Sleep During Pregnancy: How Adjustable Beds and Mattresses Help Moms-to-Be

Pregnancy is an exciting time for most women, but it can also be challenging. Expecting mothers often struggle with various physical discomforts that can make it difficult to get a good night's sleep. Back pain, leg swelling, and acid reflux are just a few of the common issues that can disrupt sleep during pregnancy.

Fortunately, adjustable beds can give comfort and support to pregnant women, addressing these issues and promoting a better sleep. We'll explore how adjustable beds and ergonomic mattresses benefit moms-to-be and provide tips for choosing the best bed to meet your needs in this blog.

Alleviating Back Pain

Back pain is a common complaint among pregnant women, as the growing baby puts extra pressure on the spine and back muscles. Adjustable beds can provide relief by allowing you to adjust the bed's angle, elevating your upper body and giving pressure relief to your lower back, thanks to more evenly distributed weight. Also, by sleeping in a slightly upright position, you can improve your spinal alignment and minimize discomfort. All this can help future moms wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free.

 

Reducing Leg Swelling

Leg swelling, or edema, is another common issue during pregnancy, especially in the later stages, as the body retains extra fluids to support the developing baby. This happens because the growing uterus puts pressure on the veins in the pelvis, slowing down blood circulation and causing fluid to accumulate in the lower limbs. Thus, sleeping with the legs elevation above your heart level can help reduce fluid buildup and prevent discomfort and swelling. An adjustable bed lets you raise the leg section to a comfortable angle to provide the desired rise, reducing the pressure and discomfort caused by swollen legs.

 

Mitigating Acid Reflux

Acid reflux, also known as heartburn, is a frequent problem faced during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and the growing fetus that can push against the stomach and cause stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Adjustable beds work well to ease acid reflux by elevating your upper body and reducing pressure on your stomach. By sleeping in a slightly inclined position, you can help keep stomach acid where it belongs and prevent reflux symptoms, making sleep more restful.

Enabling Comfortable Sleeping Poses

During pregnancy, a sleep position can greatly affect a woman's comfort level and quality of sleep. It is generally recommended that expecting mothers sleep on their left side, as this position can improve blood flow to the fetus and uterus and ease pregnancy-related discomfort.

 

However, finding a comfortable sleeping position can be challenging as the pregnancy progresses, especially for women who are used to sleeping on their back or stomach. To cope with these problems, some women may find it helpful to use a pregnancy pillow to support their growing belly and relieve pressure on their hips and lower back. These specially designed pillows can be placed between the knees, under the belly, or behind the back to provide support and help maintain a proper sleeping position.

In addition to using a pregnancy pillow, some women may also find relief by elevating their heads with an adjustable bed. By raising the head section of the bed, moms-to-be can reduce the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn, which may become so disturbing during pregnancy.

Tips for Choosing an Adjustable Bed

When choosing an adjustable bed during pregnancy, there are three key factors to consider.

1. Look for a bed that allows for multiple positions, so you can find the perfect angle for your needs;
2. Consider the bed's size and weight capacity, as you may need extra space or support as your pregnancy progresses;
3. And don't forget to choose a comfortable and supportive mattress that can adapt to your changing needs.

 

Mattresses for Pregnant Women

Indeed, not only adjustable beds but also ergonomic mattresses contribute to a better night’s sleep during the important period of bearing a baby. When it comes to selecting a mattress for pregnant women, it is critical to consider mattress firmness, overall comfort, and safety. Generally, a medium-firm mattress is recommended as it can provide adequate support while also offering enough cushioning to relieve pressure points.

Speaking of the mattress’s material, memory foam mattresses are a popular choice for pregnant women as they can contour to the body's shape and provide customized support for the growing belly and changing body. Additionally, memory foam mattresses are known for their pressure-relieving properties, which can help alleviate back pain and joint pain that are common during pregnancy. It’s perfect if a mattress has multiple foam layers with specific characteristics, each to make the most of memory foam capabilities. For example, the ErgoFlip mattress from Progressive Bed is made up of various layers to ensure the best comfort and support for a wide range of users.

 

In general, it is important to avoid mattresses that are too soft or too firm, as they may not provide adequate back support and can contribute to discomfort or pain. Pregnant women should also ensure that the mattress they choose is made of safe, non-toxic materials and has proper certifications for quality and safety.

 

Ultimately, the best mattress for a pregnant woman will depend on her individual needs and preferences, as well as any specific recommendations from her healthcare provider. It is always a good idea to test out different mattresses and consult with a professional before making a purchase to ensure the best possible sleeping experience during pregnancy.

FAQ