Dizziness and faintness during pregnancy is normal. It is more common in the first trimester, although it may persist throughout the whole pregnancy.

What causes dizziness during pregnancy ?

Rising hormonal levels during pregnancy cause blood vessels to relax and widen. These increase blood flow to your baby but also slow down return of the blood to the veins. As a result , blood pressure is lower than normal and blood flow to the brain is reduced causing dizziness.

Low blood sugar levels during pregnancy can also cause dizziness. Your blood sugar level may drop as your body adapts to your changes in metabolism. Women who are anemic or have varicose veins are at increased risk of dizziness.

Dizziness during the second trimester may also be due to the increasing  size of your uterus putting pressure on your blood vessels.

Lying on your back during the latter parts of pregnancy can also cause dizziness. Lying on your back allows the weight of the baby to press on the large vein ( the vena cava ) that carries blood from your lower body to your heart.

How can I prevent dizziness during pregnancy ?

Here are some tips to reduce dizziness during pregnancy.

•  eat regularly. It is better to eat small meals throughout the day than to have a large break in between meals
• get up slowly form sitting or lying down
• avoid standing for long periods. if you need to be standing, keep your legs moving to increase circulation
• avoid hot showers and baths
• wear comfortable cloths that are loose  to avoid restricting circulation

What should I do if  I feel faint ?

Here are some helpful tips that may help if you feel you are about to faint.

• take deep breaths
• sit or lie down and lower your head
• open the  window and move towards circulating air
• eat iron rich foods
• loosen any tight-fitting clothing

When should I call my doctor ?

Call your doctor if dizziness is accompanied by symptoms such as vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain. This could be a sign of ectopic pregnancy, placenta  previa or placenta abruption.