Pregnant and Shortness of Breath

The body changes a lot during pregnancy and has to refurnish to create the best conditions for the new life. Among other things, it gives a larger uterus. Therefore, especially at the end of pregnancy, you may feel very short of breath or shortness of breath. It is not due to bad shape and normalizes again after birth.

A growing uterus pressing on

Shortness of breath or a feeling of it is one of the most common symptoms in pregnancy. Especially in the latter part of pregnancy, it is very prominent because the growing uterus presses other organs against the lungs. It is not dangerous but means that the lungs do not have room to expand as much as usual.

Therefore, when you are active, it will give you a feeling of being short of breath or having a more challenging time breathing.

If you expect twins, it is significantly more normal to feel short of breath or become short of breath.

Shortness of breath in many situations

It is very different from woman to woman how often shortness of breath occurs. However, it often happens when you do the following:

- Sports

- Doing quick movements

- Going upstairs or hills

- Bends down (to tie shoes, find things, etc.)

Although it may feel uncomfortable, there is nothing to worry about as it is a prevalent nuisance when the baby grows in the womb.

Other causes of shortness of breath

A growing uterus is usually the primary reason you, as a pregnant woman, experience shortness of breath or shortness of breath. However, it can also be due to other causes in some cases.

Too little fluid

If you do not drink enough of what your body needs, you will become dehydrated. It can cause a tendency to shortness of breath. It helps to drink more fluid over a more extended period - preferably up to 3 liters, as the body needs extra fluid during pregnancy.

Low blood percentage

If you produce too little blood during your pregnancy, you will also be able to experience more shortness of breath. Too low a blood percentage can result in more fluid accumulating and settling in the lungs. If this happens, the lungs swell up a bit, making it more difficult for the lungs to draw oxygen into the bloodstream. It is not dangerous.

If it contributes to your shortness of breath, it will often also be combined with dizziness.

If you are concerned about whether you usually are short of breath or if there is anything that should be checked, you should consult your doctor. Here you can have blood samples taken and find out if there is anything you can do to improve the condition.