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Home › Articles › Complications in Pregnancy › Restless Nights

Restless Nights

Answers to Common Sleep Concerns During Pregnancy

By Jacqueline Rupp

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Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is not limited to pregnant women, although many women first experience it during pregnancy. This syndrome, characterized by tossing and turning and irritating leg sensations, can persist throughout the night. Dr. Kryger advises women, if they believe they are suffering from this syndrome, to consult their physicians because RLS can signal a deficiency.

"Iron and/or folic acid deficiencies are known causes of RLS," says Dr. Kryger. "Women who have these sensations should have their iron levels checked. A prescribed multivitamin high in iron and folic acid can then be given. Also, it's important to note that RLS seems to go away soon after childbirth in most women."

5. I am 8 months pregnant and get the worst heartburn at night. It keeps me awake and is rather painful. What can I do to stop this annoyance?
During pregnancy, particularly in the latter months, an enlarging uterus can place added pressure on the stomach, causing acid reflux or heartburn. Dr. Kryger suggests several ways to combat this annoying and painful problem at bedtime. "Try to eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day," he says. "Stop eating a couple of hours before bed. Avoid spicy or fried meals or those that contain a lot of dairy products several hours before sleeping." You can also try propping your head up more with pillows when you sleep.

 
6. Now that my belly has grown, I am having trouble finding a comfortable position to sleep. Do you have any suggestions?
"It's going to get better once the baby is born, but during the third trimester sleeping can become interrupted just by the physical discomforts of pregnancy," says Dr. Kryger. "For most women, by this stage sleeping on the back is practically uncomfortable, but most women will find a good position through trial an error."


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