Your Pregnancy, Week 17

It's not unusual for pregnant women to feel dizzy or lightheaded. Your body adds about 50 percent extra blood volume during pregnancy. This is to meet the needs of your baby’s circulation.

You may feel lightheaded or have dizzy spells if you get up quickly from a sitting position. You may also have them if you stand for long periods of time. This is because the extra fluid collects in your lower body away from your brain. Tell your healthcare provider if you have dizzy spells or if you faint. While they’re common, it's always a good idea to have these symptoms checked out.