Is Extreme Breathlessness in Pregnancy Normal?

Question

Am almost 28 weeks pregnant and for the past week have been finding it really hard to breathe - not just when active, even when I am just sitting down watching TV. Lying down doesn't always alleviate the feeling and it can be quite scary when it goes on for the better part of an hour. It causes dizziness if I am standing and I have nearly passed out several times. I have three small children and worry that if I do actually collapse something bad could happen to them.

For those who have said go see midwives or hospital. I have had other issues in this pregnancy (ie bleeding) and I have gotten to the point where I am reluctant to mention things because when they can't find a reason behind my problem I am made to feel like I have been wasting people's time or just get told 'it's part of being pregnant'. Plus it's actually very hard to get hold of my midwives, all I ever seem to get is an answer machine message when I call.

Answer 1

Extreme breathlessness isn't normal. If it's only been for a short time, it could be that the baby is lying in an awkward position but you really need to see a doctor or midwife to get checked. Our hospital has a day clinic run by a very experienced midwife for this sort of thing. I should try giving yours a ring, or see your doctor.

Answer 2

Breathlessness In Pregnancy

Answer 3

Hi dear,from what you've written i'm assuming that this is your fourth pregnancy.At 28 weeks you feeling breathless/dizzy can mean many things...first of all it could be anaemia as another wellwisher pointed out....anaemia in pregnancy can cause headaches,dizziness due to postural hypotension(low blood pressure),palpitations,breathlessness and muscle cramps to name a few.
At 28 weeks if you have a big baby,it could cause cardio-respiratory difficulty by its sheer pressure.This is normal.
If you have experienced chest discomfort/chest pain...it could mean something more alarming like pulmonary embolism(bloodclots in lungs).If this is the case...pls see your doctor now!
Call your midwife...she may check your BP,do some bloods which will put you at ease.
Also let some friend/relative or neighbour know of this situation and try to find a way to keep the little ones safe!

Answer 4

Breathlessness increases as the baby crowds the lungs but at 28 weeks, it's a bit early for that unless you're having multiples. And what you are describing doesn't sound right. If I were you, I'd check with the doctor to make sure you're not having fluid retention or some kind of pulmonary distress. Having a quick check-up will ease your mind. Could it be a case of nerves causing you to hyperventilate? You need a blood pressure check too. GOOD LUCK with a new sweet baby on the way.

Answer 5

I didnt' have it that bad, although I did almost pass out from dizzyness. THe baby may be on your lungs (like pressing on them). See about repositioning him with some yoga or something (if you can manage it). Also, I would call a doctor or health link line

Answer 6

Some breathlessness is normal, but if it is to the point of making you dizzy and you have almost passeed out, you need to call your Dr.

Answer 7

I was like that during all my pregnancies, Dr said its pretty common, because the baby's pressing on you lungs. I know, it's unbearable!

Answer 8

Go see doc immediatly...dont leave it. Hope all ok


Hey who cares what they think...mum knows best..if you dont feel right the only person that can look at for your baby right now is You...dont feel bad about it its your natural instinct to protect your baby.xx

Answer 9

What isn't normal is you asking a serious question like this on a forum, can you not phone your midwife to get PROPER ADVICE, I cant believe people sometimes

Answer 10

If i were you darlin id be going straight up the Hospital not a good sign please go get checked you need your health for bub's sake