A baby and a woman at 9 months pregnant are ready to meet each other. Starting from this month, the fetus is already considered full-term, respectively, from 36 weeks it is necessary to have a ready-made bag with all the things that are on the list from the hospital.
It is worth noting that the ninth month of pregnancy is a turning point, and there is no longer any need to fear premature birth. Your child is already fully formed and ready to meet the outside world. His body has acquired proportional dimensions, and his lungs are ready to inhale air on their own. By this time, the fetus may well suck on its own mother's milk. It is the sucking reflex that will help him eat in the first year of life.
Nutrition at the 9th month of pregnancy
In the ninth month of pregnancy, it is worth reviewing your diet. The calcium requirement is no longer as high as it used to be. Hair does not fall out, it has become thicker. A large number of calcium contributes to the rapid closure of the fontanelle in the baby and an increase in intracranial pressure. At this point, you need to completely remove allergens from the daily menu. These include strawberries, chocolate and citrus fruits. Alcohol should not be included in the menu. The child's tendency to diathesis will depend on this.
All food during the ninth month of pregnancy must be thoroughly cooked. Cook meat and fish a little longer. At this time, it is very dangerous to catch E. coli. Therefore, if you constantly have diarrhea, donate feces for dysbiosis. After giving birth, the baby may have conjunctivitis or staphylococcus infection.At nine months of pregnancy, try to increase your daily intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. Reduce your consumption of fish and meat, these foods reduce the elasticity of the cervix, which can significantly prolong the birth process. This contributes to the appearance of gaps.
Nausea at 9 months pregnant
A few weeks before giving birth, bowel movements are disrupted. This is facilitated by the growing uterus, which displaces the internal organs from their usual places. Usually, nausea is observed with overeating and excessive consumption of smoked and fatty foods.
To improve the feeling and well-being, you need to eat often and little by little. Divide your daily diet into 5-6 meals. In the ninth month of pregnancy, heartburn is often observed, this is quite normal. To reduce the burning sensation, try not to sit down immediately after eating, but to walk a little. Large portions promote gastric acid back up into the esophagus.
What to do if there is edema at the 9th month of pregnancy?
The appearance of edema of the legs in the ninth month of pregnancy is facilitated by the pinching of the veins with a large belly. Blood circulation decreases in the pelvic area, respectively, the liquid does not have time to dissolve in time, the legs swell.
To reduce leg pain and swelling, try to spend as little time as possible in a sitting position.
Buy comfortable shoes and go for more walks in the fresh air. Never wear heels. To improve kidney function, drink "Kanefron" and rosehip decoction. These drugs improve fluid drainage. If you have depression, drink a soothing tea.
Discharge at 9 months of pregnancy
Normal vaginal discharge:
- pink or reddish after internal examination or sex;
- mucus streaked with blood a few weeks before childbirth;
- scanty white thick discharge.
And also the discharge of milk or colostrum from the breast is characteristic.
NINTH MONTH OF PREGNANCY
9 months of pregnancy in 14 minutes
Baby development in the 9th month of pregnancy
How I was preparing for childbirth)))))))))) 9th month of pregnancy)))
If you notice a strange slimy lump on your panties, it could be a plug that closes the entrance to the uterus. If your mucous plug has come off, then labor begins no later than in a week. It happens that this lump of mucus leaves just before childbirth, and this is accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen.
If, after consultation and examination on the chair, you find spotting, do not worry. Before the birth itself, the walls of the cervix become very sensitive, and the capillaries become fragile. After internal examination, scanty spotting is the norm. Some blood may appear after sex.
Is a cold at 9 months of pregnancy dangerous?
Acute respiratory diseases in the late stages are less dangerous than at the beginning of pregnancy. The temperature indicates an infection of the body, but it is not necessary to bring it down. A runny nose cannot be treated with vasoconstrictor drugs.
All organs of the child are fully formed, and he has the same immunity as his mother. Therefore, even if a cold provokes premature birth, your baby will be able to breathe and live without the help of doctors.
How to Improve Sleep?
Many pregnant women are worried about sleep, because a few weeks before giving birth, the belly increases in size, and the baby becomes active. Many women are not used to sleeping on their backs and therefore have difficulty falling asleep.
