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Breathlessness At times, I can't breathe. Is this due to pregnancy Yes, especially as pregnancy advances.
Hormones activated by pregnancy swell the capillaries of the respiratory
tract and relax the muscles of the lungs and bronchial tubes. Furthermore,
the growing uterus also pushes up against the diaphragm, and makes it difficult
for the lungs to expand fully. This leads to breathlessness. But if the
breathlessness increases in severity, you require immediate medical attention.
When I have difficulty breathing, does my baby get enough oxygen Studies have shown that women actually allow more oxygen into their systems and even use it more efficiently than normal during pregnancy. However, because the growing uterus is crowding the lungs, you feel a shortness of breath. Approximately, 2 or 3 weeks before delivery, when the foetus settles into the pelvis (also called "lightening" or "dropping"), you would be able to breathe more easily. Until then, sleep in a semi-propped position and do not slump when sitting. Rest as much as you can. Your baby will be fine. However, if your shortness of breath is severe, do consult your doctor.
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