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Pregnancy

Back sleeping in pregnancy

7 replies

Pitapotamus · 09/02/2017 23:43

Sleeping on my side (left or right) leaves me in quite a lot of pain (SPD). I'm only 16 weeks pregnant and it's only going to get worse!

There are loads of different support pillows on the market aimed at comfortable side sleeping but ideally I need to sleep on my back. Is there any kind of pillow / wedge type thing on the market that can help make back sleeping safer? I'm not sure exactly what incline you need to achieve to stop the baby pushing down on the arteries around your heart which is apparently the problem with back sleeping...

I'd be grateful for any suggestions!

OP posts:

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HopeAndJoy16 · 10/02/2017 04:07

I don't think back sleeping at 16 weeks is an issue. Your baby is so small at this point and your uterus not particularly heavy. I'm 30w and end up sleeping on my back most nights despite pillows between my knees etc. You can try putting a pillow behind your back to try and prop you on your side. I've bought a v pillow which is comfortable but a pita when turning over. I've also got spd and find it comfiest on my back, sleeping propped up! Xx

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sauceyorange · 10/02/2017 05:06

Sleep on your back! Getting rest is v important. You'll know if it's causing issues with you circulation because you'll get pins and needles in your legs

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Bluebellevergreen · 10/02/2017 05:15

I have terrible PGP and I am sleeping on my side (39 weeks pregnant now) but I have a folded duvet on top of mattress under my hips and it has done wonders

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FartnissEverbeans · 10/02/2017 05:47

I think back sleeping is fine until the point where it gets uncomfortable. I was fine sleeping on my back until quite late in pregnancy.

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MrsJW15 · 10/02/2017 17:10

I went to a maternity physio session recently and they said that back sleeping was fine as long as you weren't totally flat. So make sure you have a few pillows and you should be ok. I don't think there's an official rule on incline!

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TestingTestingWonTooFree · 10/02/2017 20:28

PGP physio this week said if lying on your back, have a pillow under your knees and make sure you stay (left-right) symmetrical.

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Pitapotamus · 10/02/2017 21:48

Thanks for all your responses. I think I'll back sleep for another few weeks and see if it helps!