Pregnancy & Baby 

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Shortness of breath in early pregnancy

Some pregnant women do experience the feeling that they cannot catch a deep breath. This is caused by the relaxing effect of progesterone on the diaphragm and upon the accessory (helper) muscles of respiration. While it is unclear why some women experience this more acutely than others, it is a fairly common occurrence. Typically, it subsides in the first half of pregnancy.

In an otherwise healthy woman, low blood pressure is rarely a concern in pregnancy. It can account for some dizziness, especially when changing positions. Moving slowly to a standing position or doing some leg movements or isometric exercises before changing from a lying or sitting position to a standing position may be helpful.

I'm assuming that all heart and respiratory problems have been ruled out. Conditions such as these could also have this effect.

I hope this annoying symptom is short lived. I wish you the best during your pregnancy.

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