Problems sleeping during pregnancy

Your baby is growing bigger, which can make it hard to find a good sleeping position. If you have always been a back- or stomach-sleeper, you might have trouble getting used to sleeping on your side (as health care providers recommend). Also, shifting around in bed becomes harder as you get bigger.

Other things that may keep you from sleeping include:

Try sleeping on your side. Lying on your side with your knees bent will likely be the most comfortable position. It makes it easier for your heart to pump because it keeps your baby from putting pressure on the large vein that carries blood back to the heart from your legs.

Many providers tell pregnant women to sleep on their left side. Sleeping on their left side also improves blood flow among the heart, fetus, uterus, and kidneys. It also keeps pressure off your liver. If your left hip becomes too uncomfortable, it is OK to switch to your right side for a while. It is best not to sleep flat on your back.

Try using pillows under your belly or between your legs. Also, using a bunched-up pillow or rolled-up blanket at the small of your back may relieve some pressure. You can also try an egg crate type of mattress on your side of the bed to give some relief for sore hips. It also helps to have extra pillows available to support your body.

These tips will safely improve your chances of getting a good night's sleep.

If stress or anxiety about becoming a parent is keeping you from getting a good night's sleep, try:

Do not take any sleep aids. This includes over-the-counter medicines and herbal products. They are not recommended for pregnant women. Do not take any medicines for any reason without talking to your provider.

Antony KM, Racusin DA, Aagaard K, Dildy GA. Maternal physiology. In: Landon MB, Galan HL, Jauniaux ERM, et al, eds. Gabbe's Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 3.

Balserak BI, O'Brien LM, Bei B. Sleep and sleep disorders associated with pregnancy. In: Kryger M, Roth T, Goldstein CA, Dement WC, eds. Principles and Practice of Sleep Medicine. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 186.



Review Date: 5/14/2024
Reviewed By: John D. Jacobson, MD, Professor Emeritus, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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