Having trouble sleeping?
Fear not as this is a common problem amongst pregnant women and it is short lived.
Disruptions in sleeping patterns are commonly caused by anxiety and or stress, discomfort, hormonal changes in the body and the need to empty your bladder.
Stress/Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are both very normal feelings to be experiencing, especially at the later stages of your pregnancy.
The key here is to surround yourself with positive people, read to gain an understanding of the changes your body is going through, create a birth plan, rehearse the drive to the hospital, have your hospital bag packed, ask lots of questions, attend regular health care visits and indulge in meditation and or quite time for reflection.
Being prepared will help to eliminate stress and uncertainty.
PJ’s
Wear cool, non-restrictive PJ’s to bed. PJ’s made from soft natural fabrics such, as cotton, bamboo or modals are ideal, as they will help to regulate your body temperature allowing it to breath. Natural fabrics are also less likely to irritate the skin resulting in a much more comfortable sleep.
Breast support
Throughout pregnancy your bust will continue to change and they are likely to be much larger and heavier than they were pre-pregnancy.
Invest in a good maternity sleep bra. These bras are made from soft luxurious fabrics and are designed to separate and support your breasts during sleep.
Keeping your breasts well supported will help to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep.
Comfortable bed
Invest time in preparing a comfortable bed. Make the bed each day and invest in extra pillows for front and back support as well as one for between the legs.
Using pillows, as supports will allow your muscles to completely relax.
Bedroom
Use your bed for sleep and sex only.
Avoid watching TV, reading, talking or eating in bed. Activities such as these can disrupt sleeping behavior and mess with your sleeping routine.
Keep cool
Avoid a hot stuffy bedroom. Keep the room ventilated and cool at all times to help ensure a good night’s sleep.
Leaving the window ajar or using a fan are both great ways to help keep the air circulating.
Sleep routine
Establish a routine and stick with it.
Go to bed at the same time and wake up at the same time every day. This way your body gets into a routine and expectations are set.
Your chance of sleeping through the entire night is dramatically increased.
Keep active
Keeping fit and healthy throughout your pregnancy is integral to feeling good.
Not only will the exercise help to tire your body out, but it will also help to keep it strong.
Working the muscles daily will help to eliminate common pregnancy complaints such as backache, sore legs, swollen ankles etc.
A fit strong body will automatically sleep better as it feels less aches and pains.
Eat well
Eat regularly throughout the day. Choose healthy snack options and try to avoid too much sugary treats particularly before bedtime. Food high in sugar could affect your ability to fall asleep.
Water
You should be drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Stop drinking at least 1 hour before bed. This will allow your body to empty the bladder before sleep. An empty bladder before bed will help to ensure less disruption through the night.
Like many women out there, Tracey Montford is an exceptional multi-tasker! Apart from steering a global business, managing 2 young boys & keeping the clan clean and fed, Tracey still finds time to provide creative inspiration and direction to the exceptional designs of Cake Maternity. From the branding, presentation and delivery, creativity is a big part of what Tracey does so naturally and effectively. Find out more at https://www.cakematernity.com/ or catch up with her on social @cakematernity