Insomnia in the third trimester

A growing abdomen can make comfortable positions difficult. Fetal movement, back or pelvic discomfort, heartburn, leg cramps, nasal congestion, and frequent urination may break up the night. Thoughts about labour, birth, or caring for a baby can keep the mind active. Restless legs, low mood, and anxiety also deserve attention. Difficulty sleeping does not by itself show that something is wrong with the pregnancy, but a sudden change alongside other symptoms should be reported.

Ask your maternity team which side-lying position and pillow arrangement suit you; pillows between the knees or supporting the abdomen may ease strain. Keep evening meals smaller if reflux is troublesome, and ask before using any antacid, sleep aid, herbal product, or pain medicine. Use a regular wake time, daylight, gentle daytime movement, and a calm wind-down routine. Avoid taking someone else’s prescription medicine. If worry is keeping you awake, write questions for the next appointment and discuss emotional support rather than carrying the concern alone.

Contact your maternity team for severe headache, vision changes, sudden swelling, chest pain, breathlessness, bleeding, fluid loss, painful regular contractions, or reduced fetal movement according to your local maternity advice. Seek help for severe anxiety, low mood, confusion, or thoughts of self-harm. Mention insomnia at routine care when it is persistent or causing unsafe daytime sleepiness.

Could reflux, pain, restless legs, mood, or another pregnancy symptom be disrupting my sleep? Which medicines and sleep positions are appropriate for me?