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Is it possible for pregnant women to lie down. Pregnancy: traffic rules

Good sleep during pregnancy is the key to the well-being of the expectant mother, and therefore the child. But how to sleep during pregnancy, so that after waking up you feel cheerful, and do not suffer from aches and numbness of certain parts of the body.

1 trimester. In the early stages, while the fetus is still very small, a woman can sleep in any comfortable position. You can only sleep on your stomach for the first 11 weeks of bearing a baby, because in the first trimester the uterus is protected from squeezing by the pubic and pelvic bones, and the bladder takes on all the blows and pressure. The only thing that can bring discomfort to a pregnant woman is soreness and increased sensitivity of the breast. That is why many women give up their favorite sleeping position already from the beginning of the first trimester of pregnancy.

2 trimester. By the twelfth week, the uterus begins to go beyond the boundaries of the pubic articulation, and although the fetus is reliably protected from external pressure by adipose tissue, the uterine wall and amniotic fluid, but still starting from the second trimester sleeping on your stomach is not recommended.

From 25-28 weeks of pregnancy, when the fetus begins to grow actively, you should not sleep on your back either, because such a sleeping position can cause:

  • deterioration of blood circulation in the placenta, as a result of which the fetus may suffer from oxygen starvation (hypoxia);
  • development in the future mother of hemorrhoids, venous congestion and edema in the lower extremities, varicose veins and even thrombophlebitis;
  • aching back pain;
  • lowering blood pressure, and as a result of the appearance of dizziness, weakness, darkening in the eyes, tinnitus, rapid breathing, heavy sweating, nausea (perhaps even vomiting);
  • the appearance of digestive problems (since the uterus will compress the intestines and its large blood vessels);
  • disruption of the kidneys and heart.

The complications described above are due to the fact that when you sleep on your back, the enlarged uterus is pressed against the spine, squeezing the inferior vena cava and aorta (see Figure 1). Clamping of the inferior vena cava, which carries blood from the lower extremities up to the heart, causes a decrease in the return of venous blood to the heart, and the woman's blood pressure decreases, the blood in the veins stagnates, and uterine and renal blood flow decreases.

Figure 1 - Demonstration picture of why you need to sleep on your side during pregnancy

You can put a large pillow under your back, which, when changing positions, will prevent the woman from lying on her back.

The sleeping position is so individual that it will be more comfortable for some to sleep on the right side, for others the baby will signal with kicks that it is uncomfortable for him to be in this position, and then it is better to roll over to the other side.


3rd trimester. During this period it is recommended sleep exclusively on the left side, because lying on the right side, the grown-up baby squeezes the woman's liver and right kidney, which is located slightly lower than the left one. Clamping of the ureter of the kidney leads to stagnation of urine, as a result of which a disease such as pyelonephritis can develop.

For a more comfortable sleep, it is recommended to put a pillow between the legs, while stretching the left leg and bending the right knee (see Figure 2). So the legs will not become numb, and the load on the pelvis will be less. You can also put a small pillow under your stomach.

Figure 2 - Photo of the correct position of the body during sleep

Sleeping on the left side is also recommended if the fetus is in the wrong position. With a transverse presentation of the fetus, you should sleep on the side where its head is displaced. It is also useful to do the following exercise: lie on one side for about 5-10 minutes, then roll over to the other side, also for 5-10 minutes. Perform on an empty stomach for 1 hour 2-3 times a day.

With the pelvic location of the fetus, it is useful to sleep on the left side and regularly perform the following exercise: lie down on a hard, flat surface, placing a pillow folded in half under the buttocks so that the pelvis rises 20-30 cm above the level of the head. Stay in this position for about 5 minutes (but not more than 15 minutes). We take this pose 2 times a day for 2-3 weeks starting from 32 weeks (not earlier).
And as soon as the baby takes the correct position, you need to start wearing a bandage regularly (with a long stay on your feet).

If a pregnant woman often has heartburn, nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, then you should sleep so that the upper body is elevated.

With varicose veins, edema and leg cramps, it is recommended to put a pillow under the feet during rest so that the blood moves away from the lower extremities better.

It is impossible to control the position of your body during sleep, therefore, for the expectant mother, a pillow for pregnant women will become an indispensable assistant in this matter, which, after the baby is born, can help mommy take a comfortable position during feeding.

What is the best pillow to sleep on during pregnancy?

There are many options for pillows on sale, but during pregnancy, a woman needs a special version of this bedding, because during this period the anatomy of her body changes. Therefore, a special pillow for pregnant women was developed.

