A body that is working round the clock to create another body inside it, should be given adequate rest, isn’t it? Hence, we dedicate this article to self-care, bringing you the importance of rest during the first trimester. 

The science

Pregnancy is sustained and maintained by the hCG-induced continuous secretion of progesterone from the corpus luteum. The first trimester, especially, witnesses a rise in progesterone levels accompanied by an alteration in your sleep cycle. Meaning- progesterone causes nocturnal sleep fragmentation, i.e., frequent interruptions in your sleep at night.

So, as your biological clock and body rhythm gets altered during pregnancy, you may experience increased sleepiness during daytime along with a persistent uncomfortable feeling of fatigue; alongside, drowsiness and lethargy as the evening approaches.

As a result, this affects the developing fetus. Yes! Insufficient sleep or fragmentation of deep sleep may reduce the amount of growth hormone released.

The big question!

Fragmented and disturbed night sleep, increased hormones, interplay of genes and changing internal body mechanism. Sigh!!! What do you do to maintain your well-being along with sustaining the life that is growing inside you, amidst all these challenges?

The solution

The solution, obviously, is rest! So, let’s understand how to get abundance of it;

1. Take breaks in your daily routine to indulge in power naps for some extra energy

2. Don’t wait to feel tired, just hit the bed whenever you want to doze off

3. Listen to your body’s sleep cues, and accordingly adopt a bedtime regime

4. Take it easy when you feel exhausted, don’t get overwhelmed

5. Shift your lifestyle choices- switch off digital devices including social media usage, at night 

How many hours of rest do you need?

Maternal Health Division, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare of India recommends eight hours of sleep at night along with al least two hours of sleep during the day. 

Resting on the left or right side will keep blood flowing well to the baby and ease swelling. For added comfort, place pillows between the legs and under the belly, as pregnancy grows!