Sleeping while pregnant isn’t easy. You might lose most of your sleeping time just because you couldn’t have a comfortable sleeping position. If before, you were a wild sleeper now you have to change all those positions not only for you but for your baby as well. Get to know the best and right sleeping position for pregnant women, while you’re still loaded up.
Best Sleeping Position in Pregnancy
Side sleeping or sleep on the side (SOS) is the best and safest position for pregnant women. It also helps you to sleep comfortably.
Left vs Right Side – Which one is better?
You might have a question on your mind, which sides is better? The left side is the best position recommended, as it improves overall circulation. It also gives nutrient-packed blood an easier route from heart to the placenta, in order to nourish your baby. Lying on the left side also help your liver from being pushed down too hard by your expanding tummy.
AVOID Sleeping in This Position
After you entered the 20th week of pregnancy, sleeping on your back is not really the best position. The pressure which is released from the vessels can slow blood circulation to your body and your baby as well.
Sleeping on your back puts extra pressure to the main artery (aorta) and vein (vena cava) inside your body. Both are the main blood vessels that run behind the uterus and carry blood back to your heart from legs and feet.
You might have difficulties to breathe while lying on this position. This position can lead to tummy trouble as your belly pushes down your intestines when you are lying on your back.
Sleeping on your stomach is also not recommended as you might press down the expanding uterus. It also will cause your breast to get swollen for not getting enough air or space. Aside from your stomach, your breast is also expanding during pregnancy. However, if you are comfortable enough to sleep in this position, worry not as it won’t harm the baby.
Something Helpful
You can follow the sleeping tips below if you are feeling any of the illness when you are pregnant.
- Belly and back support: Place a pillow under your tummy and also between your knees. You might have heard of a pregnancy pillow. It is better to sleep using the pregnancy pillow as you feel much more comfortable. Keeping a pillow under your tummy might prevent you from rolling to your back or stomach.
- Shortness of breath: Prop a pillow on your side to raise your chest, as it might reduce the push-down pressure to your chest that occurs while sleeping on the side.
- Heartburn: Prop yourself with a few pillows or try sleeping in a semi-upright position in a recliner instead of your bed. This helps to keep the acids down in your stomach rather than burning its way up to your oesophagus.
Don’t flap if you were aware of your position changes – from side to front, to back, and others while asleep. Leave your body to move on its own comfortable position if you are already asleep. Even though it is not as comfortable as when you are not pregnant, you better get a night of proper sleep now.
Once your baby is born, your sleeping pattern wouldn’t be the same as all your focus and attention will gear towards your newborn. Not to mention, the overnight cries and tantrums. Thus, try to follow these tips to get the best sleeping position when you are pregnant.
To get more info on pregnancy and parenting, or to get all the baby items for your soon-to-be-born baby, do visit our website, Motherhood.com.my. You will find everything that you need in just one touch!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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