Pregnancy is associated with numerous physical and emotional changes. Perhaps one of the most unexpected and sometimes frightening symptoms many women notice during pregnancy is shortness of breath. From climbing a flight of stairs or simply talking for prolonged periods, shortness of breath during pregnancy may be frightening for first-time mothers.
Fortunately, mild breathlessness is usually a normal part of pregnancy and is related to the many changes your body goes through to support the growing baby. However, it’s also important to know when shortness of breath may signal an underlying issue.
This article explores the causes, timing, and management of breath issues during pregnancy and helps you understand when to seek medical attention.
There are various physiological and hormonal causes of shortness of breath during pregnancy. These are:
1. Pressure from an Expanding Uterus
With the growth of the uterus, particularly in the third trimester, the uterus rises against the diaphragm, the primary muscle involved in breathing. This reduces the area available for the lungs to expand, and you feel as if you are short of breath.
2. Hormonal Alterations
In shortness of breath early pregnancy, rising levels of progesterone, the hormone crucial for maintaining pregnancy, can directly affect the brain’s respiratory centres. This results in an increased breathing rate and sensitivity to carbon dioxide, making you feel like you're not getting enough air even when oxygen levels are normal.
3. Increased Oxygen Demand
Pregnancy increases the body's oxygen needs. Your blood and cardiac output increase, so your heart and lungs need to work harder to supply you and your baby with what you need. This increased workload can leave you breathless, often during exercise or periods of stress.
Breathlessness is possible at any time during pregnancy, but the reasons can be different based on timing.
Shortness of breath in early pregnancy is common to many women due to hormonal shifts, specifically elevated progesterone. Although the uterus is not yet much developed, the respiratory system begins to develop early in the first trimester.
During the third trimester, the mechanical consequences of an expanding uterus become more important. When the uterus presses against the rib cage, lung expansion is limited, and breathing becomes more difficult, particularly when reclining or after exercise.
Although mild breathlessness is normal, it's essential to differentiate from usual pregnancy symptoms and signs that require prompt medical intervention:
If any of these symptoms occur, seek a medical assessment immediately.
1. Normal Pregnancy Changes
As discussed, hormonal and anatomical changes are the most frequent reasons for breathing issues during pregnancy.
2. Anaemia
Anaemia that occurs with pregnancy, specifically iron-deficiency anaemia, decreases the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood. This can result in fatigue, pallor and shortness of breath on slight exertion.
3. Asthma or Respiratory Conditions
If you already have asthma, you will find your symptoms more noticeable or more difficult to manage during pregnancy. Additionally, respiratory infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia can significantly impact breathing.
4. Heart Conditions
Even though uncommon, some women can develop or find underlying heart issues in pregnancy. These can be peripartum cardiomyopathy, valvular disease, or arrhythmias, all of which can lead to severe breathing problems in pregnancy.
5. Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
This is a serious medical condition in which a blood clot migrates to the lungs, producing sudden chest pain, shortness of breath and a racing heart. Though uncommon, pregnant women are more likely to experience this due to heightened blood clotting tendencies.
If you are frequently short of breath during pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider for these warning signs:
Physicians can utilise instruments such as pulse oximetry, blood work, chest X-rays (pregnancy-safe if needed), or echocardiograms to determine the cause and direct treatment.
Though all breathlessness cannot be prevented, some effective measures can be taken to manage the symptoms:
1. Use Good Posture
Sitting or standing straight enables your lungs to breathe more easily. Try to avoid slouching, especially during late pregnancy.
2. Sleep in a Propped-Up Position
Elevate your upper body using pillows and offload the pressure from the diaphragm while sleeping.
3. Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet
Drinking enough water and consuming iron-rich foods may help alleviate anaemia and boost overall energy levels.
4. Do Light Exercise
Prenatal yoga, swimming, or walking may enhance lung function and reduce anxiety, which can indirectly help alleviate breathing difficulties during pregnancy.
5. Pranayama Exercises
Pranayama exercises can condition your body to deal with oxygen better and alleviate anxiety that aggravates symptoms.
6. Control Underlying Ailments
Consult your doctor if you suffer from asthma or anaemia. Adhere to the recommended supplements or medication as instructed to manage symptoms effectively.
At Cloudnine Hospitals, your pregnancy is supported by a team of multidisciplinary obstetricians, pulmonologists, and cardiologists, attending to every detail of your health with utmost care. From shortness of breath during early pregnancy to breathlessness in later stages, Cloudnine offers personalised evaluations, diagnostic assistance, and lifestyle counselling based on your condition.
What distinguishes Cloudnine is its empathetic and sophisticated maternity care, all in a safe and nurturing setup. With emergency care available 24/7 and skilled experts on hand at all times, Cloudnine turns moments of uncertainty into reassurance and relief.
Shortness of breath during pregnancy is a common experience for many women and is usually a natural part of the body adjusting to the growing baby. Yet, it's wise to know when it's normal and when it's a sign of something more serious. Stay educated, take care of yourself, and have routine checkups, and you will be able to control breathing problems during pregnancy with confidence.
If you have been feeling persistently or abnormally breathless, don't dismiss it. Schedule an appointment with the specialist team at Cloudnine Hospital for individualised care and reassurance.
