Sleeping during pregnancy is rest and regeneration for the mother’s body . It also has a positive effect on the development of the fetus. Taking into account pregnancy ailments such as back pain, painful calf cramps or breathing difficulties in the last trimester, finding a comfortable sleeping position can be difficult.

How can we support nighttime rest?

Make sure you have a comfortable mattress to sleep on, if not- you need to replace it. Ventilate the room before bedtime and make sure the room is the right temperature. Limit light entering the bedroom and minimize electronic devices. Take a relaxing walk or bath before going to bed. Avoid strenuous activity. Use a pregnancy pillow in the shape of a croissant or banana to sleep on – they will make sleeping more comfortable in any position.

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The first trimester of pregnancy

During the first trimester of pregnancy, you can easily sleep in your favorite position, even if it’s on your stomach. Don’t worry, you won’t hurt your baby. It is protected by the uterus, the abdominal cavity and the pubic symphysis. It is not recommended to sleep on your stomach when your belly is starting to grow.

Second and third trimester

During these trimesters, sleeping on your side – especially your left side – is recommended. You may use these positions interchangeably. You may find it easier to force yourself into a slightly sideways position by using pillows and bolsters, even if you sleep on your back. It is also a good idea to put a pillow between your knees. Positioning on your left side prevents pressure on the vena cava. The vena cava in pregnancy is compressed by the inferior vena cava, which receives blood vessels from the abdomen, pelvis and lower limbs. The enlarging uterus may compress this vein, which will cause blood circulation problems for the mother and the fetus. This compression usually occurs when a woman is lying on her back and is past the midpoint of pregnancy. It is possible that you may experience stomach problems or heartburn during this period of pregnancy. If you have a stomach problem or heartburn, you can try sleeping in a semi-reclined position. If you have calf cramps, you may find relief by placing your feet slightly higher than the rest of your body.

Remember!

There are no clear recommendations as to what sleeping positions are best during pregnancy. The mother should be comfortable and feel good while doing so! If you feel unwell or dizzy after lying on your back, you should turn on your side. If, during the night, you wake up on your back because you have unconsciously positioned yourself in this way, do not panic! Only if unpleasant symptoms appear should you sit up or turn on your side.