Bharti Singh, currently pregnant with her second child, recently gave her fans and followers a tour of her renovated house during which she complained about feeling out of breath even while speaking. “Main kuch bolti hun bhi…meri saans chad jaati thi. Toh aisa hota hai kya?” she asked on her YouTube podcast.
Adding that she is looking forward to welcoming her baby next Diwali, an excited Bharti continued, “Agli Diwali, ek aur bachcha hamare ghar par hoga. Excited toh bahut hun. Lekin agar pyaari si bitiya hogi toh lehenga pehenakar bithaungi usko. Kuch bhi ho, par healthy ho. Beti ho toh mazza aajaye. (Next Diwali, there will be another kid. I am quite excited. If we are blessed with a daughter, it will be even more special. I will make her wear a lehenga. All I all I want is a healthy child, but a daughter will be fun.”
Do pregnant women often feel out of breath?
According to Dr Richa Bharadwaj, consultant, obstetrics and gynaecology, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, it’s “quite common and usually nothing to worry about”.
“As pregnancy progresses, your body works overtime to support the growing baby. The hormone progesterone increases, which makes your brain signal you to breathe more often. At the same time, as the uterus expands, it pushes against the diaphragm, leaving your lungs with slightly less space to expand. So, even normal activities like talking, climbing stairs, or walking can make you feel breathless,” added Dr Bharadwaj.
So, when should shortness of breath be a concern?
Occasional breathlessness is normal, but if it’s sudden, severe, or comes with symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, or bluish lips or fingertips, that’s a red flag, cautioned Dr Bharadwaj. “In such cases, you must contact your doctor right away. Sometimes, it could indicate an underlying issue like anaemia, a respiratory infection, or, rarely, a blood clot in the lungs, all of which need medical attention,” she continued.
What can expectant mothers do to manage breathlessness?
Good posture goes a long way. Dr Bharadwaj shared that sitting or standing straight helps your lungs expand better. “Sleeping slightly propped up, especially during the third trimester, also eases breathing. Try slow, deep breathing exercises; they calm both you and the baby. Avoid lying flat right after eating, since a full stomach can press more on the diaphragm,” said Dr Bharadwaj.
Here’s what helps (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
Can exercise or fitness routines help?
Absolutely, affirmed Dr Bharadwaj. Regular, moderate exercise like prenatal yoga or walking can improve lung capacity and circulation. “But always check with your doctor before starting anything new. The goal is to stay active without overexerting yourself,” said Dr Bharadwaj.
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Any quick takeaway for mothers-to-be?
Listen to your body.
“A little breathlessness is a normal part of pregnancy, but persistent or worsening symptoms deserve attention. Breathe easy literally and don’t hesitate to reach out for help when something feels off,” said Dr Bharadwaj.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