If you do not know how to sleep at 9 months of pregnancy, get a special pillow. This product is shaped like a horseshoe and will be useful for feeding your baby. A set of several pillows can be purchased. Sitting on your side will help improve sensation. Try not to overeat before going to bed, this will help prevent heartburn.
How to cure hemorrhoids at 9 months of pregnancy?
Signs of hemorrhoids:
- bloody discharge from the anus;
- itching and burning in the anal area;
- the appearance of hemorrhoids.
If you experience these symptoms, do not hesitate and see your doctor. Pregnancy promotes the accumulation of feces, which causes the large intestine to stretch. At the same time, the sensations are unpleasant, it will seem to you that you constantly want to use the toilet. Further cracks and nodules appear. To improve the sensation, try to avoid stool buildup. Therefore, eat fractionally, include a lot of fiber in the menu. You may be on a special diet. Gymnastics will help improve the condition. Take a laxative as recommended by your doctor, but diarrhea is not a way out of the situation and will not eliminate hemorrhoids. In almost all women, hemorrhoids disappear after childbirth.
With the onset of pregnancy, a woman's body constantly lacks calcium, respectively, there are problems with her teeth. Try to get all your teeth treated before pregnancy. If you are already in position, then it is not worth doing dental treatment in the first trimester. But what if the filling fell out before childbirth and is it possible to treat teeth at the 9th month of pregnancy? If you feel aching pain or your cheek is swollen, go to the clinic immediately. Anesthesia will not harm the fetus, since in the ninth month of pregnancy all organs and systems of the baby are formed.
What happens to the belly in the ninth month of pregnancy?
The ninth month of pregnancy is a watershed. After 35-36 obstetric week the bottom of the uterus sinks and the abdomen looks very low. You will notice that it becomes easier for you to sit and breathe, but it is difficult to bend over. Heartburn practically does not torment.
At this time, your child takes the final position, and his head presses on the pelvic bones. With light pressure and a small layer of fat, you can even feel the baby's head and bottom. Fetal movements become less pronounced. This is due to the fact that the baby is very cramped in the uterus. He practically cannot move. The abdomen at the 9th month of pregnancy drops, and the weight is established and does not increase. If you do not understand whether the belly has dropped or not, look at the photos of pregnant girls.
How to understand when it's time to go to the hospital?
Feelings at the 9th month of pregnancy are very diverse, sometimes it is difficult to determine the onset of childbirth. If you notice some kind of liquid on the pad that oozes a little and pulls on the lower abdomen, most likely you are losing water. Please note that the water practically does not smell, so if you notice a strange smell, tell your doctor. The amniotic fluid does not always flow out in a stream, sometimes leaks are possible.
In the last month of pregnancy, use panty liners so you can control the color and nature of your discharge. If you find that the color of the water is green or brown, be sure to tell the emergency doctor about it. This means that meconium is in the amniotic fluid and the baby may be infected. With uterine spasms that recur periodically, you need to call an ambulance and go to the hospital. At the very beginning, the sensations are not painful, and the interval between contractions can be 7-10 minutes. After a few hours, you will feel a cutting pain and contractions will become frequent. A video will help you prepare for childbirth. Good luck to you and your baby.
By 40 weeks of pregnancy, all signs of prematurity disappear in the fetus and there are all indicators inherent in a mature fetus. However, sometimes a full-term fetus may show some symptoms of immaturity, i.e. the concepts of "maturity" and "maturity" are not identical.
What can you expect during your next check-up
After 36 weeks of pregnancy, you will see your doctor every week. Both the mood and the content of these visits will remind you that "audition day" is approaching. You can expect your survey to cover the following points.
However, there may be a certain difference, depending on your particular situation and on the course of action of your doctor.
- Weighing (slowing down or stopping with increasing weight) and measuring blood pressure (it may be slightly higher than in the middle of pregnancy);
- Study of the presence of sugar and protein in urine;
- Study of the work of the fetal heart;
- Determination of the height of the fundus of the uterus;
- Determination of the size of the fetus (can you find out about the approximate weight of the child), determination of the position (first head or buttocks?) And the location of the fetus (face forward or backward?), As well as the height of the fetus.
- Examination of edema in the feet and hands, as well as the identification of varicose veins in the legs.
