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Ask A Childbirth Educator
Questions and Answer

Q. I'm about 8 weeks pregnant. Every time I lye down it feels like I'm falling. Is vertigo common in pregnancy? Also my ears are always popping.

A. There are a lot of physical changes in pregnancy that can cause dizziness/ vertigo. Try changing positions more slowly and remember to eat small frequent meals to prevent low blood sugar. Sometimes lying down in a dark room with a cold cloth on your forehead may help. Just to be safe it is a good idea to let your caregiver know--so they can rule out an inner-ear infection or any other problem. Most likely it is just your body adjusting, but it is always best to be on the safe side.

Karen Klimsak-Ungar, CCE has been a certified childbirth educator for Birth Works® since 1996. She is currently Managing Editor for the Birth Works newsletter, sits on the Birth Works Board of Directors, and serves on their National Trainee Review Committee. A happily married mother of two, she also continues to teach Birth Works classes as well as private classes.

Karen will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.