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Published on: 4/7/2025

What Could Cause Sudden Extreme Fatigue and Body Aches During Pregnancy?

Sudden extreme fatigue and body aches during pregnancy can happen because of normal changes like hormonal shifts and muscle adjustments, but they may also signal issues like anemia or another underlying condition.

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Explanation

During pregnancy, feeling more tired than normal is common as your body works hard to support your growing baby. Hormonal changes can make you feel exhausted, and as your body changes, you might notice more aches in your muscles and joints. These everyday changes can sometimes cause discomfort. However, when fatigue and body aches become sudden and extreme, it’s important to consider other possibilities and talk to a doctor. For example, anemia, where you don’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen efficiently, can lead to severe fatigue and body aches. Other health issues, such as infections, thyroid problems, or even rare complications, could also be involved. If your symptoms come on quickly and are very severe—especially if they are accompanied by other signs like shortness of breath, dizziness, or chest pain—it is important to contact your healthcare provider. They can check your blood work and perform other tests to find out the cause and help you get the right care. Always share any significant changes in how you feel so you can get help early and keep you and your baby safe.

(References)

  • Poole CJ. Fatigue during the first trimester of pregnancy. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 1986 Sep-Oct;15(5):375-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1552-6909.1986.tb01409.x. PMID: 3639925.

  • Quigley J, Keating A, Byrd L. Fatigue and breathlessness in pregnancy: a rare and sinister cause. BMJ Case Rep. 2014 Oct 16;2014:bcr2014205441. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2014-205441. PMID: 25323281; PMCID: PMC4202050.

  • Kesikburun S, Güzelküçük Ü, Fidan U, Demir Y, Ergün A, Tan AK. Musculoskeletal pain and symptoms in pregnancy: a descriptive study. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis. 2018 Nov 19;10(12):229-234. doi: 10.1177/1759720X18812449. PMID: 30515249; PMCID: PMC6262502.

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