Pregnancy is one of the most amazing times of a woman's life, but it is also one of the most challenging. Your body is growing, your hormones are raging and you are dealing with a wide variety of changes all at once. In the middle of all of these changes, it is more important than ever to get a good night's sleep.
Unfortunately, the unique challenges of pregnancy can make it difficult to wake up well-rested and refreshed each morning. If you are having trouble sleeping well during your pregnancy, try these tips to improve your chances of restful nights.
Pregnancy and Sleep
Find a New Sleep Position
After the first trimester ends and your belly begins to expand, it is no longer comfortable or safe to sleep on your stomach. This can be a real inconvenience for stomach sleepers. Late in pregnancy, the weight of your stomach also makes it uncomfortable to sleep on your back.
If you do not feel comfortable sleeping on your side, try supporting your belly with a strategically-placed pillow or two. This will become even more important as you progress further into your pregnancy.
Don't Go to Bed with an Empty Stomach
When you are pregnant, your body needs to nourish and support both you and your little one. Nothing can interrupt sleep more quickly than waking up starving at 3 AM.
Before you go to bed, eat a healthy, filling snack. Many Mums enjoy a banana with a handful of almonds, carrots dipped in hummus or whole wheat crackers topped with small slices of cheese. Eating a nutritious snack before bed will also help keep your blood sugar at a reasonable level.
However, it is important to steer clear of spicy, fatty foods before bed. Pregnant women are more at risk for heartburn, and eating these types of food before bedtime can keep you awake with a burning chest and throat.
Invest in Comfortable Sleeping Aids
If you are sleeping on and old, uncomfortable mattress, it is going to be much more difficult to get restful sleep during pregnancy. This is a great time to invest in a supportive mattress. A memory foam mattress is a great choice since it supports both your expanding belly and your back.
If your budget does not allow for the purchase of a new mattress, consider a new mattress topper. A memory foam mattress topper can make a huge difference in your level of comfort at night.
Reduce Stress
Pregnancy can be difficult physically, but it can be even more difficult emotionally. Even when a baby is wanted and planned for, there is almost always some apprehension about adding a new member to the family.
If you find yourself lying awake at night worrying about your pregnancy and future, try to incorporate some relaxation techniques into your nightly routine. Many Mums find that meditation and deep breathing are helpful tools.
You can also keep a notebook by your bed and write down the things that are worrying you. Sometimes simply getting the worries out of your mind and onto paper can help you relax enough to go to sleep.
Is Sleep Deprivation Affecting Your Productivity at Work?
Have you been dozing off in the middle of your workday or during lively business meetings? Have you experienced an unrelenting tiredness that you cannot seem to satisfy?
Health Benefits Associated With Memory Foam Mattresses
According to a survey that was recently taken, 81 percent of people who have purchased a memory foam mattress have stated that they were very satisfied.
Simon Johnson is dedicated to the Perfect Nights Sleep at MyNextMattress
