Sleep disorders in pregnancy

Causes of insomnia

Sleep disorders in pregnant women are not uncommon and various reasons can be to blame for the fact that you cannot get any rest at night.

• Especially in the last trimester of pregnancy, your round baby bump makes it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position.
• Calf cramps or restless legs syndrome, where you feel tingling and tugging in your legs, can keep you awake.
• In addition, the weight of the child puts pressure on the bladder and many pregnant women have to go to the toilet more often at night.
• In addition to these physical causes, the psyche also plays a decisive role in falling asleep. Worries, fears and restless brooding prevent you from falling asleep even though you feel tired.

Video: Bad sleep during pregnancy

5 tips to avoid sleeping problems during pregnancy

Hopefully the following 5 tips will help you sleep better for the rest of your pregnancy:

1st tip: Comfortable sleeping position

In order to lie comfortably despite a round baby bump, you can try to lie down on your side and support your belly with a nursing pillow. In our video we show you exactly what this sleeping position looks like.

2nd tip: prevent calf cramps

If you suffer from calf cramps, you should change your diet to foods rich in magnesium. If this is not enough, your doctor can prescribe you additional preparations.

3rd tip: walks against restlessness

Going for a walk in the evening helps to recharge your batteries and give your legs some exercise.

4th tip: relaxation exercises

Relaxation techniques, such as autogenic training or breathing exercises, help against negative thoughts. Open the window and take ten deep breaths in and out. Yoga exercises especially for pregnant women will also make you think differently.

5th tip: Catch up on sleep

Catch up on sleep when you have the opportunity. If you can’t get any sleep at night and are tired during the day, try a little nap in the afternoon. 20-30 minutes is enough to wake you up again.