Breathing difficulties during the ninth month of pregnancy are a phenomenon experienced by up to ¾ of expectant mothers throughout the entire gestation period. Some women may even encounter this issue as early as the third or fourth month. So, is it dangerous to experience difficulty breathing during the ninth month of pregnancy, and how can it be addressed?
The reasons behind breathing difficulties during the ninth month of pregnancy
During pregnancy, expectant mothers often face various symptoms. Among them, the occurrence of breathing difficulties during the gestation period is a challenging issue to avoid, especially as one enters the final stages of the journey.
Experts suggest that the rapid changes in hormone levels in the body contribute to this discomfort. Specifically, as the baby forms and develops in the mother’s womb, a hormone called Progesterone increases. This hormone affects the mother’s lungs, sometimes causing a feeling of breathlessness or rapid breathing.
Therefore, expectant mothers can rest assured that experiencing difficulty breathing during the later months of pregnancy is a perfectly normal symptom. In addition to the evident reason mentioned above, difficulty breathing in the ninth month of pregnancy can also stem from other factors such as:
The Development of the Uterus Size in Pregnant Women
The ninth month of pregnancy is when the baby undergoes significant growth, continuing to absorb nutrients from the mother to gain weight rapidly. As the baby grows each day, the uterus, which serves as the baby’s nest, needs to expand to provide enough living space.
The expansion of the uterus exerts pressure on the diaphragm, a vital organ responsible for bringing air into the lungs. As a result, pregnant women often experience sudden and short bouts of breathlessness.
In some cases, healthy and overly active fetuses may deliver strong kicks, causing the uterus to change size and increasingly compress the diaphragm. In such situations, pregnant women may even faint due to insufficient air reaching the lungs.
Anemia causing breathlessness in the ninth month of pregnancy
Anemia is a condition that affects most pregnant women at various points during their pregnancy. If an expectant mother does not intake sufficient iron needed for the body during pregnancy, the risk of developing anemia is high.
If anemia is not controlled and improved in a timely manner, it can lead to frequent fatigue, blurred vision, and difficulty breathing. Therefore, if a doctor diagnoses iron deficiency in pregnant women, prompt supplementation with iron-rich pills or foods containing this component is recommended.
Underlying health conditions in mothers
Furthermore, the difficulty in breathing during the later months of pregnancy may also be attributed to underlying health factors, such as:
- Asthma: Pregnancy can exacerbate symptoms of asthma, making the condition more severe. If a woman has asthma, it is crucial to consult with a doctor during prenatal check-ups for guidance on medication usage.
- Cardiac issues: This refers to conditions of heart failure that may arise during pregnancy or postpartum. Visible symptoms include difficulty breathing, chest tightness, fatigue, rapid heartbeat, and swelling in the ankles.
- Pulmonary embolism: This is a condition where one or more blood clots become lodged in the arteries of the lungs. It can affect a mother’s respiratory function, causing chest pain and difficulty breathing.
Does Difficulty Breathing in the Late Pregnancy Affect the Fetus?
Although experiencing difficulty breathing in the late stages of pregnancy can cause significant concern for mothers, fortunately, in most cases, it does not adversely affect the baby. When facing breathlessness, mothers should make an effort to take deep breaths, allowing the oxygen intake to linger in the lungs for a longer duration, ensuring an adequate oxygen supply for both mother and baby.
In some instances where a pregnant woman struggles to breathe due to an underlying medical condition, seeking prompt medical attention at specialized healthcare units is crucial. Delaying medical intervention can potentially have negative impacts on the pregnancy.
There are certain signs that mothers should pay attention to, indicating potential respiratory distress:
- Increased heart rate.
- Rapid and forceful chest palpitations.
- Dizziness or fainting.
- Feeling of chest tightness.
- Bluish discoloration of lips, fingertips, or toes.
- Persistent, unrelieved coughing, possibly with the presence of blood.
- High fever accompanied by chills.
- History of asthma in the pregnant woman.
These symptoms should be promptly addressed through medical consultation to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.
Read more: Menstrual Headaches and Nausea
Tips to Help Ease Discomfort for Pregnant Women in the Last Trimester
The condition of difficulty breathing during pregnancy may persist until childbirth, making mothers feel uncomfortable, fatigued, and experience disrupted sleep. So, what can expectant mothers do in the ninth month of pregnancy to feel healthier and alleviate the sensation of breathlessness?
Let’s explore some practical tips to reduce breathlessness during the 3rd, 5th, and 9th months of pregnancy:
Adjust Sleeping Positions
Many women have the habit of sleeping on their backs during pregnancy. However, in the final trimester, when the baby bump is prominent, experiencing breathlessness while lying down or sleeping becomes common.
In reality, pregnant women in the 9th month should avoid sleeping on their backs, as the entire weight of the fetus puts pressure on the mother’s body, affecting the spine, blood vessels, intestines, and more. This not only leads to various health issues and breathlessness but also impacts the blood supply to the baby.
Consider adopting a sideways sleeping position, especially leaning towards the left side, to ensure comfort and avoid affecting the baby. Using a small, low pillow to support the abdomen while sleeping can create a more comfortable and gentle feeling.
Exercise to Improve Breathing
Engaging in regular exercise is one of the most effective methods for pregnant women to maintain stable breathing. In the ninth month, mothers can consider prenatal yoga exercises designed for pre-birth preparation. These exercises not only help with breathing rhythm and reduce shortness of breath but also gently enhance muscle mobility in preparation for later stages.
During exercise, it is essential not to overexert or strain the body excessively. Opt for moderate workouts that make the body feel comfortable, and consult with a healthcare professional to receive advice on safe exercises.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Pregnancy is a journey that often brings about anxiety, especially for first-time mothers. Entering the ninth month of pregnancy, mothers can benefit from resting and relaxing the mind to alleviate discomfort.
Practice gentle breathing exercises, clear the mind of worries, and enjoy soothing music or watch a few movies. This approach can help mothers feel less uneasy when experiencing breathlessness.
A woman in her ninth month of pregnancy should move slowly.
Move Slowly
Exerting too much force during movement often leads to fatigue and breathlessness, which pregnant women may notice more prominently. Move slowly while walking and be mindful of reducing the workload on the heart and lungs.
Additionally, when experiencing breathlessness, try sitting up or standing, lift the chest, and tilt the head upward to alleviate pressure on the ribcage. This can make it easier for mothers to breathe.
In conclusion, this article has provided insights and practical solutions for addressing ‘difficulty breathing in the ninth month of pregnancy.’ Always listen to your body and communicate any unusual symptoms with a medical professional to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
John Alen was born in 1971 and is a doctor in the healthcare and psychology fields with many years of experience. He is currently working at easyhealthylive.com, a leading health and psychology blog. Having studied at Y1 National Medical University named after IM Sechenov, John Alen is using his knowledge and experience to help improve the physical and mental health of people in the United States.
