2. Some experts specifically recommend lying on your left side as this prevents your uterus putting pressure on your liver and allows for the best blood flow to the baby, uterus and kidneys. However lying on either side is useful.It may be worth experimenting with some pillows to aid comfort. You can use one to support your belly, or put one between your legs and also use one at your back to help prop you up. Some full length body pillows can really assist with improving the quality of your sleep.
3. Keep a regular wake-up and bedtime. This will help to regulate your body clock and train your body to sleep and wake at certain times. Make sure that you are getting enough sleep. Most adults need 7-9 hours and during pregnancy mums-to-be sometimes need a little more.
4. Try to cut down on caffeinated drinks like tea and coffee. Too much caffeine affects sleep and during your pregnancy if sleep is an issue it may be worth restricting your intake to the morning or at least early afternoon. During pregnancy you should limit your caffeine intake to 200mg/day (which is approx. 1-2cups of coffee or 2-4 cups of tea)
5. Avoid eating large meals or drinking fluids close to bedtime. Ensure that you are eating a balanced diet throughout the day but avoid eating a large meal within a few hours of bedtime. You might find that it helps to have your dinner as the smallest meal of the day to avoid discomfort during sleep-time. Furthermore, ensure that you take in the recommended 8-10 cups of fluid during the day but try to cut down as bedtime approaches.
6. Prevent heartburn interfering with your sleep, avoid large amounts of spicy, acidic or fried foods. If you are already suffering in this department, consider elevating your head with pillows.
7. Try not to do any strenuous exercise too close to bedtime. Regular exercise during the day will improve your circulation and reduce leg cramps, but doing this too close to bedtime will make it hard for you to go to sleep. Indulge in something relaxing like a warm bath or hot drink.
8. Manage leg cramps by pressing your feet hard against a wall, or standing on the leg
9. Learn some relaxation and breathing techniques that you can use at bedtime. Take a pregnancy yoga class-be sure to consult your GP before undertaking a new activity.
10. Take a day time nap-if you feel like you need to sleep do. Pretty soon you will be having frequent night waking with your baby and it won’t be about you anymore! So grab some rest whenever your body indicates that it needs it. Short 30-60 minutes sleeps during the day can help make up for lost sleep.
11. For those times when you just can’t sleep, don’t just lay there tossing and turning and worrying about how little sleep you are getting. Get up and do something away from the bedroom. Visit the nursery, read a book, listen to music and try again a little later.
Lucy Wolfe, CGSC, MAPSC, Paediatric Sleep Consultant, birth-6 years.
