For most pregnant women, being comfortable and getting enough rest can be two of the biggest challenges. Typically, these problems affect more than 75 percent of pregnant women.

During the second and third trimesters (20 weeks and beyond), lower back pain and stomach discomfort often increase. Women who normally sleep on their back or stomach often find getting enough restful sleep especially challenging. Sleeping on the back is discouraged because of compression of the uterus on the large blood vessels (inferior vena cava) and on the intestines, causing decreased blood flow and oxygen to the baby.

Some Tips on Improving Your Sleep.

Set the proper mood to prepare for sleep through soft lighting, a good book, a warm bath (try adding a small amount of lavender oil) and/or a warm non-caffeinated beverage. Experiment to see what helps you unwind.

Massage by your partner is also a good way to relax.

Try daily exercise - walking or pregnancy aerobics often help.

Use comfort aids, such as the Gentle Air Maternity Bed or a special body pillow to support your abdomen and hips.

Nap during the day to help gain some rest and relaxation.

Ask your doctor can give you additional advice. There are several over-the-counter and prescription medications that are safe to use and effective if other methods are not successful.

By Dr. Harry Watters

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My husband gave me a foot rub a couple times a week before bed and this (for some reason) made a huge difference in whether I slept well or not. Now, 17 years after my pregnancy, I have restless leg syndrome and I wonder if even though it wasn't active then, it still affected my ability to sleep well.

One thing that I found that helped me get a little more comfortable was a pregnancy wedge pillow, i would use it between my knees and it seemed to help.

My husband bought me what he called a "pregnancy sleep kit". We got a egg crate type cushion for my side of the bed, a heating pad, foot rub oils and two extra pillows (both firm). Worked out great. I always used the cushion, and normally slept with one pillow between my knees and one wedged under my stomach (i always slept on my side) to help with the round ligament pain.

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Tigriz
Mom to Alex - 1/21/06

The body pillow was my lifesavor. I could curl up to it, drape a leg over, prop my belly over - all at the same time. The only problem came when it was time to roll over. That was an ordeal.

Naps are also important. If you need to sleep, and it is at all possible, then sleep!

This may seem obvious, but of course you want to wtch your caffeine intake as well. Be careful of hidden caffeine foods like chocolate as a snack before bed - and wath the soda, tea and coffee.

I gave up sleeping in the bed because it was just too uncomfortable for my husband and I. I found I actually slept much better on the couch.

My discomfort when I was pregnant was lying down for a longer time causes back pain and so I had to put a pillow to rest my back and I have to move to the sides once in a while.

i am pregnant and u are sooo right curious, massages totally work!

I am now pregnant, ten weeks along actually. And its funny but getting to sleep is already a chore. And bout the time I get there I have to get up and go to the restroom and do it all again. lol I now use a body pillow, and a firm pillow, and steal half of my sisters body pillow as well. ( My sis and I share a bed for now, thankfully she will be married soon). I used to be a real heavy sleeper, now getting any rest whatsoever is ablessing. But I know in the end it will be worth it all. :-)