Disadvantages of this pillow:

  • can take up a lot of space on the bed (with small dimensions of the bed, it will be uncomfortable for the next sleeper to sleep);
  • a little hot in summer, because the fillers retain heat and do not absorb moisture released by the body;
  • must be washed in dry cleaning (if the pillow does not fit in the machine);
  • capable of being electrified;
  • the filler made of polystyrene balls rustles.

Material. Holofiber ball- Siliconized balls that look like curls of sheep's wool.

Hollofiber quickly restores its shape, resistant to washing and creasing. It is soft to sleep on products made from it, they are environmentally friendly and hypoallergenic, ticks do not start in such material, and sweat and odors are not absorbed. The material can be machine and hand washed at a temperature not exceeding 40 ° C, you can dry the product in a centrifuge.

Styrofoam balls (or granules)- environmentally friendly durable material resembling foam balls. The hardest filler in comparison with other types of synthetic materials.
These balls cannot be washed in a washing machine.

Swan artificial down- a synthetic material having a fibrous structure. Such a filler has the following characteristics: it does not cause allergies, antibacterial, light and elastic, does not stray into lumps after washing.
Synthetic down can be washed by hand and in a washing machine (at t up to 40 ° C), it dries quickly.

Sintepon usually not used in the manufacture of pillows for pregnant women, because it is not suitable for allergy sufferers and asthmatics, because. contains an adhesive that can cause coughing fits and other manifestations of these diseases. In addition, this material quickly strays into lumps.

Forms. G-shaped- large pillow Performs the following roles: supports the head and tummy; does not allow the pregnant woman to roll over on her back; allows you to sit comfortably with your leg on the pillow.

U-shaped- Large pillow in the form of a horseshoe. It will ensure good sleep, comfortable leisure activities and feeding the child. The U-shaped pillow ensures the correct position of the body during sleep and relieves stress from the pelvis and spine. Even children and husband will like such a pillow, because you just want to lie in an embrace with it.

C-shaped- universal pillow model. Designed for both sleeping and feeding the baby. During feeding, it supports the elbows, relieving tension from the shoulder (when feeding while sitting). It is convenient to make feeding and lying down.

The shape of the "nest" allows you to leave the crumbs unattended until mommy brings clean sliders. By placing the baby in the recess in the middle of the pillow, you will provide him with protection from falling out of bed. Also, the inner semicircle of the "eski" can be used as an auxiliary support when sitting down the crumbs.

L-shaped and in form I- good options for a small bed. The L-shaped model perfectly replaces the usual head pillow. At the same time, she supports her back well, preventing a woman from rolling over on her back in her sleep.

The I-shape is designed to act as a pillow for the head and support for the thigh. Can be rolled into desired shape.

V-shaped (crescent or boomerang)- compact version. Despite its small size, it retains the necessary functions of a pillow for pregnant women: it can support the head and tummy, or the back or neck (in the “sitting” or “half-sitting” position), or the pelvis and tummy (when it is located between the legs). Indispensable when feeding a child.

You can buy these pillows in this online store.

Any of the described pillows, if desired, can be made with your own hands. To help the needlewoman, the pictures show the sizes of the pillows so that patterns can be made from them.

Hollofiber and other fillers can be bought online. For one large pillow you need about 3 kg of holofiber.

Note!
Styrofoam balls are very electrified, and it is not easy to stuff a pillow with them, everything sticks to the fabric, and then there will be a lot of cleaning.

Expanded polystyrene balls shrink over time, and it becomes necessary to fill them with new granules, the price of which for 50 liters reaches $ 7 (430 rubles). For one large product you need 100-120 liters.

You can buy them on sites that sell frameless bean bags, ottomans and pillows for pregnant women.

The video clearly shows where the inferior vena cava passes, and why you should not sleep on your back in the third trimester of pregnancy.

Pregnancy is the most crucial period in a woman's life. In order to avoid various situations where something could go wrong, you should clearly know what is not allowed for pregnant women at different times. The primary task of a pregnant woman is to adjust her diet, establish harmony with the outside world, tune in positively, not forgetting to follow a healthy lifestyle. With such an attitude to her health, a woman will give birth to a full-fledged baby who will give real happiness to the whole family.

What is absolutely impossible for pregnant women: dangerous habits

Cigarettes

Bad habits cause irreparable harm to a woman's body. Today, more than ever, we need to focus on this. Alcoholic drinks, smoking, "passive smoking" will only harm the woman and the fetus. A pregnant woman should avoid places where smokers gather. This is especially common at work when a group of employees retire for smoke breaks. Recently, smoking areas have been legalized in public toilets, where a pregnant woman so often has to go. The constituent components of cigarettes are still present in the air for a long time even after the smoker has left, especially if the room does not have forced ventilation.

