Dizziness during pregnancy is common and most often harmless. Dizziness, extreme fatigue, sweating, nausea... can be warning signs of pregnancy but also symptoms experienced from the first trimester. This dizziness due to rapid changes in hormones, common during this period, can be explained and relieved!
Where does pregnancy dizziness come from?
During pregnancy, the body of pregnant women undergoes major physiological phenomena to enable it to accommodate the baby in an appropriate manner.
Commonly a source of inconvenience, hormones are a primary cause of pregnancy dizziness . Indeed, during this period, the increase in the level of progesterone hormones reduces the quantity of blood reaching the brain by enlarging the walls of the blood vessels. Consequently, a pregnant woman's blood pressure is lower and her body will experience feelings of weakness, dizziness and minor discomfort.
Added to this is also the fact that pregnancy inevitably involves a greater need for blood necessary to supply the placenta and the fetus with oxygen. Blood volume therefore increases from the start of pregnancy in order to support the growth of the future baby.
In some women, anemia may be another cause of dizziness due to iron deficiency. Shortness of breath, facial paleness or even intense fatigue will be symptoms associated with this type of dizziness.
Finally, due to pregnancy, the woman's uterus is large and compresses the inferior vena cava, particularly in the lying position. Its obstruction hinders venous return by reducing it, which will consequently lead to dizziness due to a reduced supply of oxygen.
When does pregnancy dizziness start?
From the first weeks of pregnancy, feelings of dizziness may appear. This is particularly during the 1st trimester. The pregnant woman's body quickly experiences dizziness, due to the changes in her hormones, necessary for the creation of the baby.
During the 3rd trimester, feelings of dizziness may return due to the pressure the baby places on the mother's blood vessels and stomach.
In addition, whether at the beginning, during or at the end of pregnancy, dizziness is likely to occur although there is a greater concentration of these sensations around the 1st trimester.
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Tips against pregnancy dizziness
Unfortunately, dizziness during pregnancy cannot be cured because it disappears after a few minutes of waiting. However, there are certain things to do to limit the risk of suffering from dizziness.
The position to fight against dizziness
Adopting good postures by sitting and raising your legs can help limit dizziness but also the risk of falling. When sleeping, it is advisable to do so on your side to prevent the vena cava from obstructing blood flow. You can also slide a pillow or cushion between your legs or on your stomach for support.
Eat regularly
Too low a sugar level can harm you. It is therefore preferable to eat a regular and balanced diet. Eating a small sweet snack is also strongly recommended to lower blood sugar levels if you cannot eat right away.
Iron-rich diet
In case of dizziness of anemic origin, it is necessary to eat foods rich in iron in order to counter its deficiency. For example, you can eat meat, fish, legumes or even peas.
Favor slowness
Getting up too quickly can make you dizzy because the blood won't have time to get to your brain. Therefore, get up slowly, especially if you have been lying down for a long time!
Stay hydrated to combat dizziness
Drinking regularly is essential. Don't hesitate to hydrate yourself by drinking at least 2 liters of water per day.
Dress to stay cool
Although it seems contradictory, it is advisable to dress in many layers of clothing so that you can easily remove them if you get too hot. Temperatures that are too high greatly encourage the appearance of dizziness .
Pregnancy dizziness: when to worry and consult?
Dizziness is common during pregnancy and unfortunately there's not much you can do to make it go away other than wait. Although it generally remains benign for expectant mothers, dizziness should not be taken lightly. It is advisable to consult if:
- The discomfort persists intensely and regularly: A blood test could help detect a symptom of gestational diabetes
- You are suffering from fainting spells
- Bleeding or abdominal pain occurs: This may indicate a miscarriage, placental problem or ectopic pregnancy
- Dizziness is associated with headaches, edema, vision problems or increased blood pressure: These signs may be indicative of pre-eclampsia and constitute a medical emergency
Dizziness during pregnancy must therefore be the subject of particular attention even if it remains relatively common. If you like this article, we offer similar ones on other discomforts of pregnancy: Nausea during pregnancy: tips to calm it down or Dry skin during pregnancy .
