Getting a Good Night Sleep During Pregnancy

Starting at the moment you find out you are pregnant, you may find getting a restful night of sleep may be more difficult. There are many reasons you may find it difficult to sleep during pregnancy. You may be waking for frequent trips to the bathroom. Bouts of heartburn may also make it difficult to fall asleep. Your baby's fetal movement may wake you up or your bulging belly may just make it hard to find a comfortable position to sleep in. However, there are some things you can do to help you fall asleep and stay asleep during pregnancy.

1. Don't eat or drink at least two hours before bed. Eating right before bed increases your chances of having heartburn. Sleeping in a semi-upright position may help ease discomfort from heartburn and indigestion.

2. Eliminate caffeine. This may be an obvious tip, but many women do continue to consume caffeine in pregnancy. If you haven't been able to cut out your morning cup of coffee, at least cut out caffeine in the afternoon and evening hours.

3. Purchase a full size body pillow. Sleeping on your left side is best for baby. It will help improve blood flow to your baby, but not all of us enjoy side sleeping. Using a body pillow can help you find a comfy position. Putting a pillow between your knees can help ease the pressure from the extra weight of baby making it easier to fall asleep.

4. During the last months of pregnancy, you may find Braxton Hicks contractions keeping you up at a night. Keeping well hydrated and making frequent trips to the bathroom during the day may help with this. Also, be sure to rest frequently with your feet up. This may cut down the amount of Braxton Hicks contractions and discomfort at night.

5. Regular exercise is still important during pregnancy. Simply going on a short walk daily will help with circulation, aid in digestion, and may help you sleep easier at night.

6. Pregnancy can be a stressful time for some women. You may find it difficult to sleep due to anxiety. Using relaxation techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises, progressive tightening and relaxation of muscles, and quiet music or nature sounds may be helpful for you to get a good night sleep.

7. Nap during the day. It may be impossible to get a perfect night sleep during pregnancy. If you find yourself still tired during the day, resting or napping may help with fatigue.

Author Bio: Teresa Redmond is a wife and mother to 6 children. She is the co-founder of Justmommies.com.