Fight Fatigue for Better Pregnancy Sleep

Everyone wants to know how to combat the exhaustion and fatigue that often accompany pregnancy, but don't forget that fatigue in the first trimester, second trimester and third trimester are really three different problems, and call for separate solutions.

In the first trimester, it's normal to feel exhausted and in desperate need of sleep, but the best I can advise is to listen to your body and get as much rest as you can, when you can. A lot of women feel the need to sleep or take a nap often, which is fine in the first pregnancy but might not work very well if you have other children to attend to. I advise women who are having pregnancy sleep troubles to get started on an exercise program right away, so that later on, they're better able to carry that extra weight without getting wiped out.

In the second trimester, most women don't feel all that tired. In fact, you may feel pretty good, because it's the most stable phase of your pregnancy. This is the time to plan big projects, travel or set up the nursery, and that daytime activity can help you fall asleep at night. If the discomfort of your growing belly is leaving you sleepless, try investing in a special pregnancy pillow to support you better.

The third trimester is when you often start to feel exhausted again. In addition to light exercise, make sure to eat healthy, protein-rich foods to keep your energy up. You may want to try prenatal massage to relieve stress, but even if you feel tired, staying active is the best way to keep fatigue at bay.