By: Jessica Collins
Updated: March 18, 2020
Originally Published: March 2, 2018
When I was six months pregnant with my youngest child, staying awake past 7:30 PM felt like an impossible feat. After tucking my other two kids in bed, I would slip into my cozy robe, wrap up in a blanket, and apply a nasal strip (thanks to pregnancy rhinitis) before succumbing to sleep. No amount of anticipation for a fun TV show or a quiet dinner with my partner could keep me awake. The sheer exhaustion of growing a human being had taken over.
My husband would often look at me, pleading for me to stay awake a little longer, feeling lonely in my absence. I felt guilty, like syrup melting down a stack of warm pancakes, but that guilt did little to help me fight off the waves of fatigue. My body was working overtime, gaining weight each week as it demanded more rest. It was as if I had taken a handful of sleeping pills chased down with a fruity cocktail—completely wiped out.
After discussing my fatigue with my midwife, she simply said, “Tell him to get over it. You’re growing a heart and lungs—you’re making a human.” Her words provided a sense of validation I desperately needed. I recognized that the effort of nurturing another life was nothing short of monumental, though I needed that professional reassurance.
The Reality of Pregnancy Fatigue
The reality is, pregnancy is undeniably exhausting—no exceptions. Some women struggle through the first trimester, while others feel the drain more intensely as they near the finish line. Many of us feel worn out throughout the entire experience.
Even if you’re solely focused on growing that baby, the task can be draining enough to leave you craving naps and wishing for 12 hours of sleep each night. But for most of us, pregnancy is just one part of a busy life. Whether you’re juggling other children, working full-time, or managing numerous household responsibilities like laundry and grocery shopping, it can feel nearly impossible to get through the day without looking like the living dead.
Embracing the Exhaustion
It’s common to worry that you’ll never regain your energy. I often questioned if my vitality had vanished for good. But then I remembered my midwife’s advice. When you reflect on the incredible ability of our bodies to create skin, hair, and eyes, it becomes easier to embrace the exhaustion—so go ahead and lean into it, quite literally. Find your bed or sofa whenever you can.
Your energy will return in due time; it may take months or even years, but that’s okay. What matters most is that you prioritize self-care throughout your pregnancy and those early months post-delivery. Don’t hesitate to ask for what you need, even if it means displaying a “Do Not Disturb” sign on your front door for a couple of months while you indulge in your favorite snacks.
Remember, this fatigue is completely normal. And don’t shy away from neglecting household chores every once in a while; you have far more important things on your plate. If you’re interested in more insights on pregnancy, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy week by week at March of Dimes. For those on a fertility journey, consider reading about couples’ fertility journey for intracervical insemination as well.
Conclusion
In summary, being pregnant is a remarkable yet exhausting journey. Embrace the fatigue, prioritize rest, and remember that you are doing something truly extraordinary.