Early Pregnancy Symptoms - Dizziness/ Fainting
Dizziness and fainting spells are common early pregnancy symptoms. Because pregnancy affects the sense of taste and smell, lots of pregnant women unintentionally avoid food and skip meals. This causes low blood sugar levels which can lead to dizzy spells and fainting.
Blood pressure changes can also lead to feelings of faintness or dizziness and this is something that your primary caregivers will want to monitor throughout your pregnancy. Even women with no previous history of blood pressure problems can find their blood pressure gets higher or lower during pregnancy and it is very important that this is monitored.
If you are standing for a long period of time the increased pressure of the uterus pressing on major arteries in your legs can lead to a drop in blood pressure which can also make you feel dizzy or faint.
Try to avoid standing for long periods of time and if you do feel unsteady, sit or lie down. It can help to raise your feet above the level of your heart by placing them raised up on a cushion or pillow if you are lying down. Alternatively, if sitting, lean forward carefully and place your head between your legs. Take slow deep breaths until the sensation passes and be careful when getting up again. Take things slowly!
If you find you are suffering frequently from faintness, make sure you let your doctor know so that your blood and blood pressure can be tested. Low iron levels resulting in anaemia can cause pregnant women to feel weak and faint. If your blood levels of iron or ferritin are low it can be easily treated with iron supplements and basic dietary changes.
