Pregnancy

4 Tips For Getting Enough Sleep When Pregnant

Everyone knows that when you're pregnant it can be difficult to sleep. Sometimes it's just difficult to findthe right position. Other times, the baby might be moving around a lot.

Whatever the reason, getting comfortable when you're trying to sleep can be difficult.

Here are some tips for getting more sleep when you're pregnant.

• Sleep on your left side. Sleeping on your left side improves the flow of blood and nutrients to the placenta. It also helps the kidneys to eliminate more fluids, thus helping to keep your ankles not so swollen.
   
• After the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, don't sleep on your back. It is okay during the first 20 weeks, but after that the uterus will put too much weight on the artery going from your legs to your heart causing reduced blood flow to your baby.
   
• Sleep on your belly or your right side if this is the most comfortable. It's fine to do so, but most women prefer not to sleep on their belly once they're in the 3rd trimester.
   
• Sleep with an electric blanket if you need to, just make sure your body temperature does not go higher than 100 degrees. If it does go above 100 degrees, this can endanger your baby.