Should you lay on your back?

Should you lay on your back? Left side? Right side? What about if you wake in the night and you're on your back?

Whats the big deal with laying on your back during pregnancy? Well there is a large vein called the vena cava which carries blood back to your heart from your lower body. This vein runs along the right side of the body. When the uterus gets really big, it can put pressure on this vein if laying flat on your back, sometimes.making you feel dizzy. . There is some research to suggest that being in this position for prolonged periods can have a detrimental effect on the wellbeing and growth of the baby, as it affects the blood circulating around your system meaning baby may not get as much oxygen and nutrients. . Even though ideally its recommended in the 2nd and 3rd trimester to sleep on your side (left preferably) if you wake in the middle of the night and you are laying on your back dont panic, just roll over back into a left lying position again. Laying on your side also has its benefits for you too. It enhances kidney function, which means better elimination of waste products and less swelling in your feet, ankles and hands. . If you struggling laying on your left or your hips/legs go a bit numb, just change to the other side and remember most people twist and turn throughout the night anyway, it's unlikely that you would remain in a back laying position for the entire night 😊