Morning sickness can drain your energy in the first trimester.
Fatigue is one of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy. Rising levels of progesterone, morning sickness and the myriad physical changes necessary to grow a baby can drain a newly pregnant woman of her energy. In "Belly Laughs," former MTV host Jenny McCarthy compared first trimester fatigue to "staying up all night, then running a marathon, then doing 300 loads of laundry and raking leaves off a football field all in one day." Pregnant women may not be able to completely avoid pregnancy-related fatigue, but adopting certain healthy habits can help increase your energy level during the first trimester.
Sleep
To combat early-pregnancy fatigue, sleep when you feel tired. Every extra half-hour of sleep you can squeeze in will help increase your energy level. If you find your sleep interrupted by trips to the bathroom, cut down on the amount of liquids you drink before bed and avoid caffeinated drinks, like coffee and tea, that make you urinate more often. Eat bananas for extra potassium to prevent painful leg cramps that can disturb your sleep. Purchase a maternity pillow to snuggle with if you have a hard time finding a comfortable sleeping position.
Eat Well
During pregnancy, you need an extra 300 calories per day. Getting these extra calories -- and others you consume -- from nutritious sources can improve your energy level. Focus on foods that provide nutrients you and your growing baby need, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and low-fat dairy. Consume 27 mg iron a day to prevent anemia. Eat small, frequent meals and drink enough water to keep energy-draining nausea at baby. Avoid junk food like candy, fried food and baked goods that can sap your energy.
Exercise
It might seem counterintuitive, but exercise can help keep your energy levels up. Choose activities that aren't too strenuous, like walking or yoga, or a take prenatal fitness class. Go for a relaxing swim, since the water's buoyancy makes it a very safe, low-impact activity. Exercise outdoors so the fresh air can energize you. If you don't have time for an actual workout, find ways to walk more throughout the day. Walk rather than drive short distances, park a good distance from a store's entrance and take the stairs rather than the elevator.
Relax
Stress drains energy, so finding ways to relax can help you feel more energetic. Limit unnecessary obligations, or even the time you spend on chores like housekeeping and grocery shopping, so you have time to spend doing things you enjoy. Get a massage, soak in a bubble bath, have your nails done or take a vacation. Worry is a normal part of pregnancy, whether it is about the baby's health, impending parenthood or the prospect of giving birth. Talk to someone you trust -- your partner, a friend or a therapist -- before these anxieties overwhelm you.
Tags: your energy, energy level, first trimester, your energy level, extra calories