The accumulation of nicotine and tar in the blood increases blood pressure, which at any time can provoke a miscarriage. In turn, alcohol endangers the work of all internal organs. Even, at first glance, low-alcohol drinks, such as beer or Martini, can cause severe intoxication of the body of the woman herself and the embryo. Alcohol irrevocably destroys groups of vital cells of the brain, hematopoietic organs, the respiratory system, and nerve endings.

What clothes are harmful to pregnancy

Great importance should be given to clothing. During pregnancy, every woman needs to review her wardrobe and change her addictions. You need to start with shoes. It should be comfortable, light, made of natural materials, match the weather conditions. It is unacceptable to wear high-heeled shoes that are too narrow and high instep throughout the day.

Tight clothing adversely affects the health of a pregnant woman. It is necessary to abandon thongs, too tight skirts with belts that are strongly tightened at the waist.

How to sleep pregnant?

Starting from the second trimester, a pregnant woman should not sleep on her back. An enlarged uterus in this position of the body exerts increased pressure on the inferior vena cava, as a result of which the blood supply to the embryo and blood stagnation in the mother's peritoneum deteriorates. This is fraught with fading of the fetus and disruption of the internal organs of the abdominal cavity of a woman. For the same reason, pregnant women should not sit for a long time.

Vaccinations

Expectant mothers should not be addicted. The following vaccinations may be an exception:

  • from the flu;
  • from anthrax;
  • from rabies;
  • from yellow fever;
  • from encephalitis.

Other vaccinations can cause severe allergic reactions and complications.

Working with household chemicals is extremely dangerous for a pregnant woman throughout the entire period. Toxic substances quickly penetrate into the bloodstream and rapidly dissolve, spreading through the bloodstream throughout the body. Equivalent harm is done to the body of a woman and the fetus by means of combating indoor insects and garden pests.

Cosmetics

The danger is represented by cosmetic products in which hormones and vitamins are added. An excess of these substances can lead to deformities and diseases in the developing embryo. These products also include hair dyes, antiperspirants, hair and nail polishes, household chemicals for washing dishes and sanitary surfaces.

Gym

Classes in the gym during pregnancy should be stopped. Excessive physical activity is strictly contraindicated for pregnant women at any time.

cat toilet

You can't clean the cat litter box. Contact with animal feces is fraught with the transmission of toxoplasmosis to a woman, which can cause the death of the embryo.

Sex

Some women are advised not to have sex during pregnancy. This is purely individual. In late pregnancy, sex is contraindicated.

Medications

It is extremely important for a pregnant woman to treat the choice of drugs to overcome diseases. Throughout the entire period of pregnancy, a woman can carry respiratory infections, intestinal inflammation, severe migraines and much more. To cope with the disease without the help of pharmacological drugs can be difficult. The attending physician will prescribe in such cases gentle treatment with minimal risk to the health of the woman and the fetus.

What not to do during pregnancy

Some activities that a woman is accustomed to in everyday life can adversely affect the development of the embryo and the health of the expectant mother. Sometimes you don’t even have to think about the dangers that they are fraught with. Particular attention should be paid to medicines, which should not be taken without consulting your doctor.

Solarium

It is forbidden for pregnant women to visit the solarium. Throughout the entire period, the body actively produces melanin, sometimes it even leads to age spots on the skin of different parts of the body. Additional ultraviolet light can aggravate the situation. Therefore, when going outside in the summer, when the sun has increased activity, you should apply a protective sunscreen to your skin.

Aircraft

Air travel is a high risk. At the time of takeoff, blood pressure rises sharply due to the difference in atmospheric pressure and low oxygen concentration in the air. This may cause a miscarriage. Flight time is usually reduced to a few hours. Throughout this period, passengers are in a sitting position, they are inactive and do not have the opportunity to go out into the fresh air. All these factors are detrimental to a pregnant woman, and it is almost impossible to exclude them until the aircraft arrives at the final destination.

X-ray and fluorography

Pregnant women do not do x-rays and fluorography. These studies have a negative impact on the development of the fetus. The nervous system, heart, respiratory and hematopoietic organs can be affected. X-rays are especially dangerous in the first trimester, when all the internal organs and the brain are laid.

Conflicts and emotional telecasts

No matter how we all relate to the frequent stressful situations that surround us in the modern world, a pregnant woman, like no one else, needs to avoid them. Conflict situations in which a woman in a position is forced to take part can provoke severe prolonged headaches, psychosomatic disorders, exacerbation of chronic diseases that are in a "sleeping" state. It is necessary to exclude viewing heavy psychological programs and movies. It also causes stress, which results in an increase in the level of the hormone cortisol in the blood, often leading to premature birth.

Hot shower and bath

It is extremely dangerous to take a hot shower and steam in the bath. This can cause bleeding and miscarriage. Bathing water temperature should not exceed 40°C.

