Pregnant women often experience shortness of breath during late pregnancy or in the third trimester. Apart from interfering with daily activities, this condition can of course make pregnant women worry.
It is undeniable that shortness of breath is associated with serious diseases, such as heart failure and asthma. However, pregnant women need not be afraid. Shortness of breath during late pregnancy is generally not caused by anything dangerous.
Causes of Shortness of Breath when Pregnant
Increased levels of the hormone progesterone in the body are one of the causes of shortness of breath. This is a normal condition that occurs during pregnancy.
Progesterone is a natural hormone produced by the body and functions to maintain the development of the little one in the womb. Precisely if the production of the hormone progesterone decreases, pregnant women have the potential to miscarry.
In addition to the increase in the hormone progesterone, shortness of breath can also be caused by the enlargement of the uterus. The size of the pregnant woman's uterus will continue to increase following the growth of the little one. The enlarged uterus will put pressure on the lower lung muscle (diaphragm) and make it difficult for pregnant women to breathe. This condition is normal. The shortness of breath that pregnant women feel will decrease after the little one is born.
However, shortness of breath can also be a sign of other health problems. Pregnant women should see a doctor immediately if shortness of breath feels very severe, or is accompanied by the appearance of other symptoms, such as:
- Persistent cough or coughing up blood.
- Fever.
- Chest pain.
- Pale.
- Heart rate and pulse become faster than normal.
- Felt like I was going to faint.
- Blue lips, fingers, or toes.
- Swelling in certain body parts, such as the legs and face.
Shortness of breath during late pregnancy that is not caused by a serious health problem is generally not severe or interferes with activities. However, if pregnant women experience shortness of breath with additional symptoms, there may be a medical condition such as anemia, asthma, preeclampsia and pneumonia. Shortness of breath due to this disease is something that needs immediate medical attention.
Handling Shortness of Breath when Pregnant
Shortness of breath during late pregnancy is a disturbing condition. Pregnant women can take the following steps to reduce the shortness of breath they experience:
- Pay attention to body positionTry to stay upright when sitting or standing, and avoid slouching as much as possible. Slouching can put pressure on the lungs which makes it difficult for pregnant women to breathe.
- Put a support while sleepingWhen going to sleep, use a pillow to support the upper body. This will reduce the pressure on the lungs coming from the uterus.
- ExercisingLight exercise such as walking, yoga, or swimming can help pregnant women breathe. Avoid jumping or skipping. Take a break or stop exercising when pregnant women feel tired.
- RelaxTake time to relax. The more anxious you are with your shortness of breath, the more likely it is that your shortness of breath will worsen. Sleep or rest the body when pregnant women feel the need.
Basically, the risk of shortness of breath during late pregnancy can be reduced by eating healthy foods, maintaining weight, and drinking enough water. Check and consult further with your obstetrician, if the above methods have not been able to relieve the shortness of breath that appears.
