What is the best sleeping position during late pregnancy?
In general, sleeping on the left side is considered most appropriate during late pregnancy. The specific reasons are as follows:
During the third trimester, lying on the left side can reduce the pressure exerted by the enlarged uterus on the aorta and iliac arteries, helping maintain normal blood flow through the uterine arteries and ensuring adequate placental perfusion to support fetal growth and development. At the same time, it decreases pressure on the inferior vena cava, enhancing venous return to the heart. Increased cardiac blood volume improves renal blood flow and cerebral circulation, which helps prevent and alleviate pregnancy-induced hypertension. As the uterus enlarges progressively, it occupies space within the abdominal cavity, causing displacement of adjacent organs and often resulting in dextrorotation (rightward rotation) of the uterus. Sleeping on the left side helps correct this rightward rotation, improves vascular patency to the uterus, enhances oxygen supply to the fetus, and thereby promotes healthy fetal development.
In daily life, developing regular sleep habits is beneficial. Using a pregnancy pillow can also improve comfort during sleep. Wear loose-fitting sleepwear and take proper measures to stay warm. Regular physical activity during pregnancy is also advantageous for labor and delivery.