Nutrition and daily routine: all the pros and cons

For some reason, there is an opinion that the period of pregnancy for most women is an unbearable test due to the fact that there are a huge number of prohibitions and restrictions. Actually it is not. The diet will help to correct the observing doctor. Some products really should be excluded, however, they can be replaced with less dangerous ones that will not harm the body of the pregnant woman and the embryo.

A pregnant woman must observe the daily routine. This includes adequate sleep and a balanced diet. Any person who lacks sleep is irritable, unable to concentrate, performs the usual daily activities, experiencing an overpowering feeling of fatigue. Of course, in a pregnant woman, this condition affects the development of the embryo. The fetus is very sensitive to even slight changes in the mother's mood.

Diet is of particular importance during pregnancy. Not everyone is ready to change their eating habits, however, everything that the supervising doctor will recommend is aimed at maintaining the health of the mother and child.

The expectant mother should give up too strong coffee and tea. These are diuretics, they remove fluid from the body along with calcium, significantly increasing blood pressure.

Meat and seafood must be subjected to mandatory heat treatment in order to avoid infection with helminths. Sushi, shellfish and dried river fish are at particular risk.

Table No. 1 provides a list of foods that should be excluded from the diet of a pregnant woman, or reduce their consumption.

Table number 1. What foods should be excluded during pregnancy

Exclude

Not desirable

Alcohol

Fish high in mercury

Tuna and salmon accumulate mercury in themselves. The harm from mercury has been little studied, only vapors are poisonous, but doctors do not recommend that pregnant women eat seafood that is high in this element. The lowest level of mercury is observed in trout, sprat, sardines, horse mackerel, flounder.

Soft cheeses

There is a high risk of containing Listeria bacteria, which can provoke a miscarriage. Soft cheeses, such as Feta, Brie, blue cheeses, should be discarded during pregnancy and lactation.

artificial sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners can adversely affect the development of the embryo. Natural sugar substitutes are considered safe: stevia and sucralose.

Contraindicated "Sacharin" and "Sodium Cyclamate"

Unpasteurized milk

Raw milk carries many potential dangers. These can be infections caused by pathogenic bacteria and microorganisms. Some of them do not manifest themselves immediately after penetration into the body, and the diagnosis of the disease that has arisen is very difficult.

The liver has a high content of retinol, which in large quantities can adversely affect the development of the embryo.

Caffeine, along with other tonic substances, can lead to miscarriage, especially if the woman is in conservation. However, you don't have to cut out coffee completely. It is better to consult a doctor.

Meat, fish, chicken, smoked products

Pregnant women should not eat varieties of sausages produced for retail sale in supermarkets. Such sausages can be made from meat, as they say, "not the first freshness", flavored with a lot of spices and salt. You should also abandon dried fish, sushi, smoked meats. The ingredients used in smokehouses are extremely harmful to anyone, not to mention pregnant women. Fish that has not undergone heat treatment should be excluded for the period of pregnancy and lactation. The meat of the fish may contain Finns of some dangerous helminths. River fish caught in suburban areas carry the risk of phenolic intoxication.

canned food

A raw egg

Raw eggs are contraindicated for pregnant women, as Salmonella can multiply in them, which causes severe gastrointestinal disorders up to prolonged dysentery.

canned pickles

Canned vegetables, due to the high content of salt and spices, can cause an increased feeling of thirst, increasing swelling. Salt consumed in large quantities leads to dehydration, and in the early stages contributes to miscarriage. Brine from conservation should be excluded altogether. The use of preservation must be agreed with the supervising physician.

Mushrooms are a little-studied product that is practically not absorbed by the body. Moreover, mushrooms can cause indigestion and even poisoning.

store juices

Industrially produced juices may contain artificial colors and preservatives that can cause allergic reactions.

It is not worth exposing the body of a woman and an unborn child to the risk of exposure to little-studied drugs that have not passed clinical trials and have not received the necessary quality certificates, which have been dietary supplements over the past few decades. If, nevertheless, there is a need to take such drugs, their use should be coordinated with the supervising physician.

Most spices have a tonic and stimulating effect on the centers of the peripheral nervous system. Adding even a small amount of spices to the food of a pregnant woman can increase appetite, which is not desirable for everyone. Also, in the early stages of pregnancy, spicy spices can provoke a miscarriage.

Folk omens: should they be trusted

In the modern world, despite scientific and technological progress, there are still philistine superstitions that even highly educated people often succumb to. Folk signs that suggest what not to do to pregnant women came to our time from the deep past, when ancient peoples tracked natural phenomena, worshiped the power of unbridled elements. Many modern people sincerely believe in folk omens. Perhaps, at this moment, little-studied mechanisms are launched in the body at a subconscious level. If a person believes in signs, they will certainly have an impact.

