Added Thursday, September 20th, 2007 at 10:45 am | View Comments
Most people agree that the length of time you are able to sleep for is essential, but equally important is the quality of the sleep you are getting. Because there are biological conditions unique to women, such as pregnancy, the menopause and menstrual cycle, they may need to take into account different factors for getting a good nights rest than men would.
Understanding these different conditions and how they affect sleep, can help women achieve a better quality of sleep, especially when linked to environmental and lifestyle factors.
Sleeping and Pregnancy
Here are some sleeping tips to help pregnant women get a better night’s sleep:
1. Try to drink lots of fluids during the day, but drink less at night time.
2. Eating lots of spicy or fried foods can lead to heartburn. If you suffer from heartburn, try to prop your head with more pillows.
3. Regular exercise (consult your GP as to the intensity) can help you stay healthy, reduce the risk of leg cramps and improve circulation.
4. For women in their third trimester, try sleeping on your left side. This will ensure that blood flows effectively to the foetus, uterus and kidneys. Try to avoid laying on your back for long periods.
5. If you are constantly feeling nauseous, try to eat bland snacks, such as crackers, throughout the day. This will keep your stomach full.
6. Many pregnant women find that naps can help them feel more refreshed and help them sleep better at night.
7. Practice relaxation and breathing techniques. Doing this while taking a warm bath or shower before you go to bed could help you sleep more soundly.
Another important thing to consider is a mother’s sleep after she has given birth. Sharing the responsibility for attending to a newborn baby with a partner can be essential for the mother’s health, performance and vitality. If possible, mothers could also try napping when their babies do. If you are suffering from insomnia or any other sleep-related problems during your pregnancy, please consult your GP.
1 COMMENT
Wahoo
October 6th, 2007 at 11:13 am
Thank you for sharing!