- Internal examination of the cervix (usually after 38 weeks of gestation) to determine its dilatation and, if necessary, to re-culture.
- Discussion of the phenomena you noticed, especially new ones.
- Determination of the frequency and time of continuation of the spasm of the preparing uterus (the so-called spasms of Braxton-Hicks).
- Clarification of emerging questions and doubts, especially concerning childbirth - prepare a list.
- You should also get information on how to determine the onset of labor and when you should call your doctor.
What can you feel in the ninth month of pregnancy
By 40 weeks of pregnancy, the bottom of the uterus drops to the level at which it was at 32 weeks of pregnancy, i.e. to the middle of the distance between the navel and the xiphoid process. Lowering of the fundus of the uterus can be determined by the following signs: it became much easier to breathe and sit on a chair, heartburn has decreased or disappeared. However, due to the low location of the head, periodic pain in the lower abdomen may occur, and the frequency of urination increases.
By the end of pregnancy, the uterus becomes excitable, its periodic irregular contractions - weak contractions, usually accompanied by pain and discomfort, become more noticeable. Thus, the body of the pregnant woman is gradually preparing for the upcoming birth. Even a doctor can not always say for sure whether this is the onset of labor or preparatory (preliminary) contractions occur. If the state of increased irregular excitability of the uterus lasts 1-2 days, accompanied by discomfort and sleep disturbance, then it is better to contact the maternity hospital, since a too long (pathological) preliminary period can lead to a deterioration in the condition of the fetus and requires treatment.
Mental phenomena:
- Increasing emotional uplift, anxiety, absent-mindedness, fear.
- Feeling of relief that childbirth is approaching.
- Excessive excitability, especially towards people who say: "Are you still here?"
- Impatience and excitement.
- Dreams and dreams of a child
What does a baby look like at 9 months of pregnancy
The fruit grows about 5 cm and about 1 kg of weight (by the time of birth, the fetus reaches an average length of about 50 cm and weighs more than 3 kg). Since the child becomes less and less space in the uterus, he is less and less mobile, which immediately begins to be noticed by the mother.
At the beginning of the month, the hair on the child's body becomes less, on the head, on the contrary, their number increases. He often sucks his thumb. The baby's skin is no longer so wrinkled, but still thin, reddish. By the end of the ninth month, the baby has already accumulated fat to keep warm after childbirth. Its organs are well developed.
At the end of the month, the baby's head is completely lowered into the pelvis. The vellus hair on the body has almost completely disappeared, except for the places on the shoulders, arms and legs. The amount of cheese-like lubricant on the skin has also decreased, it remains mainly in the folds, in the groin, in the armpits.
In the intestines of a child who is already functioning well, the original dark feces - meconium - accumulate. All systems and organs of the child are formed.
The baby is full-term.
Boys' testicles descend into the scrotum.
A sucking reflex is developed.
The baby has already taken the position in which he will be born.
It is most convenient to look at the baby's photo in the pregnancy calendar by week.
Ninth month of pregnancy by week:
We will gladly post your articles and materials with attribution.
Send information by mail
It's no secret that with the onset of pregnancy, a lot in a woman's life changes, this also applies to such a natural physiological process as sleep. Sleep during pregnancy is an important part of the normal functioning of the body. Often, expectant mothers have an increased need for sleep, and often they sleep 10 hours a day or more. This is the manifestation of the body's natural protective ability. More stress requires more hours of rest. And during pregnancy, the load is increased and energy is spent not only on ordinary daily activities, but also on bearing a baby. At the same time, fatigue develops faster, there is a need for longer sleep, which is beneficial for mother and fetus. If a woman overcomes drowsiness and does not allow herself to sleep as much as she wants, then often there are signs of disorder. nervous system, mental and physical performance decreases, adaptation of the body, immunity, coordination of movements is impaired, emotional status suffers. A pregnant woman needs to be protected from night work, but expectant mothers themselves are sometimes inattentive to their health and violate the daily routine, for example, preparing for exams at night or doing overtime work.
It is important to understand that lack of sleep during pregnancy affects not only the health and well-being of the pregnant woman, but also the growing body of the fetus. So, for example, even ordinary daytime fatigue is enough to cause an increase in fetal movements and a change in its heart rate. This means that the conditions for breathing and nutrition of the baby deteriorate. Therefore, when the expectant mother is overworked, conditions can be created that disrupt the life of the fetus, and with their frequent repetition, they can harm its development.
