More tiredness during pregnancy

Early pregnancy may bring a strong need for sleep as your body adapts. Later, carrying extra weight, frequent urination, discomfort, heartburn or an active baby can make night-time rest less refreshing. Emotional strain and changing routines can add to the feeling of exhaustion.

Tiredness alone does not identify a particular condition. Persistent or worsening fatigue can also occur with anaemia, dehydration, infection, thyroid problems or other health issues. [Anaemia](/conditions/anaemia/) and [Dehydration](/conditions/dehydration/) are examples worth discussing if you also feel weak, dizzy or unwell.

Rest when you can, keep a regular sleep routine and use pillows to make your position more comfortable. Eat regular nourishing meals and drink fluids through the day. Gentle movement, if your maternity team says it is suitable, may help you feel less sluggish. Share household or work tasks and avoid driving when you feel too sleepy to concentrate.

Do not start iron tablets, herbal products or other medicines without checking that they are appropriate in pregnancy. Keep a brief note of sleep, meals, symptoms and activity; this can show whether a pattern is developing.

Contact your maternity team or clinician if tiredness is severe, lasts despite rest, or stops you managing usual activities. Arrange prompt advice for fainting, breathlessness at rest, chest pain, a racing heartbeat, persistent vomiting, fever, new swelling or bleeding. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, confusion or sudden severe pain.

Ask whether your symptoms fit the stage of pregnancy, whether a blood test for anaemia is appropriate, and which supplements or activity levels are suitable for you. Mention changes in sleep, appetite, mood, bleeding, breathlessness or dizziness.