As your belly is getting bigger, and the temperatures get hotter, your hours of sleep may be getting smaller. Lack of sleep is a common complaint we hear from pregnant women. Trying to get comfortable, rearranging pillows and having to get up to use the bathroom are only a few of the culprits that can cause lack of sleep.
But getting a good night’s sleep is crucial– just as important as eating nutritious food and drinking enough water. Eating, staying hydrated and sleeping are the foundations to good health and a happy pregnancy.
Trouble sleeping doesn’t just happen late in pregnancy; sleeplessness can happen right from the beginning. And if you’re experiencing hot summer temperatures and don’t have air conditioning, you may be feeling the heat, literally. No only that, the same pregnancy hormone that causes fatigue during the day can disrupt your sleep cycle at night. And if you have added anxiety or stress, this will only increase the problem.
So what can you do? here are a few tips to help you sleep through the summer heat:
- The basement or bottom level of houses are usually the coolest – try setting up a temporary bed when the temps rise.
- Wet a washcloth in cool water and place it around your neck.
- Sleep with light, breathable sleepwear and sheets.
- If you don’t have air conditioning in your house, use one or more fans to help you stay cool.
Between heat, bathroom trips and rearranging pillows, try to catch up on sleep where you can. Here are more tips on how to get your sleep in before baby comes.
For more information on how to get a restful night’s sleep, and when to see a doctor regarding possible sleep problems, see this handy guide.
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