Pregnancy and Stomach Sleeping: Safety Assessment
In the journey of pregnancy, getting a good night's sleep can become increasingly challenging. However, the way one sleeps during this period may have significant implications for both mother and baby.
Research indicates that sleeping on the stomach during the early weeks of pregnancy does not appear to cause harm[1]. As the abdomen grows, many people find it increasingly difficult to sleep in this position due to discomfort.
As the third trimester approaches, the recommended sleeping position to reduce risks such as stillbirth is sleeping on the left side[2][3]. This position offers several advantages. Firstly, it improves blood flow to the placenta and fetus, ensuring they receive adequate oxygen and nutrients[3]. Secondly, it reduces pressure on major organs, such as the liver and kidneys, which can help prevent swelling and improve kidney function[3]. Lastly, sleeping on the left side during the third trimester could reduce late stillbirth by almost 6%[4].
While sleeping on the right side is not harmful, it does not provide the same level of blood flow benefits as sleeping on the left side[3]. To make side sleeping more comfortable, one can utilize pillows to support the body, such as between the knees and under the belly[1][5].
For those who find it uncomfortable to sleep on their side, placing a firm, supportive pillow under the abdomen can help reduce lower back stress[1]. Additionally, a pregnancy pillow shaped like a crescent can offer support to the arms and knees alike.
It's essential to note that sleeping on the back during pregnancy may lead to various symptoms such as difficulty breathing, problems with circulation, digestive issues, backache, low blood pressure, and hemorrhoids[6]. These symptoms may result in complications such as stillbirth, preeclampsia, low fetal birth weight, and reduced fetal growth rate[6].
However, the National Institutes of Health found no connection between going to sleep on the back or right side until the 30th week of pregnancy and complications linked to a decrease in placental blood flow[7].
In conclusion, while finding a comfortable sleeping position during pregnancy can be challenging, adhering to the recommended position of sleeping on the left side, especially during the third trimester, can help reduce risks such as stillbirth and ensure a healthier pregnancy for both mother and baby.
[1] American Pregnancy Association. (n.d.). Sleeping positions during pregnancy. Retrieved from https://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-complications/sleeping-positions-during-pregnancy/ [2] Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021). Sleeping on your left side during pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/sleep/art-20046553 [3] National Institutes of Health. (2021). Sleeping on your left side during pregnancy. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000628.htm [4] National Institutes of Health. (2021). Sleeping on your left side during pregnancy. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000628.htm [5] National Sleep Foundation. (2018). Sleeping during pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.sleepfoundation.org/pregnancy/sleeping-during-pregnancy [6] Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021). Sleeping on your back during pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/sleep/art-20046543 [7] National Institutes of Health. (2021). Sleeping on your back during pregnancy. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000629.htm
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