Sleep Issues Are Common During Pregnancy – Tips on How to Sleep When Pregnant
During pregnancy, women struggle to find the most comfortable position before falling asleep. When you are pregnant, your body goes through many changes, including causing irregular sleep, making it hard for you to find regular sleeping positions. A lot of recommendations are given to you from your doctor, but it seems like it’s impossible to consider them, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy. Sleeping on your side appears to be safer for the baby, but how do you feel? Many women become anxious and depressed because they can’t rest at night nor during the day. Researchers have found that sleeping on your back while pregnant is reliable. Let’s see some of the reasons why your sleeping positions no longer work for you.
Best sleeping positions
“SOS” (sleep on side) is the best position for pregnant women. Why is this reliable? Because when you sleep on the side (left one most preferable), you allow your blood and nutrients to reach the placenta and your baby. Use a pillow between your legs will keep your knees bent, helping you relieve stress and enjoy your sleep. Back pain is also a common issue for pregnant women. Use the SOS position and even place a pillow under your tummy to make yourself comfortable. During pregnancy, you might experience shortness of breath, so it’s not recommended to sleep on your back, as this will cause you to wake up many times during the night. These might not be the most comfortable suggestions, but it’s worth trying them out. They might work for you. Also, keep in mind that the mattresses and pillows you use have a lot to do with your sleep quality. To experience an excellent nightly sleep while pregnant, make sure you use the best mattress and pillow.
What sleeping positions to avoid?
Ever since you’re pregnant, your body seems to experience many problems that cause insomnia, back pain, heartburn, shortness of breath, and other complications. Trying to find the right position to sleep seems impossible, but maybe avoiding these sleeping positions might help you avoid putting pressure on your fetus.
Steps to sleep better while pregnant
Sleeping helps your body recover and it’s more important than ever to get quality sleep while pregnant. That said, consider these steps to sleeping better during your pregnancy:
- Drink a lot of water throughout the day.
- Exercise for thirty minutes; it’ll help you sleep better. (But avoid powerful workouts)
- Use relaxing techniques, such as a warm bath, or a massage.
- Limit caffeine, or don’t drink at all. Instead, consume tea.
- Create a peaceful environment in your bedroom. Keep a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, it’ll help you fall asleep faster.
- Do not consume unhealthy meals, no matter the time of the day.
The vast majority of pregnant women have problems sleeping, so try not to stress out too much and use the strategies above to get the right amount of sleep. If you lack sleep, it’s best to talk to your healthcare specialist. They can help you solve your problem and finally get the rest needed.