When we’re pregnant sleep is something that we’ll be doing a lot.  Although it may seem like it takes up too much time during the day, it is essential for you and your baby to have a healthy pregnancy.  Without sleep you’ll be worn out, stressed, and your baby won’t be getting everything it needs on a daily basis. 

Once you start to show and you have that little bump we often worry about how we should be sleeping.  If you have any questions about which side you should be sleeping on, and what to avoid during sleep continue read below to get your questions answered!  Not to mention, if you’re having a hard time sleeping, be sure to consider one of these great pregnancy pillows!  They’ve received excellent reviews and are highly recommended!

Is it safe to sleep on your back?

Sleeping on your back is safe, but it’s not recommended during the 3rd trimester.  You don’t want to lay on your back for hours at a time simply because the increased weight of your uterus will put pressure on the major vein that returns blood from your legs to your heart.

Is it safe to sleep on your stomach?

While laying on your stomach in early pregnancy is fine, you won’t want to do it for much longer after that.  Sleeping on your stomach won’t be comfortable, and you could be squishing things you don’t want to. 

Is it safe to lay on your side?

Laying on your side is very safe.  It is actually recommended.  Since laying on your back and your stomach may cause you problems, laying on your side will be the most comfortable and safest way to sleep at night.  It is recommended that you lay on your left side as much as possible.

Can I use an electric blanket while pregnant?

Yes, you are allowed to use an electric blanket.  You just want to make sure that the temperature doesn’t exceed 102 degrees.  If you’re warm and not too hot, you’ll be just fine.

Is it safe to use sleeping pills?

There isn’t any known medicine that you can take to help get you to fall asleep.  Therefore, I wouldn’t take anything that you haven’t talked to your doctor about first.  Just try to relax, make the room dark, and have little to no noise around you.  It’s better to fall asleep naturally than with the help of drugs.

Since pregnancy is a time where you need to really take care of yourself, it is important to ask your doctor about any questions you may have.  These are some of the most common questions, but if you’re looking for anything more, be sure to ask your doctor before you take action!