Pregnancy can be one of the most joyous times of a woman’s life. But as your body rapidly changes, your daily routine can be thrown out of sync. Throughout the various stages of pregnancy, you may become stressed as you discover familiar sleep positions are no longer comfortable, especially true during the summer months. There are many causes for this discomfort, and it is important to adjust your nightly sleeping habits to accommodate the life growing inside you.
How Important Is Sleep While Pregnant?
Sleep is just as important as prenatal vitamins and supplements for pregnant mothers and their growing baby. Lack of good sleep during pregnancy can lead to serious health problems including:
- Prolonged labor
- Increased cesarean sections
- Preterm birth
- Preeclampsia
- Postpartum depression
According to the National Sleep Foundation, women who slept less than 6 hours at night had longer labors and were more likely to have cesarean deliveries. That’s why researchers recommend discussing sleep quality and quantity with doctors, because while eating for two may be a myth, sleeping for two isn’t. In other words, sleep should be a priority if you are expecting. That’s why SHEEX wants to help you sleep more comfortably. We offer the Experience Sheet Set, a product that provides more breathability – allowing you to get an undisrupted night of sleep so you can clock those 8 hours of rest with ease.
What Is the Best Position to Sleep While Pregnant?
Remember the acronym SOS: Sleep On your Side. You will be most comfortable sleeping on your side as your belly grows. More importantly, research indicates you should sleep on your left side. Based on where your organs are located, sleeping on your right side while pregnant can cause circulation to worsen and your organs to squeeze against each other. Doctors recommend sleeping on your left side because it helps lift the uterus off the liver and improves circulation to the heart, allowing the best blood flow to the fetus, uterus, and kidneys. Sleeping on your left side reduces the likelihood of serious problems that can lead to stillbirths.
Can I Sleep on My Stomach or Back While Pregnant?
After your first trimester, you should try to avoid sleeping on your back. Sleeping on your back or stomach at this point can cause any of the following problems to occur:
- Back pain
- Shortness of breath
- Heartburn
If you sleep on your back or stomach further along in your pregnancy, you increase the likelihood of serious health issues. Problems that can occur include:
- Digestive issues
- Hemorrhoids
- Low blood pressure
- Decreased circulation to your heart and your baby
How Does the Summer Heat Affect My Sleep?
There are no two ways about it, pregnancy during the summer months can often be unpleasant as it is hot and muggy for months on end. Pregnant women naturally have an increased amount of blood volume and extra fluids in their body -- as much as 40-50 percent -- causing them to feel warmer and sweat more frequently as the body tries to cool itself. Keeping cool is a key. Studies show that if a pregnant woman’s temperature surpasses 102 degrees for longer than 10 minutes it’s problematic to mother and baby.https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/pregnancy-precautions.html?view=ptr Staying hydrated, avoiding clothes or bedding that traps heat and sleeping in a cool space is a great start to better summer sleep while pregnant.
How Do I Stay Asleep While Pregnant?
Good sleep during pregnancy is hard enough to achieve, so turn your bedroom into a sanctuary. Invest in the proper bedding that supports your new sleeping position and keeps you from running hot throughout the night. Try this combination:
- Pillows, Pillows, and More Pillows. When you transition to sleeping on your side, you will likely need to invest in more pillows. Sleeping with a pillow between your legs will help align your spine and limit back soreness. You can also prop a pillow under your abdomen during your third trimester to reduce muscle strain and soreness. SHEEX cooling pillows are great for keeping those pesky night sweats at bay and will provide extra support during your slumber.
- Stay Cool. As your body kicks into overdrive, the hormonal changes caused by pregnancy are known to raise your body temperature during the first trimester. Choose pajamas such as SHEEX sleepwear and moisture-wicking sheets to thermoregulate and ventilate at night as your child grows.
These are some initial tips to get your best sleep during pregnancy. Remember to create a sleep haven with comfortable sheets, plenty of pillows, and a doctor-approved sleeping position. Proper sleep is one of the most important health factors for you and your baby. Prepare now so you are snoozing peacefully every night when pregnant.
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