Why do I keep tossing and turning during sleep at 13 weeks pregnant, and what should I do about it?

Nov 11, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
At 13 weeks of pregnancy, frequent tossing and turning during sleep may be caused by discomfort from uterine enlargement, hormonal changes, prenatal anxiety, leg cramps during pregnancy, gastroesophageal reflux, and other factors. These symptoms can be improved by adjusting sleeping positions, improving diet, or using medications. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by severe discomfort, prompt medical attention is necessary. The gradually enlarging uterus may compress surrounding tissues.

  Tossing and turning during sleep at 13 weeks of pregnancy may be caused by discomfort from uterine enlargement, hormonal changes, prenatal anxiety, nocturnal leg cramps, or gastroesophageal reflux. These issues can be improved by adjusting sleeping positions, improving diet, or using medications. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by severe discomfort, prompt medical attention is recommended.

  1. Uterine enlargement discomfort: As the uterus gradually enlarges, it compresses surrounding tissues, causing a pulling sensation when changing positions, making it difficult to sleep comfortably. It is recommended to adopt a left lateral sleeping position and place a soft pillow between the waist and abdomen for support, which helps reduce uterine pressure.

  2. Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy affect nervous system regulation, reducing sleep quality and leading to restlessness. Listening to soothing music or soaking feet before bedtime, along with creating a quiet and comfortable sleep environment, may help.

  3. Prenatal anxiety: Excessive worry about pregnancy changes and fetal health can trigger emotional anxiety, keeping the brain in a state of continuous excitement and making it hard to fall asleep. Under medical guidance, drugs such as oryzanol tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, or Anshen Bunao Liquid may be used to relieve symptoms.

  4. Leg cramps during pregnancy: Increased calcium demands during pregnancy that are not promptly met can lead to nighttime muscle spasms in the legs, causing pain and disrupting sleep. Under medical supervision, supplements such as calcium carbonate D3 tablets, calcium gluconate oral solution, or vitamin D drops may be used to alleviate symptoms.

  5. Gastroesophageal reflux: Slowed gastrointestinal motility during pregnancy allows stomach acid to reflux and irritate the esophagus; symptoms worsen when lying flat at night, leading to restless sleep. Under medical guidance, medications such as hydrotalcite chewable tablets, aluminum hydroxide gel, or vitamin B6 tablets may be used to improve symptoms.

  Daily care should include controlling dinner portion sizes to avoid overeating, avoiding electronic devices one hour before bedtime, maintaining a bedroom with a comfortable temperature and soft lighting, and engaging in mild physical activity to reduce anxiety.