Dealing with Sleep Disturbances in the Third Trimester
Sleep disturbances are extremely common in many women during the third trimester. It is normal to feel fatigued and tired as your body is preparing for delivery and the large number of changes are taking place. Realizing that you are in the third trimester can be daunting, but there are things you can do to help you manage sleep.
Research shows that sleeping on your left side or propping yourself up can both be helpful in lessening the chance of developing sleep disturbances or other complications. You should also drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid caffeinated drinks in the late afternoon and evening. Along with these tips, there are other things you can do to improve your sleep quality.
It is important to limit screen time before bed and going to sleep and waking up at the same time each day. Other helpful tips include engaging in regular exercise, getting plenty of fresh air during the day, and reducing stress and anxious thoughts.
Identifying Sleep Changes
As you enter the third trimester, it may be useful to track changes in your regular sleeping patterns. Record information such as how much time it takes for you to fall asleep, how often you wake up during the night, and how rested you feel in the morning. This will help you to identify any changes in your typical sleep patterns or habits. If you feel like your sleep is taking a toll on your daily life, you should contact your health care provider for additional advice.
Sleep Aids
If you are having difficulty sleeping despite trying some of these tips, you may benefit from additional support. There are multiple options for sleep aids that are available on the market including over the counter drugs, prescription drugs, and sleep support devices. Your doctor should be able to suggest a suitable solution for you. Be sure to read all the information on the medication packages and follow the instructions carefully.
Tips
- Sleeping on your left side
- Drinking plenty of water
- Avoiding caffeine in the late afternoon and evening
- Limiting screen time before bed
- Going to sleep and waking at the same time
- Engaging in regular exercise
- Getting plenty of fresh air
- Reducing stress and anxious thoughts
Conclusion
Sleep disturbances in the third trimester are quite common. With some changes to your sleep routine and lifestyle, you can manage these disturbances. Consider these tips when dealing with sleep issues during the third trimester. You should also speak to your healthcare provider if the situation persists.