Pregnancy Week By Week (Week 15)

Some Basic Pointers (Week 15)

Alpha-fetoprotein Testing (AFP)




Pap Smears during Pregnancy



Change Sleeping Positions Now

As you grow larger, finding comfortable positions can become a problem. Don't lie on your back when you sleep. This position can place the uterus on top of important blood vessels (the aorta and inferior vena cava) that run down the back of your abdomen. This can decrease circulation to your baby and parts of your body. Some pregnant women also face breathing problems when lying on their backs. Lying on your stomach puts additional pressure on your growing uterus. This is the reason to learn to sleep on your side. So, start now to learn to sleep on your side; it will pay off later as you become bigger. Sometimes it helps to put extra pillows. Put one behind you so you won't roll onto your back and lie sleeping on your back; another between your legs or rest your top leg on a pillow. There are special pregnancy pillows that support your entire body in the market as well.


Getting a good night's sleep


Sleeping soundly may be difficult for you now or later in pregnancy. Some suggestions below might help:

• Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day

• Don't drink too much fluid at night. Slow down after 6 pm so you don't have to visit the bathroom all night long

• Avoid caffeine after late afternoon

• Get regular exercise

• Sleep in a cool bedroom; 21.1 C is ideal

• If you have heartburn problems, sleep propped up

You may experience shortness of breath due to enlarged abdomen and this will interfere with your sleep. Try lying on your left side. Prop up your head and shoulders on extra pillows. Light exercise and warm showers or soaks may also help. A glass of warm milk may do the trick or if none of these work, try sleeping partially sitting up in a recliner. Read Full Article

Your Nutrition (Week 15)

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