When you’re pregnant, there’s a lot of things your doctors and loved ones advise you on and against.
You’re expected to eat clean, bulk up on your nutrients, work out and steer clear of unhealthy lifestyle habits.
Furthermore, you need a good night’s sleep, which can be difficult to attain during this time.
Especially if you are someone who usually likes sleeping on their stomach, it may not be the best idea now that you’re pregnant and have a baby bump.
Thus, let us find out all about comfortable sleeping positions for pregnant women.
Which is the best side to sleep on when you’re pregnant
During pregnancy, most doctors advise women to sleep on their left side with their knees bent. It is said to be one of the most comfortable and “ideal” positions to sleep. Since the liver is located on the right side of the abdomen, lying on the left side takes the pressure off of the large organ, making it easier for it to function.
Additionally, sleeping on the left side improves blood circulation to the heart and allows optimal blood flow to the fetus, uterus, kidneys and inferior vena cava, which is the largest vein in the human body, located at the posterior abdominal wall on the right side of the aorta.
However, there’s no wrong in changing sleeping positions. You can accidentally lay on your back or on your right side and that is alright unless you’re comfortable. But it is most likely that during your third and the last trimester, you won’t sleep on your back, since it won’t be too comfortable.
Sleeping positions to avoid
Some experts warn pregnant women against sleeping on their backs during the second and third trimesters. This is because the back-sleeping position puts the entire weight of the uterus and the baby on the back, intestines and inferior vena cava (IVC). The pressure may cause backaches and gastrointestinal issues, leading to hemorrhoids. It can also cause hypotension (low blood pressure), which can make you dizzy.
Other than that, sleeping on your stomach is fine unless you get your baby bump and it becomes uncomfortable and/or impossible over time.
Tips to enhance your comfort while sleeping
Given that pregnant women should get ample amounts of sleep, here are some tips and tricks to make that possible.
– Use plenty of pillows. You can use them as support for your legs, back or can cuddle on to them.
– Stick to a regular sleep routine.
– Completely steer clear of caffeinated drinks like soda, coffee, and tea.
– Avoid drinking too much water or eating heavy just before going to bed. This may lead to frequent urination or long bathroom visits that can disrupt your sleep.
– Indulge in simple yoga asanas that relieves you of your stress and also relaxes your body.
