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Sleeping well is also about taking care of yourself and your baby

Author:
EM
Enf.ª Margarida LançaSpecialist Nurse in Maternal and Obstetric Health

Last updated 17 August 2026

As your pregnancy progresses, it is natural that your sleep is no longer the same as before. Frequent trips to the toilet, your growing bump, hormonal changes, heartburn, or even thoughts about the arrival of your baby can make you wake up more often during the night. This happens to many pregnant women and does not mean you are doing anything wrong.

Although it is not always possible to sleep for many hours in a row, there are small strategies that can help your body rest better:

  • Try to keep to a similar time for going to bed and getting up;
  • Create a peaceful environment in your bedroom, with low light and a comfortable temperature;
  • Avoid using your mobile phone or other screens in the last hour before going to sleep.

If you need to rest during the day, opt for a short nap in the early afternoon so that it does not make it harder to sleep at night.

As your bump grows, it can also be harder to find a comfortable position. Try using pillows to support your bump, your back, or between your knees. Small adjustments can make a big difference to your comfort during the night.

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  • EM
    Enf.ª Margarida LançaSpecialist Nurse in Maternal and Obstetric Health
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