Table of contents:
- The danger to the fetus if the mother sleeps on her back during pregnancy
- The risk to the mother if sleeping on her back during pregnancy
- The ideal sleeping position for pregnant women
Those of you who are pregnant, especially after entering the second trimester, may feel uncomfortable while sleeping. However, be careful when you try different sleeping positions. The reason is, sleeping on your back during pregnancy is a danger to the fetus and your own health. How come, huh? Read on for this article to find out the answer.
The danger to the fetus if the mother sleeps on her back during pregnancy
According to an expert on pregnancy and gynecology from the United States, dr. Richard Henderson, sleeping on your back during pregnancy can harm the fetus. The reason is, when you lie on your back, the weight from your uterus slows down blood circulation to the heart area. As a result, the heart has difficulty pumping and circulating blood to all parts of the body, including the fetus.
In fact, blood is needed by the fetus as a source of oxygen and nutrients. According to a study in New Zealand, this disruption of blood circulation can cause an unstable baby's heartbeat. However, from the studies that have been carried out, these dangers will generally only appear after the second trimester.
The risk to the mother if sleeping on her back during pregnancy
In addition to harming the baby, sleeping on your back during pregnancy can also pose various risks for you. Some of these include back pain, dizziness, hemorrhoids (hemorrhoids), difficulty breathing, low blood pressure (hypotension), and indigestion.
According to dr. Richard Henderson, actually sleeping on your back every now and then during pregnancy doesn't pose a serious enough risk, especially if it's just a few minutes. The reason is, while sleeping you may unconsciously change positions. Sleeping on your back during pregnancy will be at high risk if done every night.
The ideal sleeping position for pregnant women
However, to avoid any risks, try to sleep in the ideal position while pregnant. Sleeping on your left side is the safest way. With this position, your body and the fetus will receive very little pressure compared to other positions such as on your back, on your stomach, or on your right side. The reason is, the weight from the uterus will be moved to your side, not pressing on the stomach, liver, or other organs. Blood circulation becomes smoother if you sleep on your left side.
Get used to sleeping on your side. By getting used to this position, you will be less likely to change your position at bedtime. To make it more comfortable, you can also prop your stomach with a pillow.
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