Whether your baby is kicking around in your belly in the middle of the night, you have a calf cramp, or you have to go to the bathroom again – instead of slumbering blissfully, you lie awake. Almost every pregnant woman has to deal with sleep problems in the last trimester.
Take a look at the clock – is it always about the same time when you wake up? Then think of it as training: Maybe your baby wants to prepare you for the nights after birth, when you will have to adjust to the rhythm of your offspring. Until that time comes, our home remedies will help you quickly regain your composure.
Table of contents
Get Into Bed Well – And Into The Bath
Relax in the bathtub before bedtime. Lavender, rose or Roman chamomile oil – mixed with a little honey or milk – release a soothing scent in the warm water. In bed, a tea of hops, valerian, St. John’s wort and lemon balm or a glass of milk with honey will help you feel tired. Make yourself as comfortable as possible with lots of small pillows. In the side or back position, you should support your stomach, legs and spine well. A breastfeeding pillow that adjusts to the body as needed is also tried and tested. Do you find it difficult to turn over with your baby bump? A spiral sheet from a specialty store will help: place it on the mattress folded double with the two smooth sides facing each other. These sides slide against each other and thus support your turning movements. Going to the toilet three or four times a night is not uncommon – after all, the growing child is pressing on your bladder. It is certainly not possible to limit the urge to urinate completely. Lie on your left side – this relieves the bladder. And weigh up whether you need the calming tea to fall asleep or whether you would prefer to drink a little less in the evening.
Interpret Dreams
It is also often fears and worries that make it difficult for expectant mothers to fall asleep or pull them out of grueling dreams in the middle of the night. Nervousness about the impending birth, fear of new responsibilities and being a mother all affect sleep. Involve your partner, ask for advice. Also talk openly about your fears with your midwife or friends.
Preventing Calf Cramps And Heartburn
If you wake up from calf cramps, the muscles are not sufficiently supplied with magnesium. A vigorous circulation-boosting massage will help. Before bed: Slowly chew a banana, dried apricots or almonds. This replenishes magnesium stores for the night. Heartburn also often causes you to wake up. Sleep with your upper body elevated to allow the stomach acid.