It’s not uncommon for pregnant women to experience fatigue and feel the need to nap. In fact, it’s estimated that around 70% of pregnant women experience excessive daytime sleepiness during their pregnancy.
While it’s tempting to fight the urge to nap, especially if you’re feeling busy or run down, research shows that napping during pregnancy can actually be beneficial for both the mother and the baby.
One study, published in the journal Sleep, found that pregnant women who napped for at least an hour each day had lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol has been linked to a number of pregnancy complications, including preterm birth and low birth weight.
Another study, published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, found that pregnant women who napped regularly had a reduced risk of developing preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems for both the mother and the baby.
In addition to the benefits for the mother, napping during pregnancy can also be beneficial for the baby. One study, published in the journal Pediatrics, found that infants whose mothers napped regularly during pregnancy had better cognitive development at 6 months of age.
So, if you’re a pregnant woman who’s feeling tired, don’t hesitate to take a nap. It’s not only good for you, but it’s also good for your baby..