For a pregnant woman, it is also important that during sleep, the secretion of prolactin, a hormone that stimulates lactation, increases. This is an important process as colostrum, primary milk, begins to form by the end of pregnancy.
What prevents a pregnant woman from sleeping?
Sleep is a complex neurochemical process that is influenced by many factors, both internal and external. The change in sleep while waiting for the baby is influenced by the restructuring of the hormonal status of the woman's body. So, progesterone, the level of which increases during pregnancy, significantly increases ventilation of the lungs, which makes breathing quicker and prevents the development of hypoxia (oxygen starvation) in the unborn baby. However, this can disrupt the night's sleep of the expectant mother, causing a feeling of lack of air and the desire to take a deep breath. It also causes drowsiness and constant tiredness throughout the day. More often this condition occurs in the first half of pregnancy, when the action of this hormone predominates.
In the second half of pregnancy, the level of estrogen gradually increases and their ratio with progesterone levels off, so sleep becomes somewhat calmer. There is no longer such constant drowsiness, but a new obstacle appears: a growing belly can cause discomfort, and if a woman, for example, previously preferred to sleep on her stomach, then she will have to look for new positions for rest. Nasal congestion and runny nose, which are often observed during this period, can interfere with normal sleep during pregnancy, since the increasing amount of estrogen causes swelling of the mucous membrane respiratory tract and increases mucus secretion.
In the third trimester, it is most difficult for the expectant mother to find a comfortable position because of the significantly enlarged abdomen. In addition, the uterus supports the diaphragm, which often makes it difficult to breathe, there is a feeling of lack of air or incomplete inhalation. This problem is especially aggravated in summer, when the weather is hot and sometimes even the night does not bring relief. The uterus also presses on bladder and the stomach, which causes frequent urge to urinate and heartburn. Cramps in the calf muscles, back pain, itching in the abdomen due to stretching of the skin can also disturb. And the baby's movements become more active and tangible and often cause significant discomfort, disrupting sleep. And in the summer, besides the heat, the expectant mother may be disturbed by annoying insects - mosquitoes, midges and flies.
Good sleep rules during pregnancy
Daily regime
The duration and quality of a pregnant woman's sleep is largely determined by the correct regimen and behavior during the day. Therefore, it is necessary to start the struggle for a full night's rest in the morning. If the expectant mother is accustomed to sleeping for some time during the day, you can try to give up daytime sleep for a few days, or at least shorten its time - perhaps this measure will be enough and the night sleep will be restored.
How to cope with insomnia during pregnancy: eliminate stress and overwork
The next point: you need to try to avoid overvoltage. Fatigue accumulated during the day does not always lead to sound sleep; often, after a hard day, a woman simply cannot relax. You should not think in advance about insomnia during pregnancy as an inevitable condition; fear of nighttime torment can aggravate the situation and prevent falling asleep. It is not recommended to do things in the evening that require physical and intellectual effort. And, of course, you should not watch action films, horror films, thrillers or negative TV programs at night.
Physical activity to normalize the sleep of a pregnant woman
During the day, it is advisable for the expectant mother to perform a set of simple physical exercises that your obstetrician-gynecologist may recommend. Hiking, especially before going to bed, and swimming in the pool are very useful, if there are no contraindications from the side of health.
Relaxation
Relaxing treatments such as a warm bath with a few drops can be tried to help the pregnant woman sleep better at night and to make it easier to fall asleep. essential oil lavender, rose, lemon balm, jasmine, chamomile. They are used both independently and as a mixture. To scent the air, you can use a special aroma lamp, or drip it onto the corners of the pillow, or put a napkin soaked in essential oil at the head of the bed.
Also, the expectant mother can ask her husband or someone close to do a relaxing massage before going to bed. This procedure will relieve back and lower back pain, foot massage and ankle joints help to avoid cramps.
To fall asleep faster, the expectant mother is advised to focus on her breathing and take slow and deep breaths in and out. Relaxing music or sounds of nature - the sound of the forest, surf, sea or rain - also help many.
Before going to bed, you can smear the skin of the abdomen with lotion, this will prevent itching.
