What can help improve sleep quality during pregnancy?

Practicing relaxation techniques is highly beneficial for improving sleep quality during pregnancy. Pregnancy can be a time of increased stress and anxiety due to physical changes, hormonal fluctuations, and concerns about labor and parenthood. Implementing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or prenatal yoga can help alleviate these stressors, promote a sense of calm, and prepare the body for restful sleep. These methods also help reduce tension in the body, which can contribute to better sleep quality.

In contrast, consuming caffeine before bed tends to disrupt sleep, as caffeine is a stimulant that can make it harder to fall asleep. Additionally, staying inactive throughout the day can lead to fatigue and restlessness at night, as regular physical activity is known to enhance sleep quality. Lastly, sleeping on your back during pregnancy can pose risks, particularly in later trimesters, as it may compress blood vessels and decrease blood flow to the uterus and to the mother. Hence, exploring relaxation techniques emerges as a safe and effective strategy for improving sleep quality during this period.