Tips to Help You Sleep Comfortably During the Third Trimester

The third trimester of pregnancy can bring many discomforts for moms-to-be. Finding comfortable positions to sit, sleep, and stand becomes increasingly challenging as your belly grows. Getting a good night’s sleep, which is essential for your well-being, often becomes a common complaint during this stage. Along with your growing belly, you may experience added pressure on your bladder, back pain, heartburn, leg cramps, vivid dreams, shortness of breath, congestion, and insomnia. While finding a position that works for the whole night may seem impossible, there are ways to find some relief, even if it’s temporary.

Most doctors recommend that pregnant women lie on their left side. This position promotes optimal blood flow to your body and uterus and keeps you off of your liver. However, if you find that you are more comfortable on your right side, there is no reason you can’t sleep on that side.

Tips for a Comfortable Sleep:

1. Use a Body Pillow:
A body pillow is one of the most commonly used items for sleep during pregnancy. They range from generic long, rectangular pillows to more elaborate curved maternity pillows. These pillows help alleviate the pressures of your growing belly and support your legs and hips in a more comfortable position. You can find them at large department stores.

2. Manage Frequent Urination:
Frequent urination can interrupt your sleep, making it difficult to get back to sleep. To ease this, limit your liquid intake after 4 PM and ensure you empty your bladder completely during each bathroom trip. Leaning forward when urinating can help with this.

Also read: Will My Appetite Change During Pregnancy?

3. Alleviate Heartburn:
Heartburn can vary from uncomfortable to downright painful. Over-the-counter remedies such as TUMS, Mylanta, and Gaviscon can help, as well as lying in a semi-upright position. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication.

4. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine:
Taking a warm bath and drinking a non-caffeinated hot drink, such as warm milk, can help set the mood for a restful night.

5. Prevent Leg Cramps:
To prevent leg cramps, stay hydrated during the day. Stretch your calf muscles, rotate your ankles, and wiggle your toes throughout the day.

6. Reduce Nasal Congestion:
Swollen nasal passages can cause congestion and snoring, which can wake you up or keep you from falling asleep. Try sleeping with a humidifier in the bedroom and open windows if possible. Sleeping on your side can also help alleviate congestion.

Hopefully, these tips will help you find some comfort and get a good night’s rest before the sleepless nights arrive along with your new baby!

Also read: The Importance Of Calcium During Pregnancy