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Pregnant Women Warned: Avoid Stomach Sleeping for Baby's Health

Sleeping on the stomach can harm both mother and baby. Find out why and how to adjust your sleep habits during pregnancy.

There is a woman lying on bed beside her there are pillows and a window and curtain hanging on...
There is a woman lying on bed beside her there are pillows and a window and curtain hanging on other side.

Pregnant Women Warned: Avoid Stomach Sleeping for Baby's Health

Pregnant women, especially in the later stages, are advised against sleeping on their stomach due to potential health risks. This position can exert pressure on the spine and reduce space for the growing baby.

In the final stages of pregnancy, sleeping on the stomach is not feasible as the placenta and uterus can apply pressure to the organs in the abdominal area. To mitigate discomfort during earlier stages when sleeping on the stomach is necessary, using a flat and soft pillow like an orthopedic fluffy pillow can help alleviate neck strain.

Stomach sleeping can lead to pain in the neck, back, or joints, negatively impacting sleep quality. To counter these effects, using a thin pillow or no pillow at all, placing a pillow under the pelvis, and stretching in the mornings can be beneficial. However, it's important to note that this position can negatively affect the spine and cause discomfort throughout the day. It also requires turning the head to the side, which can twist the neck and cause misalignment, potentially leading to neck problems, including a herniated disk, over time.

Pregnant women should avoid sleeping on their stomach due to the increased pressure on the spine and reduced space for the baby. This position can lead to spinal stress, causing pain, tingling, or numbness in various parts of the body. Instead, sleeping on the left side is recommended to increase healthy blood flow and provide optimum oxygen levels for both the mother and the baby.

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