i've been reading alot since i found out that i am having my first child. in my reading i have come across the tip to sleep on my left side... but here's the thing... i am more comfortable on my right side, so do i really need to sleep on my left side? and also why should i sleep on my left side?
2006-11-25 03:58:07 · 8 answers · asked by NewMommy!!! 3 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Pregnancy
Its actually called left lateral recumbent. Because of human anatomy, the blood vessels conducting blood below the level of your abdomen/ diaphragm run toward the back and right side.
Lying on your back (mainly) or right side (possible) tends to put pressure on those vessels and disturbs needed blood flow, both to the mothers lower body and to the growing baby, causing a low blood pressure event. Left side lying is best to prevent this. And right side lying is better then on your back. This is especially important in the 3rd trimester when the baby is gaining size.
2006-11-25 04:11:01 · answer #1 · answered by kramelop 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The real issue is that you don't sleep on your back. The left side is recommended because it helps to promote better circulation, but you can just as well sleep on your right side and avoid causing any problems. If you need help getting comfortable, try using a body/pregnancy pillow for extra support or nap in a comfortable recliner when you feel tired.
2006-11-25 13:09:57 · answer #2 · answered by chamely_3 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You dont need to sleep on your left side.
They say left because its easier on your stomach, and easier on your viens. But its not written in stone. Its only a suggestion.
You can even sleep on your back or belly as long as you want. At some point limbs will fall asleep, or your stomach will hurt, and you'll find its more comfy to sleep on one side.
Sleep is needed, and you cant do it wrong.
Anyone who tells you differently is misinformed.
Iam a back sleeper and went through this when i first got pregnant. people were telling me i'd kill the baby if i slept any other way other than the left side. 3 doctors and countless nurses later, i found out its just not true. Theres no risk in sleeping any way.
2006-11-25 12:12:44 · answer #3 · answered by amosunknown 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
At the end of my pregnancy with my first, the doctor recommended that I sleep on my left side, to keep my blood pressure down. My blood pressure was spiking to stroke level and I was in dangerous territory, toxemia. But I hear it is better for the circulation as a whole.
2006-11-25 12:12:35 · answer #4 · answered by cheyenne2584 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I asked my doctor and she told me that sleeping on your left side when you start getting bigger is better for blood flow and what not. She also said that until then, sleep however is most comfortable for me...I have found that sleeping on my right is more comfy right now too...
2006-11-25 12:09:08 · answer #5 · answered by aisha3821 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's better for the baby. It helps in the circulation to it. I was also a right sided sleeper but I knew it was better for my baby so I got used to it. When you look at it, it's not too much to ask to be uncomfortable for 9 months when that child will give you a lifetime of happiness.
2006-11-25 12:07:38 · answer #6 · answered by Jessica_Bessica 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When I was pregnant, I started premature labor, and was recommended to sleep on my left side also. They told me that it was something about putting less pressure on baby and the organs, etc. It was difficult to get used to, but I will say I think I felt better.
2006-11-25 12:00:32 · answer #7 · answered by donnabellekc 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As long as your comfortable your fine. I have four kids and while pregnant with them I would sometimes still kinda sleep on my belly. They are all healthy and normal.
2006-11-25 12:03:13 · answer #8 · answered by Lila 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