Sleeping Problems During Pregnancy
Many pregnant women have issues sleeping. They can’t get comfortable, their mind wanders or their bodies hurt. If you’re experiencing sleeping problems during pregnancy, there are some things you can do to promote better sleeping habits.
You’ll want to get as much quality rest as you can because having a newborn interferes further with your sleep schedule.
The Need for Rest is Even More Important During Pregnancy
- Rest is restorative.
- It’s a necessary part of healing.
- You’ll want to make sure that you’re able to get as much sleep as possible while you’re pregnant so that you don’t become ill.
Your Guide to Overcoming Sleep Problems
Consider this your guide to sleep problems during pregnancy. Being able to identify the source of interruption helps you come up with the best solution to meet your needs. The following issues are ones that commonly occur when you’re carrying a child.
Discomfort
- As your stomach grows and your feet swell, it can be very difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position. If you’re used to sleeping on your stomach, it’s no longer an option.
- You may need to invest in a pregnancy pillow so that you’re able to sleep on your left side while propping up your knees with part of the u-shaped body pillow.
Frequent Urination
- Your baby may be constantly pushing on your bladder. To combat the urge to pee all night long, cut back how much you drink before bedtime.
- Doing so helps you eliminate the up down routine you have all night with a full bladder.
Insomnia
- Take time to wind down before bed. Soak in a warm bath, put some scented lotion on, turn down the blinds, and listen to soft music. Before you know it, you’ll be falling to sleep with ease.
Heartburn
- Avoid eating anything for at least two hours before bedtime. Keep your meals somewhat bland. Don’t eat anything too spicy or acidic as it can cause stomach upset and heartburn once you’ve laid down.
Leg Cramps
This issue usually occurs during the second half of your pregnancy as weight gain compresses blood vessels.
- One solution is to up your intake of calcium and magnesium. You’ll find plenty of foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals that won’t upset your stomach and help ease the pain in your legs.
When to Seek the Help of a Medical Professional
Now that you know how to deal with sleep problems during pregnancy, you’ll have an easier time falling and staying asleep. You’ll have fewer instances of insomnia because you’ll have solutions that work effectively for you. If sleep deprivation occurs for long periods of time, it could significantly affect your pregnancy in a negative way.
That’s why it’s important to let your doctor know of any changes in your sleep pattern and also what you’re doing to help yourself reach a place of restful slumber. They’ll put the information in your chart and use it to diagnose additional problems with sleep that you might have in the future.