Shortness of breath during pregnancy

This a common side effect of pregnancy. Not something to be overly worried about. Your body is under more strain with the baby so remember, take it easy!

Your body does need more oxygen during pregnancy so it does adapt to meet this need. Any increase in the hormone progesterone affects your lungs and the respiratory part of your brain.

Remember to take things easy during Pregnancy – shortness of breath could be just your body telling you to slow down a little.

Can shortness of breath be the sign of more serious problems?

It can in rare occasions be the sign of something more serious, if you have an underlying problem prior to pregnancy.

Later in your pregnancy there is another cause of shortness of breath. Your uterus begins to push on other parts of your body – these changes can make it hard for you to breath.