With every passing week, a pregnant woman experiences new bodily changes. Some are normal, but others may require medical attention. It is important that a woman be comfortable contacting her medical-care provider to ask questions, even about seemingly small bodily changes. Dizziness can occur for a number of reasons in pregnancy, and some require medical intervention, such as monitoring and medication.
Hypotension
Hypotension is a health condition characterized by low blood pressure. This can occur in pregnancy due to the greater volume of blood found in the body. The Mayo Clinic also explains that the blood vessels dilate because of pregnancy hormones and until the blood volume actually expands to fill them, the blood pressure can temporarily drop. The heart will have to work harder to pump the extra blood once it develops, which can also cause temporary drops in pressure.
Supine Hypotension
The American Pregnancy Association describes supine hypotension as a temporary condition that occurs when a pregnant woman lies on her back. The uterus puts pressure on major blood vessels in the body, making it more difficult for the blood to circulate. Women are often told to avoid lying flat on the back, especially after the 20th week of pregnancy, to prevent the condition. Women may notice tingling, dizziness, numbness or a sensation of not being able to breathe while resting flat on the back.
Postural Hypotension
Postural hypotension occurs when a woman rises too quickly from a sitting, squatting or kneeling position. The American Pregnancy Association explains that gravity causes the blood pressure to drop, which leads to feeling dizzy. This temporary problem can be resolved by taking more time to rise.
Low Blood Sugar
The saying "eating for two" gets thrown around often during pregnancy. The woman's body truly is burning more calories and requires more energy while nourishing and developing the baby. This often means eating a few hundred extra calories per day. When a woman has not eaten enough or has gone too long between meals or snacks, she may experience dizziness from a drop in blood sugar. The American Pregnancy Association points out that the woman's body is also adjusting to her new pregnancy metabolism, which can result in dizziness.
Anemia
Women who have anemia or varicose veins may be more susceptible to dizziness during pregnancy, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Women with severe anemia may have headaches and blurred vision. This is a medical concern and should be reported to a health-care provider right away.
