Why It's More Important To Get Sleep When You're Pregnant

Getting that "good sleep" when you're snoozing for two.

Getting adequate sleep may not have been a breeze before you were pregnant. Throw in shifting hormones and the crazy pregnancy body changes that come with your all-inclusive pregnancy package, and you've really got your work cut out for you. While every person and every pregnancy is unique, most women experience sleep-related challenges at some point during pregnancy. Developing healthy sleep hygiene is one of the best ways to cope with those restless nights. Here are some tips for making sure you get those all-important z's:

PRIORITIZE

Prioritize sleep and stick to a consistent bedtime. Listen to your body and nap when you are fatigued. If possible, schedule those siestas earlier in the day and consider setting a timer to prevent late daytime snoozing, which could interfere with nighttime sleep. For nights, I put a bedtime reminder on my phone that pinged me when it was time to wind down. Trust me, in the days to come, a good sleep schedule is often your best friend.

MOOD

Have a ritual that relaxes you to help you prepare for bed. Take a bath, read a book, listen to music, write in a journal, hang out with your partner, do whatever it is that will help you relax and settle in for a good night's sleep.

MOVE

Find some pregnancy-safe exercises you enjoy and do them earlier in the day, and of course, with your doctor's consent. Including regular exercise and a good prenatal vitamin as part of your daily routine will help you feel more energized during the day and help you sleep better at night.

UNPLUG

Turn off your devices. Resist the urge to lay in bed endlessly scrolling and pinning all the things for your picture-perfect nursery. Leave the electronics in another room if possible. You'll be surprised how relaxing it is to not have the distraction of lights, buzzes, and pings disrupting you as you drift off to sleep.

INDULGE

Having a baby is no easy task, so take time to pamper yourself. Book a spa treatment, take a babymoon, or give that tummy some lovin' with a luxe new belly butter. You can’t pour from an empty cup, Mamma. Implementing some well-deserved self-care is one of the best (and most enjoyable) ways to help you relax and recharge.

As your due date approaches, it may seem like your to-do list is growing even more than your belly. But right now, the most important thing is the health of you and your baby. Prioritizing rest and maintaining healthy sleep habits will pay dividends throughout your pregnancy and well into motherhood. Try to remember, as you lay your head on your pillow, this is temporary!  Yes, the journey can feel really long and is sometimes really uncomfortable. But trust me, before you know it, your baby will be here, and all these pregnancy woes will be but a memory. Take this moment in time to connect with your body, your baby, your partner... and lean into it, sister.

Now, go on and get yourself a nap.