If you’re feeling tired during ovulation, there’s likely a good reason. Here’s why, and how to manage.
You’ve likely heard a lot about premenstrual (PMS) symptoms — or, more likely and unfortunately, have experienced them. Yet your body gives signs about your menstrual cycle outside of the infamous period cramps and mood swings . Around ovulation , you might experience a variety of symptoms as your body releases a mature egg into the fallopian tube. One of these symptoms is known as ovulation fatigue.
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But does ovulation truly make you tired? Why or why not? Here’s everything you need to know about ovulation fatigue, including causes, what it might feel like, and how to manage it.
What is ovulation fatigue? Ovulation fatigue is a feeling of tiredness or exhaustion some people experience around or during ovulation.
Ovulation typically occurs mid-cycle when your ovary releases a mature egg into the fallopian tube. Before ovulation, your luteinizing hormone (LH) increases rapidly (often called the LH surge ) and triggers the ovary to let go of the egg. The egg then goes down the fallopian tube, where it hopes it will be met by sperm for fertilization.
While ovulation only lasts about 12-48 hours, you may experience symptoms for a few days leading up to and after ovulation.
What does ovulation fatigue feel like? Ovulation fatigue feels like fatigue in other aspects of your life; you might feel low in energy and motivation, drowsy, or even mentally foggy. Ovulation fatigue varies in severity and length. While some people may not notice it, or chalk it up to normal, everyday fatigue, for some it can feel quite pronounced.
This fatigue is often accompanied by other symptoms like bloating, breast tenderness, and mood swings.
Does ovulation make you tired? Ovulation fatigue causes Yes, ovulation can make you tired! There are a few reasons why ovulation might make you tired, from hormonal changes within your body to responses from other symptoms.
Hormonal fluctuations: Around ovulation, your estrogen and progesterone levels are fluctuating a lot. Particularly, the rise in progesterone just after ovulation — which happens because the body is trying to prepare for a potential pregnancy — can affect your energy levels and contribute to feelings of fatigue.Mood swings: Some people experience mood swings or higher sensitivity around ovulation; this emotional choas can exacerbate fatigue during ovulation and make symptoms more noticeable. Increased stress: Ovulation can be a stressful period if you’re trying to conceive — that’s totally normal, although it can contribute to fatigue. The body’s response to stress hormones can interfere with sleep patterns and leave you feeling tired.Poor sleep quality: As hormones fluctuate, you may have more trouble falling and staying asleep, contributing to fatigue during the day.Increased metabolic rate: Some studies have shown that a person’s basal metabolic rate (BMR), or the number of calories your body needs to burn to function properly, fluctuates throughout the menstrual cycle. This rate is lowest after your period and about a week before ovulation. An increase in BMR can lead to feelings of fatigue. How to manage ovulation fatigue If ovulation does make you tired, how do you manage ovulation fatigue? There are a few lifestyle changes that can help you manage your body’s reaction to changing hormones and boost your energy.
Prioritize rest: While it may seem obvious, getting sleep can help decrease fatigue. During ovulation, listen to your body and be sure to rest when you need it. Prioritizing rest might mean taking short naps throughout the day or changing your bedtime.Maintain a health diet: Eating a balanced diet in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help sustain energy levels during ovulation. Avoiding excessive caffeine and sugar can prevent energy crashes.Stay hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate feelings of fatigue. Ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and maintain energy levels.Manage stress: Stress hormones can affect your ability to sleep well. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or gentle yoga to alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.Exercise regularly: Engaging in regular physical activity, whether that’s a brisk walk, swimming, or strength training, can boost energy levels and alleviate fatigue. However, avoid overexertion, especially if you're already feeling tired. Cycle syncing your workouts is a great way to understand what kinds of exercise are optimal for your body during specific parts of your cycle.Take supplements (with the guidance of a professional): Consider supplementing with vitamins and minerals that support energy production, such as B-complex vitamins, magnesium, and iron. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements.>>RELATED: 12 Fertility Vitamins to Fuel Your Body With When You’re Trying to Conceive
Does ovulation make you tired? The bottom line Yes, ovulation can make you tired. You might feel ovulation fatigue because your hormones are fluctuating or because other symptoms are arising that are indirectly contributing to fatigue (like mood swings and stress).
Ovulation fatigue is normal, and its severity can vary from person to person. Typically, this fatigue should resolve within a few days, and lifestyle changes can help you manage this fatigue and improve your overall well-being.
