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Slip Into a Steady Slumber

Tips to Cure Insomnia
-- By Liz Noelcke, Staff Writer

Sleep is something that every body (especially a pregnant body) craves, but also something that everybody struggles with periodically. You've tried to cure it the right way. You stopped drinking caffeine late in the day; you didn't eat a heavy meal right before bed; you made sure that the lights were off; you've tried to keep a definite bedtime schedule consistently. And yet, as you lie in bed sleepless and frustrated, none of this really seems to matter. When insomnia hits, you could spend hours stressing, or try a few new things to ease you into a peaceful slumber.

Difficulty falling (and staying) asleep is a common problem for pregnant women. As an important source of fuel for the body, sleep is a valuable commodity. If you have been lying in bed for a while and can't sleep, get up. Don't just stay in bed and worry about not having enough energy to get all you need to get done the following day. Do something tonight to encourage the Sandman to appear a little sooner:

Go for a soak
Go relax in the bathtub. This soothes both body and mind. Don't make the mistake of taking a shower. This can actually awaken your body. Opt for a warm bath instead. Couple this with some candles and calm music and you'll be set.


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Member Comments About this Article
"I'm 38 weeks and still sleeping really well. I've found that lots of activity from the beginning is what has helped me to get settled at bedtime. I'm sure to walk at least a mile each day, taking my dogs with me which makes it easier to complete. And I don't hold back from other activities around the house and yard that I can still do without causing any harm to me or my baby. And I'm sure to stretch afterward and lie down on my left side for a bit to redistribute my blood flow and take a break...." -- AMYHUNT
"I am 28 weeks pregnant with twins and, like others have had a horrible time sleeping at night. HERE"S WHAT WORKED FOR ME: I went out and bought some firm support knee highs - you can find them at sears or you can spend $ and buy those that are actually sold as maternity support hoes. Anyway, I wear these during the day anytime that I am on my feet, and then at night I lay on my side with the bottom leg straight out and from my knee down on the mattress(roll your hip so you are not laying dirr..." -- WINGSASEAGLES
"I'm 15 weeks pregnant and my body is alert to every sound and movement in the room. The only thing I found that actually works after a while is ear plugs.. and then i still have difficulties getting comfortable due to neck and back aches. I'm affraid i wont get any sleep as i get farther along :o/" -- SHADORABLE
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