Often future mothers are concerned about what position to sleep in, in order not to hurt the child that’s growing inside their stomach so we’re bringing you advice on how to sleep during what trimester and answers some of the questions that most of mothers are interested in.
First trimester
Do not worry; things will naturally sort themselves out. At the beginning of your pregnancy the belly is still flat, the uterus is only slightly increased, while the size of your child is like a grains of rice. During this period, you will easily sleep on your stomach, and feel free to do so if you want to, because the child will not be harmed.
Second trimester
As your uterus grows and your pregnancy progresses, you will increasingly feel more uncomfortable to lie on your stomach, which is now protruding. You will automatically begin to avoid this situation. Some mothers will then move to sleep to their backs, and some will already start to sleep solely on their hips. However, if you normally prefer to sleep on your back or you're forced to choose that position, it will not take long for you to notice that this position will become uncomfortable too. In this position the baby compresses the inferior cava in your pelvis and therefore hinders your bloodstream. Immediately you will feel the uncomfortable feeling of pressure, shortness of breath and pressure disturbance which will certainly force you to lie on your side. Naturally you will position yourself on the side which will show to be the most comfortable position for sleep.
Third trimester
In the third trimester nearly all mothers sleep on their side because this is the only way they can sleep at all. Many of them are helping themselves with cushions that they place under the belly; some of them are even putting a pillow between their knees to support the spine. If you can afford it, buy yourself a pillow for breastfeeding, which is long enough and very convenient to support the abdomen, legs and the head. For more tips on sleeping while in your 3rd trimester of pregnancy read this.
Q&A’s:
Q: Are there exceptions?
A: There are a few exceptions. If the mother has a risky pregnancy, then the best sleeping position is sleeping sideways. Lying on your back is not recommended.
Q: Are all positions really safe for the unborn baby?
A: Each position that is comfortable for you is safe for your unborn baby. A woman's body is ready for any of these positions, so they do not pose a risk to the baby.
Q: Will the baby be uncomfortable in one of these positions?
A: The baby does not feel any discomfort. It's floating in a weightless environment, and there's always room for extensions, which you can clearly see on a modern 3d/4d ultrasound (Read more about 3d/4d ultrasounds here ). Do not worry about the baby, instead focus on your comfort.
Q: How to get enough rest?
A: You have to sleep on a good quality mattress that will be well adapted to the form of your body. It helps if you put a pillow or two between the legs, so that the upper leg is at the height of the hip. Future moms, in late pregnancy, must often change their sleeping position; otherwise they will usually not sleep enough. Therefore, pregnant women need to rest during the day.
Well the most important thing is how much you sleep and you should not worry about the proper position. Your stomach will certainly not allow you to adjust yourself into an unfavorable position because the longer you stay in it the more it will be uncomfortable and awkward.