So, the most common signs for pregnant women:

  • Do not play with cats - the child will have many enemies;
  • You can’t tell your friends about your pregnancy at an early stage - they can jinx it;
  • You can’t sit on the threshold - this is the border with the other world, in which evil spirits prevail;
  • Eating red berries is dangerous - the child will have too red facial skin throughout his life;
  • You can’t knit and sew - the baby can get tangled in the umbilical cord, which will complicate the delivery process;
  • You can not cut your hair - shortens the life path of the unborn child;
  • You can’t eat secretly and in the dark - the child will be born shy and anxious;
  • You can’t buy things for a future baby until the moment of birth - things that are not put on immediately after purchase are a haven for evil spirits;
  • You can’t attend a funeral - evil spirits can inhabit the cemetery in a baby who does not have a guardian angel before birth;
  • You can’t sit with your legs crossed - a baby can be born with twisted legs or with flat feet;
  • You can’t hold your hands above your head for a long time (hang curtains, linen) - the baby can get tangled in the umbilical cord and be too active after birth;
  • It is impossible to use foul language when pregnant - a baby may be born with large birthmarks.

To believe or not to take on faith folk signs is a personal matter for each person. The gullibility of many people instills peace in their souls and reduces anxiety. This has a positive effect on the mental state of the pregnant woman. Although common sense should prevail in everything. For example, when it comes to cutting hair on the head or eating fruits that have a red tint.

What pregnant women do not learn - choose clothes, play sports and even sleep! Waiting for the baby takes place in the care of yourself and the child. Expectant mothers at this time often notice disturbances in sleep patterns, it occurs due to hormonal changes that accompany an interesting situation. Already in the early stages, the woman's body changes, as does the sleep pattern, and in the later stages, a large belly does not allow finding a comfortable position. Also, pregnant women have a lot of questions - is it possible to sleep on your stomach, is it possible to sleep on your back, and which side is better to sleep on - right or left.

Sound sleep in the first trimester

This time is often characterized by depression of the nervous system. The expectant mother has drowsiness. You don't have to fight it, just let yourself have a good night's sleep. Think about the future child, who is still so defenseless. Your sleep is important to him too.

In the early stages, you can sleep in any comfortable position. On the stomach, it may not be very comfortable, as the breasts become painful and very sensitive due to hormonal changes. At this time, it is worth accustoming yourself to the postures that you will use in a few months - on the back and on the side.

Features of the second trimester

A woman's well-being improves after 12 weeks of pregnancy. Mood swings and nausea in the morning disappear. By this time, the troubles associated with hormonal changes had already ended. And new inconveniences, such as back pain, excess weight, clumsiness, have not yet begun. They appear, as a rule, in the last months. But the question of how to sleep is becoming more and more acute. What pose to choose?

Sleeping on your stomach is no longer suitable for this time. After all, it increases so much that in this position you can crush the baby with your weight. It is worth considering other options in order to ensure uninterrupted and sound sleep. After all, you yourself will probably be uncomfortable in this position due to a round stomach.

The best position in the second trimester is the supine position. Since the weight of the child is still small, the expectant mother will feel comfortable - the diaphragm and spine will not be squeezed. However, after the baby begins to move, it is advisable to change the position. The most convenient and useful at this time will sleep on your side. Best of all - on the left, but in the middle of pregnancy, the right one is also suitable.

How to sleep in the third trimester

The abdomen at this time increases significantly, which creates new problems and questions. Getting enough sleep in the third trimester is no longer as easy as it used to be. Therefore, it is worth considering important details to help you do this.

  • It is necessary to prepare for sleep not only yourself, but also the room. Be sure to ventilate it. It is enough to open the window for 10-15 minutes. In the summer, it is recommended to sleep with the window open.
  • Your nightgown and underwear should be made from natural fabrics. This will make your sleep more comfortable.
  • The choice of pillow plays a big role. It is important that it is elastic, and also high enough so that the curve of the spine and neck is correct. During sleep, you can put it under your back, and not just under your head. This will reduce the load on the spine, and the back muscles will be able to relax as much as possible. For pregnant women, there are special pillows from which you can make a “nest” for the abdomen. It helps a lot to sleep properly in the third trimester. Experiment with regular pillows of different sizes. You can put them under the leg, under the stomach, under the lower back, between the legs - as you see fit.

On which side?

