can be attributed to ongoing physiological changes, the body's increased demand for nutrients, and the added weight and stress of the growing fetus.
Is It Normal?
Experiencing fatigue in the second trimester is relatively common, although many women report feeling more energetic during this period compared to the first trimester.
It is still considered a normal part of pregnancy, but persistent or severe fatigue should be monitored.
Percentage of Women Affected
While the prevalence of fatigue tends to decrease in the second trimester, a considerable number of women continue to experience it:
  • Fourth Month: About 40-50% of pregnant women report feeling fatigued.
  • Fifth Month: The percentage may decrease slightly, with around 30-40% experiencing fatigue.
  • Sixth Month: Fatigue affects approximately 25-35% of women.
Tips to Prevent and Care for Fatigue
  1. Balanced Nutrition: Focus on a diet rich in iron, protein, and other essential nutrients to support energy levels.
  2. Regular Exercise: Moderate exercise can boost energy levels and improve overall well-being.
  3. Adequate Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids is essential to prevent dehydration, which can cause or worsen fatigue.
  4. Quality Sleep: Prioritize comfortable sleeping positions and create a restful environment to improve sleep quality.
In the second trimester, while some women experience a boost in their energy levels, others may still feel quite fatigued.
This continued tiredness is normal, but it's important to address it.
Ensuring a nutritious diet, staying hydrated, getting regular, gentle exercise, and prioritizing good sleep hygiene can all help manage this fatigue.
If you find that the tiredness is overwhelming or if it's accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness or shortness of breath, I recommend consulting with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues.
When Should I Consult?
Consultation is recommended if:
  • Fatigue becomes severe or is accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, or palpitations.
  • You're unable to maintain a balanced diet due to excessive tiredness.
  • You notice a sudden increase in fatigue without any apparent cause.
  • Sleep disturbances or insomnia exacerbate the tiredness.
Top Asked Questions
  1. Is it normal to still feel tired in the second trimester? While many women feel more energetic, continued fatigue is also normal.
  2. Can fatigue indicate any complications? While usually normal, fatigue can sometimes be a sign of iron deficiency anemia or other conditions.
  3. How can I improve my energy levels? A balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep hygiene can help.
  4. Are there any specific foods or supplements that help with fatigue? Foods high in iron and B vitamins can be beneficial, and your healthcare provider may recommend supplements if needed.
Sources
  • The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Detailed guidelines and studies on second trimester fatigue.
  • National Institute of Child Health and Human Development: Research on nutritional needs during pregnancy.
  • Journal of Prenatal Medicine: Studies on the impact of exercise and diet on pregnancy-related fatigue.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Recommendations for sleep and general health during pregnancy.
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J
JADAH
13 Sep 2023

I’m in my second trimester and literally everything I had in my first trimester is coming back help me lord

Pregnancy Pregnancy symptoms
2 comments
S
Shyderria
I feel the same way far as nausea coming back
27 Mar 2024

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JADAH
Uh the worst
27 Mar 2024

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Lauren
7 Sep 2023

During the beginning of the second trimester I had so much energy ( thank Jesus ) but now that I’m halfway thru it, fatigue hit me HARD this week. No matter how much sleep or rest, I’m very exhausted & tired. Any other mamas feeling like this?

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1 comments
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Selena
I feel the same way I’m 24 weeks going on 25, I get very lightheaded also I just listen to my body and take it easy
27 Mar 2024

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Alyssa
4 Jun 2023

I’m in my second trimester right now and working and some days I just really need to nap when I get home. I’m worried because I’m not being active enough. Does anyone also get moments of fatigue especially after doing a prolonged task during the day? I’m going to start exercising soon but man…some guilt is creeping in😭

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11 comments
M
Megan
Give yourself some grace, some women can do it all while pregnant and others can’t. I’m one who can’t. I constantly feel like I could close my eyes and pass out and I’ve been very inactive this pregnancy! Listen to your body and give it what it needs ♥️
27 Mar 2024

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T
Tate
Lol.. no.. when you get 7-9 months, your going to be fully active.. so work until you cant.. I literally worked until I was 39 weeks.. and had my son at 41 weeks.. when I worked instead of taking my 30 min break when it was time, I'll take my break when it was time to leave, and sleep in my car in the parking lot.. lol.. you are fine..
27 Mar 2024

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Emily
2 Feb 2023

So sleepy today . Is anyone still experiencing major fatigue in the second trimester ?

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7 comments
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🍹Jenni
Definitely! Stay tired! I thought 2nd trimester I’d be energetic! Not yet! 😂
27 Mar 2024

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Elizabeth
20 Sep 2022

What does the second trimester feel like I’m already gonna go to my second trimester but what can I expect

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2 comments
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sam
Second trimester is much better than the first and the third trimester. You have more energy and less morning sickness per my experience
27 Mar 2024

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Elizabeth
Thank you I’ve just been curious on like what I can expect and everything
27 Mar 2024

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🌀
🌀⚡KERI⚡🌀
17 Jun 2022

In my second trimester today .... 13 weeks today !!!!! 🎉🎉🎉🥰🥰🥰🎉🎉🎉

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8 comments
q
quita
Congratulations welcome to the 2nd trimester
27 Mar 2024

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F
Fiona
Hun the second trimester starts from 14 weeks
27 Mar 2024

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Shay
14 Jun 2022

Did anyone else get hit with a second round of fatigue in 2nd trimester? I had it really bad week 3-8 and than it went completely away. The last few days I have felt the same way as when I first got it and I'm 17 weeks now. All I want to do is take a nap......

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6 comments
k
kaycee
Same happened to me, the fatigue never fully went away but it did lessen up around 11 weeks but now 19 weeks and it seems to be coming back. It started coming back a week or so ago for me.
27 Mar 2024

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sammie
So I didn't get the first trimester of fatigue because I have three other kids but now that I'm 16 weeks it's definitely hitting
27 Mar 2024

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Erica
30 Apr 2022

Should I be worried. This is my second pregnancy. During my first I was really sick always throwing up. I actually lost weight during my first trimester. This time however I haven’t had any symptoms no nausea no fatigue I’m really starting to get worried.

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2 comments
b
brittany
You may get it later in the pregnancy. Every pregnancy is different. If you want to call your Dr and see what they say. But I promise you it's normal. I'm almost 5 weeks with my second baby and I don't have morning sickness at all
27 Mar 2024

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Myra
I'm the opposite my first 2 pregnancy I never got morning sickness, this one I'm constantly nauseous and throw up every couple days or sooner if the smells are to strong. So it is completely normal to not be sick. But I agree with Brittany if you feel like something is wrong get checked out by your doc. It's always better to be safe than sorry.
27 Mar 2024

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momma1
18 Jan 2022

I am in my first trimester and I'm sooooo tired all the time. Anything helping anyone with the fatigue?!!!

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0 comments
R
Rachael
Nope I just slept when I could
27 Mar 2024

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Tammy
Glad to know it's not just me. One day I slept for 12 hours and woke up so disoriented 😵
27 Mar 2024

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