Energy Crisis

Information presented in the pregnancy literature can be confusing. It's common to find conflicting advice about the baby’s development and various pregnancy related symptoms. But, there’s one topic they all agree upon. The second trimester is filled with energy (!):

• "Many women take advantage of the increased energy levels in the second trimester…."
• "the second trimester is the easiest. For most, nausea has subsided and energy level is high"
• "You are now entering your second trimester. Your energy level should increase …"

Quite frankly - and I'm feeling frank - it’s all a bunch of bull. I am in the midst of an energy crisis the likes of which haven’t been seen since the gas lines of the 70’s. Sure, I don’t feel the same levels of exhaustion that came in the first trimester. I can actually get my butt off the couch during the day. But I sure don’t have loads of energy and a feeling like I can take on the world; and I’m nowhere near the same energy levels I had pre-pregnancy.

Mornings are pretty good and I tend to get a lot done. Afternoons come with less energy, but overall I can stay on top of things. But by evening – say sometime around 6:00 or 7:00 – I hit a wall. That’s when complete and utter exhaustion sets in. Because weekend work involves more physical activity, things are worse. I’m pretty much down for the count by 4:00 or 5:00. I can keep going to 6:00 if I push myself, but I pay for it the next day.

So what’s up with this mythic second trimester energy boon so vastly touted in the literature? I think it’s some nasty psychological trick. A scheme designed by the medical community to help keep 2nd trimester OB appointments short and complaint free. A "power of suggestion" thing designed to keep those of us with growing bellies quiet during our 2nd trimester checkups. I think it's a bit like telling women that labor feels like “intense pressure". If we’re told we’re a bunch of 2nd trimester energizer bunnies we’ll certainly believe it. Right??

I much prefer the info I get from some of the Moms I work with who tell me “Energy? Yeah. Well, that’s pretty much over now. You’ll never get it back.” Daunting advice, but at least it’s honest.

The good news is that next week (Thursday, to be exact) starts the infamous 3rd trimester where, apparently, a pregnant woman has ever right to be tired. Ah, the freedom it will bring!

Check back again tomorrow (yes, tomorrow!) for another post update...