Locations:
SearchThe short answer from a balance disorders specialist
Image content: This image is available to view online.
View image online (https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/4ff27c12-416a-4b65-b7e4-a673421dcd41/dizzyPregnancy-1129150323-770x553_jpg)
Pregnant woman suffering from a dizzy spell
Oh hormones. Those feisty, relentless and crucial little substances in our body that influence how we function. Sometimes our hormones run smoothly without us even noticing and other times they seem to take over control.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
This is especially true of pregnancy hormones and why they sometimes get a bad rep – causing mood swings, changes to your metabolism and feeling dizzy or like the room is spinning around you.
During pregnancy, your blood flow increases to your baby and is slower to return to you in your veins. Add this with changes in position – like standing for too long, lying down or quick movements – and you may be more susceptible to feeling dizzy or lightheaded during pregnancy.
Sometimes, also with hormonal changes, one of the other culprits for causing vertigo is an underlying history of migraines. If you’re more susceptible to migraines, the change in pregnancy hormones could trigger one, and vertigo could be a secondary symptom of it.
The biggest reason for vertigo or dizziness in pregnancy? Hormonal changes.
– Audiologist Julie Honaker, PhD.
Advertisement
Sign up for our Health Essentials emails for expert guidance on nutrition, fitness, sleep, skin care and more.
Learn more about our editorial process.
Advertisement
Most rashes aren’t dangerous — but it’s worth talking to your pregnancy provider about them
The best available evidence indicates that, used correctly, acetaminophen is safe to take throughout a pregnancy
Prenatal massage, done properly, is a safe and effective way to lower stress and relieve pregnancy discomforts
Avoid high-mercury fish and processed meat, and go easy on salt and caffeine
Unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise, it’s typically considered safe to have sex during pregnancy
Hot tubs and saunas raise your body temperature and can pose risks
Baths can be safe if you turn down the temp, avoid irritating bath products and take extra precautions against
SSRIs are the safest antidepressants to take in pregnancy — and pose less risk than unmanaged depression
Prioritize your health by managing stress, strengthening your social connections and getting quality sleep
Bolsters, blankets, pillows and blocks can offer extra support, stability and comfort
Allergies, postnasal drip, asthma or reflux could be to blame for a cough that won’t quit