In later periods, sleep on the left side is recommended. Why exactly on the left? This is due to the peculiarities of the anatomy of women, more precisely, the position of the inferior vena cava, which runs along the right side of the uterus. Sleeping on her right side can cause her to be squeezed by a baby who is already quite heavy in the third trimester. You should try to avoid this. The fact is that the inferior vena cava is involved in the outflow of blood from the pelvic organs and legs. If a pregnant woman often sleeps on her side, she is squeezed. As a result, varicose veins may appear on the legs. In addition, the baby's blood supply may be impaired. Through the placenta, the baby will no longer receive enough oxygen. You will feel that his movements become more intense.

In late pregnancy, it can be uncomfortable to sleep even on your side. How to be in this case, the expectant mother? If you lie on your left side, it is recommended put a pillow under bent at the knee right leg. In this pose:

  • blood flow to the placenta increases, therefore, the baby will receive enough oxygen for development;
  • improves kidney function, which is especially important in the last trimester;
  • you will be less worried about swelling of the legs and arms;
  • no pressure on the liver;
  • no pain in the pelvis and back;
  • ensures optimal functioning of your heart.

However, it is not always better to sleep on the left side in later periods. Sometimes you have to choose the right one. We are talking about the case when it is on this side that your baby's head is located. Doctors call this position of the fetus transverse presentation and recommend sleep on the right side. This will help the child in the future to take the correct position.

From the forums

zamarusia How convenient - so lie down TE)))!!! Just don’t cross your legs))) Try NOT on your back, but on your side - it doesn’t matter. We must listen to our feelings - a woman is the most sensitive creature! Close to nature, you have to do as intuition tells you 😉 🙂

[email protected] And I sleep either on my right or on my left. But I always fall asleep on my back. Yes, and during my first pregnancy, I slept without thinking, the only thing I put small pillows under my back, I couldn’t sleep without them. And I didn’t hear at all that it’s not recommended to sleep on some side. Now I manage to sleep on my stomach (I turn over in my sleep) 😀 Sleep comfortably, listen to your body and baby 😉

Irina I now sleep only on my left side, although after 15-20 minutes. stomach starts hurting badly. My mask has just an ass on the left side and with it he squeezes his stomach under the ribs to unbearable pain. We had a breech presentation and only recently our son turned his head down, but he is still very active and spins to the sides. So I have to sleep on the side where his back is, in order to keep him in the right position.
Just like Olga wrote, she simply stopped sleeping because she was terribly uncomfortable. On the left side it hurts, on the right the baby spins and may again be incorrectly positioned, and the doctor does not advise on the back, because. even on CTG, it was clear that his heart was suffering when I was lying on my back.
We are only 35 weeks old, walk for another month and a half, and I can’t sleep at all. I adapted to doze half-sitting, putting 2 pillows, but my neck gets numb so quickly and my back hurts in the morning.

Natalia Girls, dear, don’t worry about which side to sleep on. Sleep at your convenience. If your child doesn't like it, he will let you know. I slept throughout the pregnancy, as it was convenient for me, both on my back, and on my left side, and on my right. Nobody's veins, stomachs, hearts suffered. The only problem shortly before the birth was to roll over from side to side at night, I had to wake up every time. That's when the child will not let you sleep at night, you will sleep in any position.

  • Sleeping pills should not be used if you cannot sleep. They can be used only on the recommendation of a doctor and in very rare cases. Any medicine, including sleeping pills, affects not only your body, but also the fragile body of the child.
  • Do not drink caffeinated drinks at night. These include not only coffee, but also tea. By the way, green tea has more caffeine than black tea.
  • Carbonated water is recommended to use as little as possible. Do not take large amounts of food or water 2-3 hours before bedtime. A glass of kefir and a small snack in the form of several crackers will help get rid of toxicosis.
  • Get some fresh air before bed. A walk will be useful, but heavy physical exertion at night is not recommended.
  • Try to get up and go to bed at about the same time. Regular sleep is very important for the body.
  • If you suddenly wake up with leg cramps, get up and stand still for a while. After that, do a pinch-relaxing massage. Cramps indicate that there is not enough calcium in the body. Increase your intake of foods that contain it in high amounts. It is especially abundant in poppy seeds, sesame seeds, almonds, greens, beans and dairy products.
  • Don't be afraid of childbirth. Fear of them is a fairly common cause of insomnia, especially in the last stages. Special courses for pregnant women or stories of friends who have already given birth will help prepare for this important event. Contrast this fear with the desire to see the baby, and you will feel how he recedes. We also read:

Use your pregnancy to build up the strength you'll need after childbirth. When the baby is born, you will no longer be able to sleep soundly. The child may require care even at night. But after giving birth, you can sleep in any position again.

