Fatigue is one of the more frustrating side effects of pregnancy. The extreme tiredness can interfere with your daily routine. Women with chronic fatigue syndrome experience fatigue that is truly debilitating. Since this syndrome is more prevalent in women, pregnancy is often an issue.
The most prominent symptom of chronic fatigue syndrome is the extreme fatigue. This comes on suddenly and may last for months, or even years. Other symptoms include sore throats, headaches, pain in the joints, muscle pain, difficulty concentrating and poor memory.
Studies are being conducted about the effect of pregnancy on chronic fatigue syndrome. Preliminary results show that about two thirds of women with chronic fatigue syndrome feel better during pregnancy. The increase in blood volume and circulation are one reason this is thought to occur. Another is changes in hormone levels during pregnancy.
Unfortunately, this won’t be the experience for all women. Some continue to experience periods of chronic fatigue throughout the pregnancy. The individual experience during pregnancy is as varied as it is among non pregnant women.
For some, chronic fatigue syndrome last for years and get progressively worse. For others, the first year is the worst and then the symptoms become stable. This group may experience periods chronic fatigue followed by periods of recovery.
If you have chronic fatigue syndrome, consult your doctor about medications that may be prescribed. Most are not considered safe during pregnancy. Your health care provider may suggest a milder option, such as Benadryl in place of other sleep medications. Don’t take anything without your doctor’s approval, either prescribed or over the counter medications.
Antidepressants are sometimes prescribed for chronic fatigue syndrome. There is controversy over the safety and benefit of this treatment during pregnancy. Your doctor is the best resource to help you evaluate the need for medication and any potential risks to the baby.