One of the recommendations made to future moms is that in pregnancy, it is better to sleep on the left side. It is a recommendation that is not easy to fulfill when one is already so accustomed to sleeping in a certain way, however, by asking why on the left side and not on the right side or on the back, it has its explanation.
The vena cava is located on the right side, the largest vein in the body through which a large blood flow circulates. By lying on the left side we avoid the pressure of the body's weight on this vein, favoring the blood supply to the placenta and providing more oxygen and nutrients for the baby.
In addition, by contributing to better circulation, it helps reduce the edema of pregnancy and prevent varicose veins. It is also related to being a good posture to avoid acidity.
But scientists from the University of Auckland, New Zealand, go further. In a recent study they point out that sleeping on the right side in the last stages of pregnancy could be associated with an increased risk of fetal death. They point out that it would be premature to start recommending all women who sleep on their left side, however, observing the sleeping position of 155 women who had had dead births with 310 whose births had been normal, found that the position, in particular from the night before birth, it could be an important factor.
When the pregnant woman lies on the right side or on the back, the fetus compresses its inferior vena cava, which is responsible for carrying blood to the heart, decreasing the flow of blood and oxygen to the mother's organs, as well as the baby.
If the baby is healthy and strong, this reduction in oxygen does not matter, say the researchers, but if it presents problems of some kind it could have consequences.
While it cannot be said that sleeping on the right side is harmful to the baby, as there are no conclusive studies to support it, sleep on the left side in pregnancyIt seems to be the best option, if the pregnant woman tolerates it.
Sleeping the last weeks of pregnancy may become an impossible mission, but with the help of pillows to find the best posture (I slept surrounded), you can get an acceptable rest.
