Fainting or dizziness during pregnancy is quite common. Although it is expected most during the first trimester, it may persist throughout the pregnancy period also. Read on to learn more about this problem and how to deal with it.There was a time when fainting or dizziness was symptoms to learn about anyone’s pregnancy. However, this is not quite unnatural because fainting during early pregnancy period or in the middle of it is quite natural. Although this is not exactly a problem, it can be a bit embarrassing especially when you are amidst some people.
I have been having fainting spells and dizziness
Dizziness is common in
pregnancy, but fainting frequently is certainly not so. The reason for dizziness could be either reduced blood circulation or low blood sugar.
What does dizziness have to do with blood circulation?
In the first trimester your blood supply may be inadequate to fill the expanding circulatory system. In the
second trimester, it is caused by the pressure of the expanding uterus on maternal blood vessels. If it occurs on rising from a prone position, it is called postural hypotension. When your blood pressure drops rapidly, the blood moves away from the brain. In such cases you must get up slowly. No fast jerky movements. Fortunately though, the blood flow to your brain is reduced only temporarily, and therefore will not harm your baby.
Could staying hungry for long periods result in dizziness
Sometimes it happens when blood sugar is low, and when you have not eaten something after a long interval. So always carry some whole wheat biscuits or breadsticks for such emergencies. If you are in a crowded stuffy room, try to get some air. If you suddenly feel faint, increase the circulation to the brain by lying down or putting your head between your knees.
What are the common causes of fainting and dizziness during pregnancy?
Change of hormones – The main cause of dizziness during pregnancy is the change in hormones that relax and enlarges the blood vessels.
Low blood pressure – The broad blood vessels cause the blood pressure to remain lower than normal and this reduces the blood flow to the brain which results in temporary dizziness.
Low blood sugar level – Dizziness can also be caused due to lower blood sugar level which is mostly because of going too long without food. This mostly happens because due to
morning sickness, pregnant women do not feel like eating or drinking something.
Low iron level – If there is not enough iron in the blood, it will cause feelings of weakness and fainting.
Lying on your back – Dizziness in late pregnancy can be because you are lying on your back. This happens because the weight of your unborn presses down vena cava, a major blood vessel.
Other reasons why you feel dizzy during pregnancy may be -
- If you lie down for long and then get up all of a sudden
- If you stand up too quickly
- If you stay in hot or stuffy room for long
- If you are wearing tight or too warm clothes
- If you are dehydrated
Remedies to prevent dizziness during pregnancy
Since there are many reasons why you feel dizzy, there are a number of remedies also. Here are some suggestions that can help you through and prevent dizziness in your pregnancy period.
- Whether sitting or lying down, be careful and get up slowly. Be extra cautious when you are getting out of bathtub.
- Avoid standing for long in one place. If you do not have choice, try to move around slowly so that blood circulation is proper.
- Avoid hot shower or bath.
- Wear loose and comfortable clothing. Make sure your dress is not tight at waist or neck.
- Eat properly and regularly. Do not stay hungry for long or give a long gap between meals.
- Avoid lying on your back especially from second trimester onwards.
- Although fainting is rare, you should talk to your doctor so that he can find out whether you are anemic or if there is any other reason for fainting.
- If dizziness is accompanied with headaches or breathlessness, talk to your doctor.
- Drink enough water. Six to eight glasses of water is recommended.
Some women feel dizzy at night. If you feel the same, try to lie down on your left side. You will feel better. Just keep in mind that feeling dizzy or fainting periodically is quite normal when you are pregnant. The only thing is that if you find this recurring or the condition persists and is accompanied with numbness and weakness in arms and limbs or there are vision disturbances, you should get in touch with your obstetrician and get the essential tests done.
If in case the tips mentioned here does not tend to help you, ask your doctor to suggest a therapist so that he helps you figure out what would make you feel better. If there is abdominal pain with dizziness, contact your obstetrician immediately.
What are the causes of dizziness and fainting during pregnancy? How to prevent fainting during pregnancy? What are the remedies for dealing with dizziness during pregnancy?Discuss here. 
