Sleep during pregnancy

Feeling tired

The NHS says tiredness is common, especially in the first 12 weeks because of hormones, and later because of the extra weight.^[1] It says feeling tired will not harm you or your baby.^[1]

OWH lists trouble sleeping as a common change in the third trimester.^[2]

Sleep position

The NHS says it is fine to sleep on your stomach early in pregnancy.^[3]

The NHS says the safest position to go to sleep is on your side, left or right.^[1] It says research suggests that after 28 weeks, falling asleep on your back can double the risk of stillbirth.^[1]

The NHS says that if you wake up on your back, turn onto your side.^[1] It says this applies to naps too.^[3]

The NHS says sleeping on your side helps blood flow to the placenta.^[4]

Tips for sleeping better

• The NHS suggests pillows under your belly and between the knees.^[1]
• The NHS suggests relaxing before bed and avoiding afternoon or evening naps.^[1]
• The NHS suggests avoiding tea, coffee or cola in the evening.^[1]
• The NHS suggests antenatal yoga or Pilates and being active during the day.^[1]
• If you pee often at night, the NHS suggests drinking more during the day and less in the evening.^[5]

Dreams and worry

The NHS says strange dreams and nightmares about the baby or the birth are normal.^[1]

It says sleeplessness with hopelessness or loss of interest can be a sign of depression, and to speak to your doctor or midwife.^[1]

• Depression during pregnancy
• Emotions in pregnancy and after birth: where to get help