One common worry among expectant mothers is how long they can lay on their backs when pregnant.
While it is safe for short periods, certain risks come with lying on your back during pregnancy.
How Long Can You Lay On Your Back When Pregnant?
New and expectant mothers have many questions about pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Here are some tips on how long you can lay on your back when pregnant.
During pregnancy, there are a lot of uncomfortable positions in which you have to be.
Most of them involve your belly getting bigger and more swollen and your back feeling like it is about to break.
It can be hard to get comfortable during pregnancy, but there are some simple ways that you can make things a bit easier.
Laying on your back is one of them!
It Is Okay To Lay On Your Back During Pregnancy
If you are pregnant and are worried about how long you can lay on your back, relax!
You do not have to worry about the dangers of laying on your back for too long.
There are two main reasons why it is okay to let yourself relax in this way:
Your Weight
When you are expecting, your body works hard to keep your baby safe inside of you.
The more weight you gain during pregnancy, the more support your body needs from the floor or other body parts to help hold up the weight.
Hannah Holt
If you lay on your back for a long time, try to stand up.
It will not be easy, and if it is too much trouble, do not do it.
Just take a break and try again later when things feel easier.
Your Back Pain
Sometimes, getting up off the floor can cause back pain if other things pull on your spine while standing up, like a tight bra strap.
If this happens to be true for you, then it might be best not to try standing all at once.
Instead, just take small breaks.
A Wedge Pillow Is Helpful
If you are trying not to lie on your back, a wedge pillow can help. A wedge pillow is a small pillow that can support your upper body when lying on your back.
Wedge pillows are helpful for people who have trouble bending and raising their legs and those who want to avoid pressure on their lower back and hips.
They are also nice for people who want to sleep in a different position than they typically do.
- What is a wedge pillow?
A wedge pillow has two flaps sewn onto each side of its base.
These flaps create an angled platform for you to rest your head on while still being able to comfortably lift up or down at any point along this elevation plane, i.e., the "wedge" part.
- How do I use my wedge pillow?
To use your new wedge-padded bedding:
1) Lie down flat on one side with knees bent high enough, so they are over both sides where they will end up being positioned.
2) Place one hand underneath either flap closest to you.
3) Push upward until both sides meet together above eye level.
The Risks Of Lying On Your Back When Pregnant
When you are pregnant, the risks of lying on your back are also high.
If you are pregnant and you end up on your back, it is important to be aware of the dangers to make a plan to stay safe.
Dehydration
Your body goes through several changes. One of those changes is a shift in how your body absorbs oxygen.
It means that when you lie down, even if you have no symptoms of heartburn or indigestion, there might be trouble brewing in your gut.
Reduced Blood Flow
Lying on your back for too long can reduce the blood flow for you and your baby.
If you are feeling uncomfortable, then it is best to move to another position.
If your belly feels heavy and your back hurts, try lying on your side or tummy.
If you have a low-lying placenta, avoid lying flat because it can put pressure on it, making it swollen.
In this case, opt for sitting upright with legs crossed at the ankles.
On the other hand, if you have a high-lying placenta, lie down flat instead of sitting up straight.
It will reduce pressure, keep its size intact longer into labor, and help prevent premature birth symptoms like contractions early during pregnancy.
Take Frequent Breaks
Laying on your back for a longer duration can pressure your spine and circulation.
It can also cause nausea and dizziness.
But there is nothing necessarily risky about lying on your back during pregnancy as long as it is not for too long.
There are some downsides to this position, however.
In particular, the more you remain in one position, the more likely you will develop a blood clot and anemia.
So if possible, try to avoid staying still too long, which means taking frequent breaks.
If possible, move around often by stretching or bending at the waist or knees while lying down.
It will help prevent swelling and keep blood flowing throughout your body more efficiently.