Nutrition
Particular attention should be paid to nutrition. You should not eat heavy, high-calorie foods shortly before bedtime (no later than 2 hours before bedtime) or overeat, this will make it difficult to fall asleep and can provoke heartburn. It is also not recommended to drink a lot at night, which will help to get up less often at night to use the toilet. Strong black and green teas should not be consumed, as they have tonic properties.
Making ourselves comfortable
To combat insomnia, the correct organization of the sleeping place plays an important role. It is advisable to turn off your phone, including your mobile phone, it is not recommended to put it next to you, as electromagnetic waves can affect the quality of sleep and, in general, the body as a whole. Keeping the bedroom cool (but avoiding hypothermia in your feet - you can sleep in socks) will make it easier to fall asleep. In the cold season, be sure to ventilate the room before going to bed, and in the hot season, leave the window open, taking care of using insect repellents in advance or installing mosquito nets on the windows to avoid an excruciating night of bites. If a pregnant woman cannot sleep with an open window or vent, turn on the air conditioner for night mode, without setting too low a temperature, so as not to overcool.
Choose sleepwear made from natural materials, it should not hinder movement and breathing.
The mattress and bed should also be comfortable. An orthopedic mattress helps a pregnant woman sleep well, contributing to the correct position of the spine and muscle relaxation. You can purchase a special crescent-shaped maternity pillow. It is recommended to place it between the legs, under the stomach and under the head. You can also use a few small pillows.
If your toddler starts pushing hard or is very active, try changing his position. This may be due to the fact that, due to an uncomfortable position, the blood supply to the crumbs has worsened, but it also happens that he is just awake, then you have to wait until he calms down.
Many of the usual sleeping positions during pregnancy have to be abandoned. So, for example, sleeping on the stomach is allowed up to 12 weeks, that is, until the second trimester, when the abdomen has not increased too much, the uterus is still small and reliably protected by the pubic bones, so this position is not capable of causing any harm to the developing baby. In the first and second trimesters, it is also possible to sleep on the back: due to its size, the uterus is not yet capable of strongly compressing the surrounding organs, blood vessels and nerves of the expectant mother. However, starting from 12 weeks, it is still advisable to lie on the side, especially if a woman, lying on her back, feels dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea and any abdominal discomfort. This means that the pregnant uterus interferes with blood flow in the inferior vena cava. It is undesirable to sleep on the right side after 20 weeks: in this position, the uteroplacental blood supply may deteriorate and the baby will suffer from a lack of oxygen. He begins to "worry", actively pushing, and this is a signal for mom that she needs to change her posture. It is best to sleep on your left side during pregnancy. In this position, blood flow to the baby improves and swelling decreases.
Only according to indications!
As for the use of drugs to combat insomnia during pregnancy, they are mostly contraindicated, since they can have a negative effect on the fetus, accumulate in the body and cause liver and kidney damage. Only a doctor can prescribe any drugs, and only on strict indications.
By the hour?
There is such a thing as biorhythms, they can also affect the quality of night sleep. Biorhythms are periodically repeating changes in the nature and intensity of biological processes and phenomena in a living organism. The biological clock mechanism is located in the hypothalamus (diencephalon) and has a complex structure, where hormonal factors play a leading role. Note that the child before birth, in the womb of the mother, already has its own biorhythms. During the day, the course of the "clock" is uneven: it is able to slow down or accelerate, which affects the metabolism of both the mother and the child. It is noticed that in 24 hours there are 5 rises in activity and 5 its recessions. Rises are most often from 5 to 6 in the morning, from 11 to 12, from 16 to 17, from 20 to 21, from 24 to 1 in the morning. Recessions: from 2 to 3 o'clock, from 9 to 10 o'clock, from 14 to 15 o'clock, from 18 to 19 o'clock and from 22 to 23 o'clock. If a pregnant woman suddenly really wants to get some sleep, there is no need to try to overcome yourself, nature itself tells you how to do the right thing. The expectant mother can observe her sensations, fetal movements and draw conclusions about the periods of activity and her recessions characteristic of her and her baby. Thus, it will be easier for her to properly organize her daily routine, get rid of poor health, including insomnia.
