How to Sleep to Promote Placental Uplift

Sep 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My wife is in her sixth week of pregnancy. I heard that sleeping position may affect the position of the placenta, and I would like to consult a doctor about which sleeping posture is beneficial for the placenta to move upward.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

The position of the placenta naturally changes during pregnancy, mainly influenced by factors such as uterine shape, fetal size, and amniotic fluid volume. Sleep posture has no direct relationship with placental position changes. However, appropriate sleep positions can indeed enhance comfort and promote fetal health. The following sleep positions are recommended:

1. Left-side lying: Side-lying is recommended during the second and third trimesters, particularly left-side lying. This position improves blood circulation, increases blood flow to the fetus, uterus, and kidneys, and simultaneously reduces pressure on the inferior vena cava, helping alleviate edema and back pain.

2. Avoid supine position: As pregnancy progresses, avoid prolonged lying on the back, as this may compress major blood vessels, leading to decreased blood pressure and impaired oxygen supply to the fetus.

3. Use of pregnancy pillows: When lying on the left side, a pregnancy pillow or regular pillow can be placed beneath the abdomen and between the legs to support the body, relieve pressure on the lower back, and improve sleep quality.

Additionally, if you have concerns about placental position during pregnancy, consult your doctor based on the results of regular prenatal checkups.