WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Fatigue in the Third Trimester

Pregnancy
Pregnancy symptoms
Fatigue in the Third Trimester
Fatigue in the third trimester is a common experience for many expectant mothers, characterized by an increased sense of physical and mental tiredness.
This late-stage pregnancy fatigue can be attributed to the extra weight being carried, disrupted sleep patterns, and the body's preparation for childbirth.
Is It Normal?
Experiencing fatigue during the third trimester is entirely normal. As the body undergoes significant changes and the baby grows larger, the increased demand on energy reserves can lead to feelings of exhaustion.
Percentage of Women Affected
  • Seventh Month: Approximately 35-45% of pregnant women report fatigue.
  • Eighth Month: The prevalence may increase, with around 50-60% experiencing fatigue.
  • Ninth Month: A high percentage, possibly up to 65-75%, report feeling fatigued as they near their due date.
Tips to Prevent and Care for Fatigue
  1. Rest and Naps: Listen to your body and take rest or naps when needed.
  2. Balanced Diet: Ensure a diet rich in nutrients that support energy levels, like iron and protein.
  3. Light Exercise: Gentle exercises like walking or prenatal yoga can boost energy levels and help with sleep.
  4. Sleep Support: Use pillows for support and find comfortable sleeping positions to improve sleep quality.
A significant number of women experience fatigue in the third trimester:
"As you enter the third trimester, it's common to feel more tired. Your body is carrying extra weight and working hard to prepare for childbirth. It's important to rest whenever you can. Make sure you're eating a balanced diet to support your increased energy needs. Gentle exercise can also help, but listen to your body and don't overdo it. If you're feeling excessively tired or have other symptoms like swelling or headaches, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider, as these could be signs of complications such as preeclampsia."
Juliette, Midwife
When Should I Consult?
Consult a healthcare provider if:
  • Fatigue is overwhelming and affects your ability to perform daily activities.
  • There are additional symptoms like severe swelling, headaches, or visual disturbances.
  • You experience significant changes in your baby's movement patterns.
  • You have concerns about insomnia or sleep disturbances.
Top Asked Questions
  1. Is it normal to feel very tired in the third trimester? Yes, it's common due to the physical demands of late pregnancy.
  2. Can third trimester fatigue affect my labor and delivery? While fatigue is normal, maintaining good physical and mental health is important for labor.
  3. How can I manage sleep issues related to third trimester fatigue? Creating a comfortable sleep environment and using pillows for support can help.
  4. What foods or supplements can help combat third trimester fatigue? Focus on nutrient-rich foods, and discuss any needed supplements with your healthcare provider.
Sources
  • The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Guidelines on health and fatigue during the third trimester.
  • National Institutes of Health: Studies on the impact of late pregnancy changes on maternal energy levels.
  • Journal of Women's Health: Research articles focusing on sleep and fatigue in late pregnancy.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): General recommendations for health and wellbeing during the third trimester.
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BIG BOOTY JUDY JU😘😘🥰
30 Oct 2023

Happy 27 weeks son we in our third trimester we almost there let’s go💙💙😘

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2 comments
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💜Chelley💜
Happy 27wks to y’all 💙💙💙💙
27 Mar 2024

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Vivian
4 May 2023

I haven’t posted in quite a while but things have been ok! I’m struggling with work and fatigue/other symptoms though :( this third trimester is no joke and I’m only 29 weeks! Anyways, I got a 3D ultrasound and my whole family is saying baby boy looks like me haha! I’m so excited to meet my nugget💕

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2 comments
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Shanda
I feel you but I’m not only 22 weeks. I can’t sleep at night due to my hips, legs, and frequent urinating. I work full full time and have a cleaning job on the side on the weekends. I’m on pelvic rest and can’t lift anything over 10, not sure how I’m going to be able to make it lol
27 Mar 2024

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Vivian
It’s hard!! I’m actually a housekeeper as well so I understand the pain! I’m also on pelvic rest but as a single momma I’ve gotta make some money 😭 just remember not to push yourself at all, your health and babies health are the most important thing.
27 Mar 2024

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Megan
21 Feb 2023

I really struggled my third trimester with my first pregnancy.. I’m only 15 weeks and already experiencing some of those symptoms I had third trimester.. I’m scared. 😭

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2 comments
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Megan
Hopefully the rest of our pregnancies aren’t too bad 😅
27 Mar 2024

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Shawna
20 Dec 2022

The fatigue is strong these past few days I can definitely tell I’m in my 3rd trimester

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3 comments
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Shawna
It sucks but we are almost at the finish line tho ☺️
27 Mar 2024

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Alexis
7 Dec 2022

Any suggestion for extreme fatigue/weakness and headache. I’m in my second trimester and it’s getting to me now.

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2 comments
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Alexis
Yes I’m taking iron pills
27 Mar 2024

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Marissa
22 May 2022

Going into the final trimester of my first pregnancy, any tips for third trimester?

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Blocked user
We going together. When u due
27 Mar 2024

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Marissa
August 19th
27 Mar 2024

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