Natural sleeping pill
Before going to bed, it is advisable to drink a glass of warm milk (you can add cinnamon, a little honey or sugar to it) or herbal tea (chamomile, lemon balm, thyme, mint), which have a relaxing effect.
Milk contains tryptophan, which can be called a mild natural sleeping pill. This substance has a calming, sedative effect, and honey promotes its rapid penetration into the blood. You can eat a small boiled turkey sandwich before bed (this poultry is also rich in tryptophan), in addition, it is beneficial to introduce more foods rich in this amino acid into your daily diet. These are all varieties of red meats, cheeses, nuts, fish, eggs, dairy products, bananas.
All nine months of pregnancy are accompanied by numerous “no's”. Doctors limit certain foods, alcoholic beverages, strong physical activity... Even some sleeping positions are prohibited.
A growing belly and a general change in the body pose multiple problems for a pregnant woman: how to go to bed correctly in the third trimester and in the early stages, is it possible to fall asleep on the back during pregnancy and on which side it is preferable to lie - left or right.
If a big tummy prevents you from sleeping, expert advice will help solve this problem.
Pregnancy is characterized by a sharp increase in the need for sleep. A pregnant woman, who is not even aware of her interesting situation, notices that at any free moment she is just waiting for the moment to put her head on the pillow and take a nap. “I sleep all the time,” - this is how women describe their condition.
- The uterus begins to squeeze the internal organs, including the intestines. This leads to problems with its emptying, increased gas formation.
- The pressure on the lower back can lead to painful sensations in the region of the spinal column and small pelvis. The pains are different - both constantly aching and sharp, "shooting".
- This position threatens the course of pregnancy, so a pregnant woman who says “I only sleep on my back” risks her health. In this position, the inferior vena cava is compressed, which ensures the movement of blood from the legs to the upper body. In this case, pregnant women need help, since such negative signs develop as:
- lack of oxygen;
- a sharp drop in blood pressure;
- dizziness;
- violation of consciousness.
- Pregnancy is a period when the well-being of the child depends on the mother's condition. If a pregnant woman constantly sleeps on her back, it can be argued that the fetus does not receive the required amount of oxygen. As a result of such starvation, hypoxia may develop, as a result of which impaired formation is observed child's body... After giving birth, the child does not eat well, sleeps, and is distinguished by increased anxiety.
If a pregnant woman is expecting two or more children or the pregnancy is accompanied by polyhydramnios, it is better not to sleep on your back from 14 weeks. This advice is relevant if the baby's head is very low and there is a risk of spontaneous abortion.
It doesn't matter what month the woman is in, a good rest is required both at the beginning and at the end of the period of bearing a child. To regain strength and sleep, a pregnant woman should carefully read the following helpful tips.
- Do not use sedatives or sleeping pills without the prior approval of your doctor. Each medication can negatively affect the condition of the fetus.
- Avoid drinks containing the tonic caffeine before bed. It is important to give up both strong coffee and green tea.
- For a couple of hours before falling asleep, do not eat anything (especially heavy foods) so that there is no heaviness in the stomach. You should also reduce the amount of fluid consumed three to four hours before going to bed.
- An evening walk is a good opportunity to get some air, get distracted and do some exercise. However, excessive stress should be avoided by pregnant women.
- Maintaining a daily routine is essential for good sleep. Try to train yourself to fall asleep and open your eyes at specific times.
- Insomnia and frequent nighttime getting up can be caused by sudden seizures. In this case, it is necessary to consult a doctor who will advise relaxing massage movements, the inclusion of calcium-containing foods in the diet, or special preparations.
- “I don't sleep because of the fear of childbirth,” - this is how many women explain sleep problems. If you are not spared by the fear of a maternity hospital, go to courses for expectant mothers, chat with positive and already given birth friends.
- The right pillows for women in position can improve the quality of sleep. Rollers are commercially available in various shapes - in the form of a horseshoe, bagel, banana, etc. They allow you to sit comfortably on the bed and tuck your tummy into a cozy "nest".
The correct position will help ensure a good sleep.
It is important to remember that the closer to childbirth, the more dangerous it is to sleep on the back and stomach. The best position is on the side, right or left (whichever is more comfortable).
This habit should be developed already in the first trimester, and to sleep even better, you can purchase a special pillow. Pleasant dreams!
