As your pregnancy advances, you may realize that sleeping on your stomach becomes more and more difficult as your baby and belly grows. Sleeping in certain positions when pregnant may increase your risk of certain ailments including backaches, heartburn and hemorrhoids, as well as impact your breathing and the amount of blood and nutrients sent to your baby.
Best Sleeping Position
Sleeping on your stomach is okay in the early stages of your pregnancy, since your uterus is still nestled in your abdomen and protected by your pubic bone. As your pregnancy progresses, however, you will notice that it is more difficult to sleep on your stomach and may find yourself sleeping in other positions. The American Pregnancy Association encourages women to get into the habit of sleeping on their left sides, as this helps ensure your baby receives the highest amount of nutrients and blood.
Sleeping Aids
For some women, switching from sleeping on your stomach to sleeping on your side may result in restless nights. Other complications that may ruin a good night's sleep include leg cramps, constipation and heartburn and the need to go pee frequently. There are many sleeping aid products, such as pregnancy pillows, that help reduce pressure, aches and pains as you move further along in your pregnancy, as well as help keep you from rolling onto your stomach. Talk to your doctor to determine which sleeping aids will work for you.
Sleeping Tips
Do not use over-the-counter sleeping aids when pregnant. Instead, get yourself into a regular routine. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Engage in a bedtime ritual, such as reading, drinking a cup of warm milk and honey or a bubble bath. Take a prenatal yoga class to help alleviate stress. Avoid caffeine, as well as rigorous exercise, before bed. If you can't fall asleep, get out of bed and do some light activity like light cleaning or watch TV. If possible, take frequent naps throughout the day to make up for lost sleep.
Sleeping Positions to Avoid
The American Pregnancy Association advises women not to sleep on their backs when pregnant. Sleeping on your back may result in a variety of ailments for you, as well as placing pressure on your major blood vessels, thus, reducing blood circulation and nutrients to your baby. Sleeping on your back may result in high or low blood pressure, problems with digestion, breathing problems and hemorrhoids. In some women, it may also cause sleep apnea, a condition that impacts your ability to breathe while sleeping.
