Re: back sleeping during pregnancy

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Rather than being totally on your side or on your back, try a pillow just under your hip, slightly rolling the uterus off midline. The reason for not sleeping straight on your back is the theoretical compression of the uterus on the pelvic vessels that supply blood to the baby. By limiting the blood supply you could in fact decrease the oxygen to the baby and cause damage. Having said that I suppose that our ancestors knew nothing about pelvic anatomy and more than one slept straight on her back, and here we are.

Another option is a body pillow that you can cuddle, and 'pillow top mattrass' or place a pillow between your knees while on your side.

Tough situation but usually the outcome is worth the discomfort. Good luck.

--
Richard Chudacoff, MD
Baylor College of Medicine
BaylorMedCare
Houston/Sugar Land, TX

Advisory Board-OBGYN.net
http://www.obgyn.net/board/chudacoff.htm

*Note:  Opinions expressed here are for educational purpose only.
This information is not intended to supplant the need for you to
consult with your physician prior to choosing therapeutic options.

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