In the Beginning: Sleep

Once your child is born, sleep will become a luxury. I'm not suggesting that you start making up for the sleep you will loose when your little one arrives but, you need to start listening to your body now.

Begin your sleep routine early in your pregnancy by setting a regular bedtime and get up at the same time each day. As your pregnancy progresses, you need to be aware that your body will need more restful time. Give your body what it needs and adjust your sleep times as needed.

Towards the end of your pregnancy you will be getting up several times during the night to use the bathroom and, you will loose the restful sleep you have been used to before you were pregnant. Because you are not sleeping well, it's important to take time during the day to rest or sleep. Your body is preparing itself for labor.

If you are pregnant and have children, find someone to watch your children while you take some time to rest during the day. If you know a pregnant woman who has children, offer to watch her children while she sleeps. Be ready to insist if she says no.

Those of you who are pregnant for the first time, enjoy this time to sleep. You will never sleep the same after your child is born.