Could Recent Constant Fatigue Be a Sign of Pregnancy?

Recent feelings of constant fatigue do not necessarily indicate pregnancy, but pregnancy can indeed lead to feelings of drowsiness. Insufficient sleep or poor sleep quality, such as spending most of the time in shallow and light sleep, cannot truly eliminate fatigue, leading to feelings of drowsiness and lack of energy. During early pregnancy, due to changes in hormonal levels, accelerated metabolism, changes in the reproductive system, increased heat consumption, and hypoglycemia, pregnant women may experience drowsiness and increased sleepiness. Excessive sleepiness in pregnant women is a common early pregnancy reaction.

Due to differences in constitution, lifestyle, and dietary habits, each pregnant woman may experience different levels of sleepiness, and the intensity of their sleepiness reactions may vary. If a pregnant woman feels constantly fatigued and sleepy during pregnancy, it is not necessary to be overly tense as this is a normal pregnancy reaction. Adequate sleep is crucial for pregnant women.

Pregnant women with excessive sleepiness do not need to be nervous and can sleep whenever they wish. During pregnancy, as the fetus absorbs nutrients from the mother, it is common to feel extremely fatigued. When feeling particularly sleepy, a short nap can help alleviate fatigue. The causes of sleepiness in pregnant women may be related to hormonal changes during pregnancy, such as increased progesterone levels. Additionally, increased basal metabolism, rapid heat consumption, and hypoglycemia can also contribute to sleepiness.

Generally, feelings of sleepiness usually occur after six weeks of missed menstruation and last until approximately three months of pregnancy. As the placenta becomes fully formed around the 14th to 15th week of gestation, feelings of sleepiness tend to decrease. However, if symptoms of excessive sleepiness are severe or persist into the second trimester of pregnancy, it is advisable to consult a doctor.