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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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Many women comment about the unique nature of their dreams while they're pregnant. Pregnancy hormones play a role, but the psychological changes related to pregnancy also contribute to these vivid dreams. Many new responsibilities, pressures and duties are being placed on you now, and it is sometimes overwhelming. Many of these anxious emotions come out in the form of dreams.

Try to have your mind in a relaxed mode when going to sleep. Don't do any major projects or have serious discussions about things like money right before bed. If you are awakened at night by a dream and have difficulty getting back to sleep, try reading a calming book for a short time or drinking a warm, non-caffeinated beverage.

10. With all the added pressures and responsibilities, I am having a tough time relaxing my mind and getting to sleep. What can I do to help myself get to sleep?
In his book, Dr. Kryger lists numerous ways to help anyone create a more sleep-friendly lifestyle. Here are a few of his suggestions:

  • Use the bed only for sleep and sex, not television viewing, working, reading or anything else.
  • Create a relaxing bedtime ritual. Make it a calming routine you follow every night.
  • Take a warm (but not hot) bath.

"It is extremely important that women who are pregnant never take any type of sleep medications that they find over the counter or even in a health or natural foods store," says Dr. Kryger. "These products are not safe for pregnant women. If you are having a sleep problem ... don't hesitate to talk to your practitioner about it. Sleep problems can be symptoms of more serious conditions, or they can be common complaints. It is always best to let your doctor make this diagnosis."

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