Video

Can't sleep? Baby pushing? Can't find the right sleeping position? The cause of insomnia is not always in a growing tummy. How to deal with hormonal changes and what can a pregnant woman afford in the fight against lack of sleep, except for milk with honey? Yekaterina Ishchenko, in an attempt to fall asleep, was looking for the right position for sleeping under the supervision of the head of the Women's Consultation No. 25, Elena Farafonova.

Olga Leonidovna Maslennikova, obstetrician-gynecologist of the highest category. Work experience in practical medicine — 31 years. What position can you sleep in during pregnancy?

All nine months of pregnancy are accompanied by numerous "no". Doctors limit certain foods, alcoholic beverages, strenuous exercise. Even some sleeping positions are banned.

The growing belly and the general change in the body poses multiple problems for the pregnant woman: how to go to bed correctly in the third trimester and in the early stages, is it possible to fall asleep on your back during pregnancy and on which side it is preferable to lie - left or right.

If your big tummy is preventing you from sleeping, the advice of experts will help solve this problem.

Pregnancy is characterized by a sharp increase in the need for sleep. A pregnant woman, who is not even aware of her interesting position, notices that in any free minute she is just waiting for the moment to put her head on the pillow and take a nap. “I sleep all the time,” this is how women describe their condition.

This desire is connected with the physiological changes that accompany any pregnancy.

Immediately after conception, the hormone progesterone begins to be actively produced, as a result of which the pregnant woman feels constant fatigue, lack of initiative and, of course, drowsiness.

Good to know! If a pregnant woman wants to take a nap during the day, this need is best met. Otherwise, the right decision is to increase vitality, for example, by drinking a cup of a tonic drink - green tea.

Late pregnancy is again accompanied by drowsiness. Such a state is also quite natural, since a woman needs to gain strength before labor and prepare for further events.

Sometimes pregnant women have to sleep for 15-20 hours a day, interrupted only by meals.

In the second trimester, a pregnant woman may experience insomnia, since a sharply rounded belly violates all the previous ones and prevents a woman from sleeping on it.

The way out of this position is to sleep on the right or left side.

Start of pregnancy

In the early stages, a pregnant woman can choose her usual position - on the left or right side, the stomach or back is also suitable.

The chosen position is not able to affect the development of the child, since the fetus is still surrounded by the small pelvis.

Some pregnant women find it uncomfortable to sleep on their stomach, as the mammary glands become very sensitive and painfully react to such a position.

You can sleep on your back in the first trimester of pregnancy, but nausea often increases in this position.

By week 14, pregnant women need to develop the habit of napping on their side. During this period, sleeping on the stomach is dangerous for the fetus, despite the muscular protection and the “airbag” in the form of a fetal bladder. In addition, this position increases the risk of increased tone.

In the second trimester, doctors allow you to sleep on your back. The child is still small, and the uterus is not large enough to put pressure on the diaphragm and spinal column in this position.

If the baby begins to move, it is better to change position. During this period, it is better for a pregnant woman to lie on her side, ideally on the left, but the right side is also allowed.

By the end of pregnancy, sleep on an impressive tummy or back is excluded, you can sleep correctly on your left side, additionally placing a soft roller (or) under the right lower limb bent at the knee.

This position has a number of advantages:

  1. Placental blood flow improves, which means that the child receives the amount of oxygen and other essential elements necessary for full development.
  2. The urinary system works optimally, which helps to reduce swelling of the upper and lower extremities (this problem is especially relevant in the last weeks of pregnancy).
  3. The enlarged uterus does not press the liver so much.
  4. Unpleasant lingering pains in the pelvic region and lower back stop.
  5. The entire cardiovascular system of a pregnant woman's body works better, which avoids various problems with high blood pressure, arterial or venous circulation.

But not all pregnant women manage to sleep peacefully on their left side.

In the last weeks of pregnancy, sometimes you have to choose the right side. This is true if the presentation of the fetus is transverse. "Right-sided" sleep in this case helps the child lie down correctly.

As already mentioned, in the first weeks you can doze off in any position, but if the pregnancy has passed the 22-week milestone, you can forget about sweet dreams on your back. What is the risk of a pregnant woman in this position?

  1. The uterus begins to squeeze the internal organs, including the intestines. This leads to problems with its emptying, increased gas formation.
  2. Loading the lower back can lead to pain in the spinal column and small pelvis. The pains are different - both constantly aching and sharp, "shooting".
  3. This position threatens the course of pregnancy, so a pregnant woman who says “I only sleep on my back” risks her health. In this position, the inferior vena cava is clamped, which ensures the movement of blood from the legs to the upper body. In this case, pregnant women need help, as such negative signs develop as:
    • lack of oxygen;
    • a sharp drop in blood pressure;
    • dizziness;
    • disturbance of consciousness.
  4. Pregnancy is a period when the well-being of the child depends on the condition of the mother. If a pregnant woman constantly sleeps on her back, it can be argued that the fetus does not receive the right amount of oxygen. As a result of such starvation, hypoxia may develop, as a result of which a disturbed formation of the child's body is observed. After childbirth, the child eats poorly, sleeps, and is characterized by increased anxiety.

