Pregnancy Central

Staying healthy during pregnancy

Problems Sleeping

For some women, falling and staying asleep at night can be a real challenge. Between the leg cramps, the anxiety, the extra weight, and the occasional kicking, it's no wonder you feel like an insomniac. But rather than lie in bed awake and fret about losing precious sleep, you might want to consider some of these suggestions to make nighttime dreamy:

Sleep positions: Generally, pregnant women find it much more comfortable to sleep on their side once they are further along in their pregnancy. This helps to take pressure off your back and also helps to relieve pressure from your uterus on the main vein that brings the blood back to the heart from your legs and your feet. Consider putting a pillow between your legs and under your abdomen for support.

Relaxation Techniques: Some women seem to have their wheels spinning all night thinking about labor and delivery, and all the new things that are getting ready to happen. You can start using some of the tips on breathing and relaxation from your childbirth classes. Not only will it serve as good practice, but it will also help you to relax and get some sleep.