In anticipation of the baby, many women refuse to sleep on their backs, explaining this by feeling unwell and fearing for the health of the child. Are there any risks in this situation? Why should pregnant women not sleep on their backs, and what position should be chosen for sleeping during this difficult period?
Supine position
In the supine position, a pregnant woman can safely sleep for up to 14-16 weeks. Problems can arise only with severe toxicosis. In the supine position, nausea increases, vomiting appears, worsens general well-being future mother. With severe toxicosis in the first trimester, one should refrain from the position on the back.
It is not recommended for pregnant women to sleep on their backs after 16 weeks. At this time, the uterus goes beyond the bosom and with its entire mass presses on the abdominal organs. It also goes to the inferior vena cava - one of the largest vessels human body... When the vena cava is compressed by the growing uterus, quite unpleasant symptoms arise:
- noise in ears;
- flashing flies before the eyes;
- dyspnea;
- labored breathing;
- increased heart rate;
- the fall blood pressure;
- loss of consciousness.
The supine position is also unfavorable for the baby. When the inferior vena cava is compressed, blood supply to the pelvic organs and placenta slows down, oxygen supply is impaired and nutrients to the fetus. Hypoxia develops, rates decrease physical development, which naturally affects the health of the child after his birth. The conclusion is simple: you should not sleep on your back after 16 weeks of pregnancy.
Position on the stomach
The expectant mother can sleep on her stomach only up to 10-12 weeks. In the first trimester, as long as the uterus does not extend beyond the pubic bone, this position will be completely safe for the growing baby. In the early stages, a prone position can even be beneficial for a woman. In this position, the manifestations of toxicosis decrease, sleep improves, and the load on the spine decreases. Many women sleep well only on their stomachs, stretching their arms out in front of them or placing them under their heads.
After 12 weeks, you cannot sleep on your stomach. In the second trimester, the uterus grows and extends beyond the pelvis, located in the abdominal cavity. In the prone position, the woman with all her weight presses on the baby in her womb. This position is dangerous for the fetus and is not permissible in the II and III trimester of pregnancy.
If a pregnant woman wants to lie on her stomach, you can sit between large bolsters or pillows, covering yourself with a soft cloth on all sides. In this position, there is no load on the abdomen, there is no compression of the uterus, placenta and fetus. It is not recommended to stay in the position on the stomach (even between the pillows) for more than 10-15 minutes in a row.
Lateral position
The position on the left or right side is the most comfortable position during pregnancy. In this position, the pelvic and abdominal organs are not compressed, the blood flow in the placenta is not disturbed, the baby does not suffer. You can sleep on your side from the moment of conception to the very birth.
The choice of the comfortable side in the lateral position will depend on the feelings of the expectant mother. Many women cannot sleep on their right side during pregnancy. It contains the liver and gallbladder - important organs of the digestive system. When they are squeezed, heartburn and abdominal pain appear, intestinal motility increases. The appearance of any unpleasant symptoms is a reason to change the position of the body and gently roll over onto the left side.
How to choose a sleeping position?
When choosing a comfortable sleeping position, a pregnant woman should adhere to some rules:
- Up to 12 weeks it is allowed to sleep in any comfortable position.
- After 12 weeks, you should not sleep on your stomach.
- In the third trimester, all supine examinations should be performed with sufficient caution. If you feel worse, you should change your posture (roll over on your side).
- The optimal sleeping position during pregnancy is on the left side. In this position, you should stretch the left leg, and bend the right at the knee. In this position, the load on the abdominal muscles decreases and the uterus relaxes.
- You should not sleep on a surface that is too hard and, on the contrary, too soft. The sleeping mattress should be of medium firmness, without dips and irregularities.
- Do not sleep in one position for a long time. It is necessary to change the position every 2-4 hours.
- For convenience, you can use special pillows.
Pregnancy pillows are the best helper for the expectant mother. The special cushions look like horseshoe-shaped bolsters from 140 to 220 cm long. The filler for pillows are safe materials - synthetic fluff or holofiber. The pillow can be placed under the lower back or between the legs in a lateral position. Such pillows relieve stress on the spine, relieve tension from back muscles and create conditions for restful, comfortable sleep. After giving birth, pillows can help the woman get into a comfortable position to feed her baby.