Shortness of Breath in Pregnancy: Causes and Tips
Feeling breathless during pregnancy? Learn the common causes of shortness of breath, when it’s normal, and when to seek medical help. Discover simple tips to breathe easier and stay safe.
Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 24th Aug, 2025
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can also bring some unexpected challenges, one of them being shortness of breath. If you've been feeling like you can't take a deep breath or need to pause while climbing stairs, don’t worry—you're not alone! Many expecting mothers experience this, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.
In this article, we’ll discuss why this happens, when it’s normal, and when you should seek medical advice. We’ll also share some easy tips to help you breathe more comfortably.
Why Do Pregnant Women Experience Shortness of Breath?
Your body goes through many changes during pregnancy, and some of them affect your breathing. Here are the main reasons why you might feel breathless:
1. Hormonal Changes
The hormone progesterone increases during pregnancy, making you breathe faster and feel like you need more air.
This is your body’s way of ensuring your baby gets enough oxygen.
2. Growing Uterus Pressing on the Lungs
As your baby grows, your uterus expands and pushes upward against your diaphragm (the muscle below your lungs).
This makes it harder for your lungs to expand fully, especially in the third trimester.
3. Increased Blood Volume
Your body produces more blood to support your baby, which means your heart has to work harder.
This can sometimes make you feel like you’re out of breath, even with mild activity.
4. Reduced Lung Capacity
In late pregnancy, your lungs have less space to expand, making deep breaths difficult.
5. Anaemia (Low Iron Levels)
If you have iron-deficiency anaemia, your body struggles to carry enough oxygen, leading to fatigue and breathlessness.
When Is Shortness of Breath Normal vs. When to Worry?
Most of the time, mild breathlessness is normal in pregnancy. However, you should consult your doctor if you experience:
Sudden or severe shortness of breath
Chest pain or tightness
Fast or irregular heartbeat
Wheezing or coughing up blood
Bluish lips or fingers (sign of low oxygen)
Dizziness or fainting
These could be signs of a more serious condition like asthma, blood clots (pulmonary embolism), or preeclampsia, which need immediate medical attention.
Consult Top Gynaecologists
Helpful Tips to Manage Shortness of Breath During Pregnancy
While you can’t completely prevent breathlessness, these simple tips can help you feel more comfortable:
1. Practice Good Posture
Sit or stand straight to give your lungs more room to expand.
Avoid slouching, especially when sitting for long periods.
2. Take It Slow
Don’t rush—pace yourself while walking or climbing stairs.
If you feel breathless, stop and rest until you recover.
3. Sleep in a Comfortable Position
Use extra pillows to prop yourself up slightly while sleeping.
Sleeping on your left side improves blood flow and breathing.
4. Try Breathing Exercises
Deep breathing: Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, then exhale through your mouth.
Pursed-lip breathing: Breathe in through your nose, then slowly exhale through pursed lips (like blowing out a candle). This helps control breathing.
5. Stay Active (But Don’t Overdo It)
Light exercises like walking, prenatal yoga, or swimming can improve lung capacity.
Avoid overexertion—listen to your body and take breaks.
6. Eat Small, Frequent Meals
Large meals can push against your diaphragm, making breathing harder.
Opt for smaller, balanced meals throughout the day.
7. Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water helps thin mucus and keeps airways clear.
8. Avoid Triggers
Stay away from smoke, pollution, and strong perfumes, which can worsen breathing difficulties.
9. Get Enough Iron
If you're anaemic, eat iron-rich foods (spinach, lentils, lean meats) or take supplements as prescribed.
When Will It Get Better?
In the third trimester, shortness of breath may increase as your baby grows.
After delivery, your breathing should return to normal within a few weeks as your uterus shrinks and hormones stabilise.
When to See a Doctor?
If your breathlessness is severe, sudden, or accompanied by other worrying symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical help.
At Apollo 24|7, you can:
Consult a doctor online for personalised advice.
Book lab tests to check for anaemia or other conditions.
Get expert guidance on managing pregnancy discomforts.
Final Thoughts
Shortness of breath in pregnancy is common and usually harmless, but it’s important to listen to your body. With simple adjustments like better posture, breathing exercises, and staying hydrated, you can manage it effectively.
If you ever feel unsure, reach out to your doctor—they’re there to help you have a safe and healthy pregnancy!
Consult Top Gynaecologists
Consult Top Gynaecologists
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