Pregnancy Sleeping Positions

Pregnancy is a time when you meet a totally new you! Your body goes through incredible changes, including how you experience the simple pleasure of sleep. As you get into the full-on baby-growing mode, you can no longer snuggle into the bed in ways you like. In simple words, your snooze style needs a major makeover! Therefore, finding the right sleeping positions during pregnancy is crucial - not just for your comfort and well-being, but also for the health of the little one.

Why is Sleep So Important During Pregnancy?

Quality sleep is a must for everyone, but it becomes even more essential during pregnancy. Adequate sleep supports the physical and emotional changes that your body is undergoing, including tissue repair, hormone regulation, and immune system functioning. Moreover, when you are taking that much-needed nap, your body releases growth hormones vital for your baby's development. (Trust us when we say that sound sleep is the only sidekick you'll need to ace during this journey!)¹

Best Sleeping Positions During Pregnancy ¹

• SOS (Sleep on Side): Experts recommend sleeping on your left side during pregnancy, particularly after the first trimester. This sleeping position during pregnancy enhances blood flow to the placenta and reduces pressure on major blood vessels, ensuring optimal nutrients and oxygen reach your baby.
• Pillow Support: To make side sleeping more comfortable, place a pillow between your knees and another under your abdomen. This relieves strain on your lower back and hips.
• Semi-Reclined Position: If you're experiencing heartburn, propping yourself up with pillows in a semi-reclined position can be a helpful alternative. (This sleeping position during pregnancy is perfect for those movie night binges too!)

Wrong Sleeping Positions to Avoid During Pregnancy ¹

• Sleeping on Your Back: As your pregnancy progresses, avoid sleeping on your back, especially in the later stages. This sleeping position during pregnancy can exert pressure on your spine, blood vessels, and intestines, leading to discomfort and potentially reducing blood flow to the placenta.
• Stomach Sleeping: Once your belly starts growing, sleeping on your stomach becomes uncomfortable and unsafe. In fact, this sleeping position during pregnancy can strain your back and affect your baby's positioning. Definitely a no-go!

Tips to Sleep Better While Pregnant ¹

• Establish a Routine: Set a sleep schedule and stick to it. Your body will love you for this!
• Create a Comfortable Environment: Invest in a comfy mattress and use fluffy pillows to avoid discomfort.
• Stay Hydrated: Sip water during the day, but ease up in the evening to avoid midnight bathroom visits!
• Limit Caffeine: Time to switch to milk and juices! Minimize your caffeine intake, especially when the sun starts to set.

Is Not Getting Enough Sleep Harmful to Me or My Baby?

Yes, sleep matters – for both you and your baby. Skimping on sleep during pregnancy can lead to an increased risk of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and preterm labor. In addition, lack of sleep can cause mood swings and increased stress, negatively impacting your baby's growth and development.² So, make sure to prioritize getting enough sleep for the health of both you and your little one!

To ‘Wrap’ It Up

While our best sleeping positions for pregnancy will help you sleep better, there's one that tops it all - peace of mind! Being assured of your baby's well-being will help you stay calm and relaxed throughout this journey. But how can you be sure that is the case? The answer is simple - cord blood banking!

Stem cell or cord blood banking involves collecting, processing, and storing stem cells from the umbilical cord of a newborn baby, which can potentially be used to treat certain medical conditions. LifeCell makes this entire process easy, convenient, and hassle-free!

By choosing community stem cell banking with LifeCell, you will have direct access to as many as 75,000+ qualified cord blood units for your entire family. This means that if there's a need, you'll have a >97% chance of finding a match in LifeCell’s registry. For more information, call us at 18002665533 now.

*Disclaimer: The information in this blog is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

FAQs on Pregnancy Sleeping Positions

Q1. Can I Sleep On My Right Side During Pregnancy?

Sleeping on your right side is generally safe, but left side sleeping is preferable for optimal blood flow to the placenta.

Q2. When Should I Start Adjusting My Sleeping Position During Pregnancy?

It's advisable to transition to side sleeping in the first trimester, but the urgency increases as your belly grows.

Q3. What If I Wake Up On My Back?

Don't worry if you wake up on your back; simply reposition yourself to your side.