Insomnia is the complaint of inadequate sleep. It is common during pregnancy and affects the majority of pregnant women. It may be caused by hormonal changes and physical discomforts during pregnancy. Insomnia may be the result of the following :
- difficulty returning to sleep
- waking up frequently at night
- difficulty falling asleep
What are some of the causes of insomnia during pregnancy ?
The following may be the reason for inadequate sleep during pregnancy.
- back pain
- heartburn
- hormonal changes
- growing size of the belly
- anxiety
- increased daytime sleepiness
- frequent or vivid dreams
- anticipation of the arrival of the baby
How can I manage insomnia during pregnancy ?
These tips may help you get better sleep during pregnancy.
- use extra pillows to support your tummy and back to make sleeping easier. A pillow in-between your legs may also help
- try relaxation techniques such as yoga and massage to help calm your mind and relax your muscles
- exercise during the day
- drinking a glass of milk can help you go to sleep. Foods high in carbohydrates such as crackers can also promote sleep.
- create a comfortable and quiet atmosphere in your room to promote sleep
Content Sources
Insomnia during pregnancy. American Pregnancy Association. http://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/insomnia-during-pregnancy/ . Accessed November 24, 2014
Sleep and pregnancy WebMD. http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/guide/pregnancy-insomnia. Accessed November 24, 2014
Sleeping By the Trimesters: 1st Trimester. National Sleep Foundation. http://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-news/sleeping-the-trimesters-1st-trimester. Accessed November 24, 2014
Sleep and pregnancy WebMD. http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/guide/pregnancy-insomnia. Accessed November 24, 2014
Sleeping By the Trimesters: 1st Trimester. National Sleep Foundation. http://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-news/sleeping-the-trimesters-1st-trimester. Accessed November 24, 2014