Sleep and pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time when you need lots of sleep, but it can also be a time when you notice sleep problems. Find out why your sleep changes when you’re pregnant and what you can do about it.

Why sleep is important when you’re pregnant

When you’re pregnant, sleep is very important. Not only is it important for the growth and development of the baby, but it also helps reduce pregnancy complications. Research shows that women who don’t get enough sleep during pregnancy are at higher risk of developing gestational diabetes and high blood pressure. Other conditions that have been linked to poor sleep during pregnancy include:

• preeclampsia (a serious complication that can lead to premature birth and organ damage in the mother)
• low birth weight
• premature delivery
• painful labour
• caesarean birth
• depression

Poor sleep during pregnancy has also been linked to sleep problems in babies.

Common sleep problems during pregnancy

Unfortunately, sleep doesn’t always come easy during pregnancy. Changing hormones and a changing body can all contribute to a poor night’s sleep. It’s very common to need to go to the toilet more during the night, particularly in the early and later stages of pregnancy.

Backaches and leg cramps are also very common, and you may also start snoring even if you’ve never snored before. Other sleep problems that can occur during pregnancy include:

• restless leg syndrome
• obstructive sleep apnoea
• indigestion or gastroesophageal reflux disorder

What you can do

As pregnancy is a time when you need more sleep than usual, try to optimise the quality of sleep where you can. Some tips include:

• raise the head of your bed or use more pillows to manage indigestion
• sleep on your left side with your legs slightly curled, as this will facilitate blood flow throughout your body
• use extra pillows to support your belly and knees
• avoid sleeping on your back at the end of pregnancy as this can interfere with blood flow to your baby
• rest as much as you can during the day and take short naps if required
• keep a consistent bedtime
• stay active during the day where possible
• avoid caffeine before bedtime
• avoid spicy foods and heavy meals close to bedtime
• drink most of your fluids early in the day
• develop a good bedtime routine that promotes relaxation and sleep
• make sure your bedroom is the right temperature, dark and quiet.

Pregnancy is a time when you need the best quality sleep possible. An important part of sleeping well is sleeping on a mattress that provides you with the right amount of support. At BedGuard, we have a range of high-quality, supportive and waterproof mattresses that can support you during pregnancy and after your baby is born.

Come in-store and talk to our friendly team, or browse our range online.