Sleep
During pregnancy!
For
most pregnant
women, being
comfortable
and getting
enough rest
can be two
of the biggest
challenges.
Typically,
these problems
affect more
than 75
percent
of pregnant
women. During
the second
and third
trimesters
(20 weeks
and beyond),
lower back
pain and
stomach
discomfort
often increase.
Women who
normally
sleep on
their back
or stomach
often find
getting
enough restful
sleep especially
challenging.
Sleeping
on the back
is discouraged
because
of compression
of the uterus
on the large
blood vessels
(inferior
vena cava)
and on the
intestines,
causing
decreased
blood flow
and oxygen
to the baby.
Some
Tips on
Improving
Your
Sleep
Set the
proper mood
to prepare
for sleep
through
soft lighting,
a good book,
a warm bath
(try adding
a small
amount of
lavender
oil) and/or
a warm non-caffeinated
beverage.
Experiment
to see what
helps you
unwind.
Massage
by your
partner
is also
a good way
to relax.
-
Try
daily
exercise
-
walking
or
pregnancy
aerobics
often
help.
-
Use
comfort
aids,
such
as
the
Gentle
Air
Maternity
Bed
or
a
special
body
pillow
to
support
your
abdomen
and
hips.
-
Nap
during
the
day
to
help
gain
some
rest
and
relaxation.
Ask
your
doctor
can
give
you
additional
advice.
There
are
several
over-the-counter
and
prescription
medications
that
are
safe
to
use
and
effective
if
other
methods
are
not
successful.
