Why Pregnant Women Are Being Urged Not To Sleep On Their Back In The Third Trimester | HuffPost Life

The study adds to growing research in this area.

By

Life editor at HuffPost UK

Pregnant women have been advised to sleep on their sides in the last trimester of pregnancy.

Researchers from the University of Auckland have found that foetuses’ hearts were less active when women slept facing upwards as opposed to on their sides.

According to Science Daily, the small-scale study, published in the Journal of Physiology, is the first to monitor unborn babies overnight and at the same time, record the mother’s position during sleep.

Lead author Professor Peter Stone said: “We are suggesting that there is now sufficient evidence to recommend mothers avoid sleeping on their back in late pregnancy.”

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The researchers analysed 29 women who were between 34 and 38 weeks pregnant. Their babies’ heart rates were continuously recorded overnight and their sleeping positions were monitored via video recordings.

Researchers found when a woman slept on her back, their baby was less active than when they slept on their side.

If a mum changed position during sleep - from being on her side to going onto her back - the baby became “quieter”.

Professor Stone said: “In the situation where the baby may not be healthy, such as those with poor growth, the baby may not tolerate the effect of maternal back-sleeping.”

Louise Silverton, director for Midwifery at the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) welcomed the research, despite it being a small study.

“The potential for an increased risk of stillbirth as a result of a pregnant woman’s sleeping position is an important one and the RCM welcomes this research that supports earlier studies,” she told HuffPost UK.

“We have known for a long time that blood pressure is reduced where a woman is lying on her back.

“Many women will say that they don’t lie on their backs as they don’t always feel most comfortable in that sleeping position and often women are advised not to sleep on their backs.”

“This small study adds to information in this area. Women should try to lie on their side when going to sleep.

“They will change position unconsciously whilst asleep and we believe that most will avoid moving onto their backs whilst asleep.

“Also, it is known that when in labour, moving a woman to the left hand side may improve the foetal heart rate trace.

“What this study shows is that even in the healthiest of women with a foetus with no known risk factors, position is important.

“Equally, speaking to your midwife and discussing the best sleeping and resting positions for even something as simple lying on a sofa during pregnancy is crucial.

“The RCM would like to see more research focusing on sleeping position during late pregnancy and the effects that it may have on both mother and baby. Anyone women with concerns should speak to their midwife or GP.”

Before You Go

Pregnancy worries and words of comfort

I have no morning sickness! Is that bad news?(01 of10)

You might have read things about how morning sickness signifies a healthy level of pregnancy hormones – but not having morning sickness does not mean you're lacking! Although many women suffer with it (and 'suffer' really is the word), many other women do not. Some women have it one pregnancy, but not in another. Attend all your usual checks and count yourself as one of the lucky ones! (credit:Alamy )

I drank before I knew I was pregnant, I might have harmed the baby(02 of10)

This happens to many, many expectant mums, and it's unlikely to be a cause for concern at all. Mention it to your GP/midwife, and just keep off the booze now, until you can enjoy a celebratory glass of fizz when your bundle arrives. (credit:Alamy )

I'll lose the baby(03 of10)

It's estimated about one in five pregnancies ends in early miscarriage, and it's thought most of those occur simply because the foetus wasn't developing properly. It does happen, but don't let it rule your thoughts because the vast majority of pregnancies do succeed. Try not to worry and remember that once you're into the second trimester, the chances of miscarriage is dramatically reduced. (credit:Alamy )

My baby might not be 'perfect'(04 of10)

It's estimated that one in 16 babies in the UK is born with a birth defect – but this figure refers to all birth defects, and many are mild and can be treated. So it's likely your baby won't have a birth defect, and even if they do, they will be perfect in their own way – remember support is available for every eventuality. Take your folic acid and attend your antenatal screening appointments. (credit:Alamy )

I won't make it to the hospital on time(05 of10)

You might have read terrifying stories about pregnant women giving birth in car parks and taxis – but these stories make it to the news because they are extraordinary, in the literal sense of the word! It very rarely happens, and most women get plenty of warning that labour is beginning. So plan well, and all is very likely to be fine. (credit:Alamy )

I might have to have a c-section(06 of10)

If you do end up needing a c-section, you might feel disappointed – but believe us, in the moment the only thing you'll really care about is the safe delivery of your baby. It won't be the end of the world and you won't care a jot when your baby is in your arms. (credit:Alamy )

I won't be able to cope during labour(07 of10)

There is just no telling how labour will be for you, so don't worry about it now. Make your birth plan, discuss it with your partner and midwife, and go with the flow on the day (it's okay to change your mind!). There will be lots and lots of help and support at your disposal. Not to mention drugs, should you need them. (credit:Alamy )

Labour will humiliating (will I poo on the bed?!)(08 of10)

You've heard about that then? It can happen, but the doctors and midwives have seen it all – they have experienced every possible scenario. They won't be worrying about things like that, so neither should you. (credit:Alamy )

I don't know how to be a mum(09 of10)

No-one does until they become one! Every new mum feels like they're winging it in the early days. As your baby grows and you get to know them, you'll learn. Trust in the fact that just about every mother has gone through it… and survived. (credit:Alamy )

I'm worried about gaining all that weight(10 of10)

You will put on weight, yes – but it's normal and nothing to be afraid of! Much weight gain is actually down to the baby, the placenta, extra blood in your system and the retention of water. Pregnancy changes your body in myriad ways – just enjoy it, and let your body just do its thing at this special time. Remember, there's no need to 'eat for two'… but eat what you need and don't count calories. (credit:Alamy )

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