Becoming a parent will mean sleepless nights. However, many pregnant women are learning those sleepless nights can come long before the baby does. Sleeping when pregnant can be a nightly chore. You can't sleep because it's difficult to adjust to the aches and pains of pregnancy as well as a giant belly. Discovering a position that accommodates your changing body can be trying at times but we have some advice to give you a good night's rest.

Ideas to Try When You Can't Sleep

• Experts recommend laying off the caffeine, especially close to bedtime. Drinks like tea, coffee, and soda can give you an unwanted burst of energy when all your body really wants is rest. Unfortunately, chocolate also has caffeine in it so you may want to also rethink your special treat too close to hitting the sack.
• You've probably already noticed that your trips to the bathroom are more frequent. Limiting your fluid intake prior to the evening hours may help you stay in bed all night. Once you've found that comfy position and finally fallen asleep, you don't want to get back out of bed just to go the bathroom. And if you drink too much fluid before bedtime, it may not end with just one toilet trip in the night.
• An active digestive system is going to keep you up at night. If you can avoid eating a large meal late at night, you should. However, in order to keep you blood sugar levels where they need to be, you might consider drinking warm milk and eating a few crackers.
• Take the time to unwind after a full day. A body and mind at rest tend to stay at rest. Try to indulge in a soothing bath, listen to relaxing music, or read another chapter of your favorite book.
• Statistics show that exercise can actually help you sleep better, pregnant or not. If you can't sleep, maybe you should consider adding a little exercise, or more exercise, to your daily routine. Aim for a late afternoon workout or around four hours before bedtime.
• Sleeping when you're pregnant is the most difficult because of the bump. Face it. It's awkward to get comfortable. If you're pregnant, sleeping on your back isn't comfortable once you get further along in your pregnancy. It can also restrict the blood flow from your lower body to your heart, and the blood flow that carries oxygen and nutrients to your placenta. Therefore, doctors typically recommend choosing a different sleeping position after the first trimester. Try to position pillows between your legs and remember to support your belly. There are special pillows you can buy that cater to pregnancy.
• If you can't sleep at night, look for opportunities for naps during the day. Remember, after the baby is born you will learn to sleep when the baby sleeps. You might as well prepare yourself for napping anyway.
• Your bedroom should be a place for resting. Watching television or reading in bed will only hinder your ability to fall asleep. And if you can't sleep because your mind is racing, focus on something calming. Taking a bath or reading a book can help get you resettled.

No matter if it's your baby bump, heartburn, or frequent bathroom trips keeping you up at night, there are options for sleeping when you're pregnant.