Generally, the best position to sleep in when you’re pregnant is on your side with your knees bent. Sleeping on your left side is especially preferable, but sleeping on either side is better than sleeping on your back or stomach. Sleeping on your side typically improves blood flow and the flow of nutrients to the placenta and Baby. Sleeping on your side may also relieve back pain and prevent shortness of breath.
Why shouldn’t I sleep on my back?
Although you might be used to it, sleeping on your back can give you aches and pains, and it decreases blood flow to Baby, especially once you’ve reached the second trimester. The problems with sleeping on your back are due to the added weight of your uterus and baby on your abdomen. When sleeping on your back, your abdomen presses down on your intestines and major blood vessels that run up and down your back. The added pressure can give you backaches and cause shortness of breath. The decreased blood flow to your placenta is the major concern, as this could impact blood flow to Baby.
Tips?
Getting a good night’s sleep becomes increasingly more important as you get later into your pregnancy. Before the second trimester, try practicing side sleeping if you’re normally a back or tummy sleeper. Get used to rolling to your side if you wake in the night flat on your back. Especially if you tend to toss and turn as you sleep, it is important to find a way to get a good night’s rest while taking care of your body and your baby.
Specially designed pregnancy pillows also provide wonderful support for getting those much-needed ZZZs. Some pregnancy pillows are body-length, providing your whole body with the support it needs, while others are smaller and more versatile, allowing you to place them wherever you feel like you need the most support. All pillows can act as a great wedge to keep you from accidentally lying totally flat on your back while asleep.
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Sources
- “Sleeping By The Trimesters.” Sleep Foundation. National Sleep Foundation, n.d. Web.
