Not all women will experience the fatigue of early pregnancy but many will find that they suddenly have a desire to take naps during the day, even if they never do this normally. Indeed, some women may feel the need to take naps before they even know they are pregnant.
In these early weeks, the body may not visually look like it is undergoing a huge change, but pregnancy does immediately start to make new demands on your body, and if napping works - go with the flow!
As your pregnancy progresses, some women feel more energised, but this is not a true experience for many mothers-to-be.
Worrying about the growing baby, fears of the experience of birth or simply your mind not swtiching off when it is sifting through images of what life will be like when the baby arrives - these can all affect your sleep long before the physical discomfort of nighttimes with a big bump.
For more about getting a comfortable night's sleep, click here.
Although old wives' sayings will have it that you feel tired in the first trimester and blooming by the last trimester, this isn't neccessarily the case.
The weight of your growing bump will inevitably take its toll and tiredness, as well as swollen ankles, are a simple message to rest up. Don't feel guilty about sitting (well supported) with your feet raised and taking it easy in the evenings and, if you can, for a break during the day. You're not being lazy - you have some tough jobs ahead of you!
Make sure you keep up your intake of water and always have a small snack with you in case you feel drained because you haven't eaten.
If you still feel constantly tired, talk to your GP or midwife at your next check-up. By about the seventh month you may find your iron levels have been depleted, and if there are other signs of possible anaemia, your doctor may want you to have a blood test to rule this out. If you do have anaemia, the doctors can treat this safely. For more about anaemia and iron intake in pregnancy, click here.