If a pregnant woman is expecting two or more children or pregnancy is accompanied by polyhydramnios, it is better not to sleep on her back from 14 weeks. Such advice is relevant if the child's head is very low and there is a risk of spontaneous abortion.

It doesn’t matter what month the woman is in, a good rest is required both at the beginning and at the end of the period of bearing a child. To restore strength and sleep, a pregnant woman should carefully read the following helpful tips.

  1. Do not use sedatives or sleeping pills without your doctor's approval first. Each medication can adversely affect the condition of the fetus.
  2. Avoid drinks containing the tonic caffeine before bed. It is important to give up both strong coffee and green tea.
  3. For a couple of hours before falling asleep, do not eat anything (especially heavy food) so that there is no heaviness in the stomach. You should also reduce the amount of fluid consumed three to four hours before going to bed.
  4. An evening walk is a good opportunity to get some air, get distracted and stretch a little. However, pregnant women should avoid excessive loads.
  5. Compliance with the daily routine is an important condition for good sleep. Try to accustom yourself to fall asleep and open your eyes at a strictly defined time.
  6. Sudden convulsions can provoke insomnia and frequent nightly getting up. In this case, it is necessary to consult a doctor who will advise relaxing massage movements, the inclusion of foods with calcium in the diet, or special preparations.
  7. “I can’t sleep because of the fear of childbirth,” this is how many women explain sleep problems. If you are not spared by the fear of the hospital, be like courses for expectant mothers, chat with positive and already given birth friends.
  8. The right pillows for women in position can improve the quality of sleep. Rollers of various shapes are on sale - in the form of a horseshoe, bagel, banana, etc. They allow you to comfortably sit on the bed and put your tummy in a cozy "nest".

Properly chosen position will help to ensure a good sleep.

It is important to remember that the closer to childbirth, the more dangerous it is to sleep on your back and stomach. The best position is on the side, right or left (whichever is more convenient).

Such a habit should be developed already in the first trimester, and in order to sleep even better, you can purchase a special pillow. Pleasant dreams!

Hello, I'm Nadezhda Plotnikova. Having successfully studied at SUSU as a special psychologist, she devoted several years to working with children with developmental problems and advising parents on raising children. I apply the experience gained, among other things, in the creation of psychological articles. Of course, by no means do I pretend to be the ultimate truth, but I hope that my articles will help dear readers deal with any difficulties.

Anxiety for a little peanut makes a pregnant woman take a different look at everyday things and habits. So, for example, already at the very beginning of pregnancy, expectant mothers try to find the optimal position for sleeping and relaxing. There are many recommendations in this regard, in particular, discussions regarding lying on your back do not subside. Today we will try to objectively answer this burning question for ladies in position.

How long can you lie on your back while pregnant?

While the tummy is barely noticeable and the uterus is reliably protected by the bones of the small pelvis, the expectant mother is not at all worried about whether it is possible to lie on her back during pregnancy. At first, the position during sleep in no way affects the well-being and development of the baby. On the stomach, on the back or side - a woman has the right to use the opportunity to sleep and rest in a comfortable way for her to the fullest, since in a couple of months she will not have such a prerogative. As soon as the tummy begins to round, sleeping on her stomach will be uncomfortable and unsafe for her. As for the back, gynecologists are allowed to rest in this position until about 28 weeks. However, doctors advise to gradually get used to and choose a comfortable position for rest in advance, so as not to overshadow the last months of pregnancy with chronic lack of sleep and fatigue.

Can pregnant women lie on their back in late pregnancy?

Having reached a huge size, the belly significantly limits the freedom of movement of a pregnant woman. Of course, you can no longer sleep on your stomach, and the position on your back is not the best solution. In this position, the uterus strongly compresses the vena cava, through which blood moves from the legs to the heart. Violating blood flow, a pregnant woman may feel unwell, dizzy, breathing may become rapid and intermittent. But, most importantly, with such violations, the child also suffers - he begins to experience an acute lack of oxygen.

In addition, prolonged lying on your back can cause lower back pain or increase

However, many doctors say: it is possible to lie on your back during pregnancy, but not for long. An alternating change in body position with a favorable course of pregnancy can in no way harm the baby and mother. But, nevertheless, answering the question of how long you can lie on your back during pregnancy, gynecologists do not advise abusing this position, and warn that with the slightest ailment, the position of the body should be changed immediately.