As you grow larger, finding comfortable positions
can become a problem. Don't lie on your back when
you sleep. This position can place the uterus on top
of important blood vessels (the aorta and inferior
vena cava) that run down the back of your abdomen.
This can decrease circulation to your baby and parts
of your body. Some pregnant women also face breathing
problems when lying on their backs. Lying on your
stomach puts additional pressure on your growing uterus.
This is the reason to learn to sleep on your side.
So, start now to learn to sleep on your side; it will
pay off later as you become bigger. Sometimes it helps
to put extra pillows. Put one behind you so you won't
roll onto your back and lie sleeping on your back;
another between your legs or rest your top leg on
a pillow. There are special pregnancy pillows that
support your entire body in the market as well.
Getting a good night's sleep
Sleeping soundly may be difficult for you now or later
in pregnancy. Some suggestions below might help:
• Go to bed and wake up at the same time each
day
• Don't drink too much fluid at night. Slow
down after 6 pm so you don't have to visit the bathroom
all night long
• Avoid caffeine after late afternoon
• Get regular exercise
• Sleep in a cool bedroom; 21.1 C is ideal
• If you have heartburn problems, sleep propped
up
You may experience shortness of breath due to enlarged
abdomen and this will interfere with your sleep. Try
lying on your left side. Prop up your head and shoulders
on extra pillows. Light exercise and warm showers
or soaks may also help. A glass of warm milk may do
the trick or if none of these work, try sleeping partially
sitting up in a recliner.
More
on Sleeping Positions during pregnancy
