5 causes of dizziness in pregnancy and tips to relieve the discomfort

During pregnancy, it is normal for the expectant mother to experience some different and even uncomfortable symptoms. Dizziness in pregnancy is one of them and is usually not a cause for concern. Check out below the explanation given by gynecologist and obstetrician Regina Amarante, from the São Camilo de São Paulo Hospital Network, on the subject.

What is dizziness in pregnancy

According to Dr. Regina, “drowsiness in pregnancy is a common symptom many expectant mothers experience from the first few weeks and throughout their pregnancy.” She explained that “it occurs due to physiological changes in the maternal organism and the sensation is that the head is spinning, in addition to difficulties in maintaining balance and the impression that you will faint”.

5 causes of dizziness in pregnancy that can be easily explained

As the obstetrician explained, dizziness in pregnancy is a result of physiological changes during pregnancy. The following are the causes of this malaise:

• Increase in blood volume: Regina commented that “the blood becomes more diluted and the pregnant woman has sudden drops in blood pressure, either by getting up too fast or by the heat”.
• Hypoglycemia: “it happens when the mother-to-be goes without food for a long time”, explained the obstetrician.
• Dehydration: occurs “especially on the hottest days, when not consuming water and other liquids for a long time”.
• Nutritional deficiencies: “As the baby is developing, the expectant mother needs more nutrients in her body. Dizziness can be a sign of iron deficiency,” explained Regina.
• Position when lying down: “in the third trimester, when the pregnant woman lies on her back, the weight of the uterus reduces venous return”.

Read on to learn what to do to relieve dizziness during pregnancy, as well as tips to avoid the symptom.

What to do to relieve dizziness in pregnancy

Below, check out the recommendations of Dr. Regina to relieve dizziness during pregnancy:

• Take cooler, colder or warmer baths;
• Avoid staying in the same position for a long time;
• Do not lie on your back in the third trimester of pregnancy;
• Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day;
• Eat meals every 3 hours to avoid hypoglycemia.

With these tips, it is easier for the expectant mother to reduce the feeling of dizziness in the three trimesters of pregnancy. However, if dizziness is frequent and bothersome, be sure to seek medical attention. Read on to see if you can avoid the problem.

How to avoid dizziness in pregnancy

The obstetrician explained that it is difficult to prevent dizziness from appearing, mainly because it results from the change in the woman’s body. However, some tips can help prevent discomfort. Look that:

• Getting up slowly after lying or sitting for more than 15 minutes;
• Avoid very tight clothing;
• Do regular leg exercises, especially when sitting;
• Feeding every 3 hours;
• Stay hydrated by drinking about 2 liters of water a day.

Dizziness in pregnancy is normal, but be sure to talk to your obstetrician about this discomfort, especially if it is frequent and precedes fainting. Enjoy and check out these tips on low blood pressure in pregnancy.