03/06/2024
The best sleep position during pregnancy is sleep on side because it provides the best circulation for you and your baby
However do not get scared if you wake up and find yourself sleeping in another position. Change your position as soon as you realise it
This applies after 28 weeks, however it is always advised to sleep on the left early on to make your body used to this position. Left lying is preferred over right sided lying due to several factors such as:
👉Best circulation to baby - Increases amount of blood and nutrients reaching placenta and your baby
👉Least pressure on your veins and internal organs - Reducing potential swelling, varicose veins and haemorrhoids
Problems with sleeping in other positions
Sleeping on your back
👉 Causes problems with backaches, breathing, the digestive system, hemorrhoids, low blood pressure and cause a decrease in circulation to your heart and your baby.
👉 This is a result of your growing abdomen resting on your intestines and major blood vessels (the aorta and vena cava). You can also develop sleep apnea as you put on weight.
Sleeping on your stomach
👉 When you are farther along in your pregnancy, your breasts become more tender and your abdomen continues to grow, both making sleeping on your tummy uncomfortable
Reasons for your discomfort may include:
* Increased size of the abdomen
* Back pain
* Heartburn
* Shortness of breath
* Insomnia
Steps to Sleeping Better While Pregnant
* Limit caffeine. Try not to drink coffee or caffeinated tea after 3 p.m.
* Brink plenty of water. Drink lot of water through out the day, but limit intake a couple of hours before bedtime so you don’t have to wake up and go to the bathroom.
* Exercise for 30 minutes. Exercise helps you sleep better, but don’t exercise within four hours of bedtime.
* Relaxing activities. A warm bath, foot or shoulder massage
* Peaceful bedroom. Keeping your bedroom dark, quiet and cool at night will help to drift off to sleep and stay asleep