If you’ve always been a stomach sleeper, it’s natural to want to sleep on your stomach after giving birth. However, you should sleep on your back or side for at least the first week post partum. While sleeping on your back after giving birth isn’t always comfortable, it can help reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. If you had a Caesarean section, sleeping on your stomach will put pressure on the stitches, causing wound breakdown.
Let’s take a deep dive:
Sleeping on your stomach after giving birth
There are a few things you’ll want to avoid doing after giving birth, and sleeping on your stomach is one of them. This is because sleeping in this position can put pressure on your uterus, which can be painful and uncomfortable. You may find that you’re unable to sleep on your stomach for a while after giving birth, as the after-effects of delivery can make it difficult to get comfortable in this position.
Sleeping on your stomach can also increase lochia discharge (post partum bleed), causing more blood loss. If you had a Caesarean, you definitely shouldn’t sleep on your stomach for at least 4-6 weeks until the wound is fully healed. Putting pressure on your stitches can them to pop and wound breakdown.
Plus, if you’re breastfeeding, your breasts and nipples will be so tender that you won’t be able to put any pressure on them. Check out the most comfy post partum nursing bras.
How long after delivery can you sleep on your stomach?
There is no definitive answer, as everyone’s body is different. However, many moms who had v*ginal delivery find that they can sleep on their stomach comfortably within two to four weeks after delivery.
There are a lot of myths out there about what you can and cannot do after you deliver your baby. One of the most common is whether or not you can sleep on your stomach. The answer is yes, you can sleep on your stomach – but only after your uterus has shrunk.
If you had a Caesarean, you’re safe to sleep on your stomach after your wound is healed (it takes about 6 weeks). If you’re not sure, get clearance from your doctor before you change your sleeping position.
Most doctors will tell you that it’s safe to sleep on your stomach three to four weeks after delivery, as long as you’re feeling comfortable doing so. However, if you’re still experiencing pain or discomfort, then it’s best to wait until those symptoms have subsided before trying to get comfortable in a different position.
In general, it’s important to take things slow after giving birth. Your body has just gone through a lot of changes, and it needs time to recover. So be sure to listen to your doctor’s advice and take things at your own pace!
This ortho pillow makes stomach sleeping so much more comfy:
Check it out on AmazonHow do you sleep with stitches after birth?
After the initial week, when your uterus has shrunk and your bleeding is better, some new moms find that they are able to sleep on their stomachs while others find that they need to sleep on their sides. Speak to your doctor if you have any concerns.
If you have external stitches, which are the most common, you can generally sleep however is most comfortable for you. Some women find that sleeping on their stomach is most comfortable, while others prefer to sleep on their back or side.
If you have internal stitches, you’ll need to be a bit more careful when choosing your sleeping position. Sleeping on your back may be uncomfortable, so try sleeping on your side instead. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about how to sleep safely after giving birth.
This amazing Tempur pillow helped me sleep comfortably after giving birth:
Check it out on AmazonThe best way to sleep after giving birth
After giving birth, a woman’s body needs time to heal. Sleep is an important part of the healing process, and it is crucial that new mothers get as much sleep as possible. However, getting good sleep can be difficult for new parents.
Sleeping on your back is a safe way to sleep post partum. However, if you find it uncomfortable, try propping yourself up 45 degrees. This will help you breathe easier and prevent heartburn if that’s a problem for you. Post-caesarean, I found lying on my back with a high-profile pillow was the most comfy sleep position for me.
You can also sleep on your side, either flat or propped up. To help prevent your stitches from rubbing, you can use a pillow between your thighs. If you had one of those pregnancy pillows, now is the time to make full use of it.
Check it out on AmazonOne of the most important things you can focus on is your breathing. When you are sleeping, make sure you breathe deeply and relax your whole body. This will help you fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
To wrap up
Sleeping on your stomach after giving birth is not recommended, at least for the first week or two. Preferably, you should sleep on your back or side. However, it’s always best to speak with your doctor if you’re not sure. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort while sleeping on your stomach, speak with your doctor about possible solutions.
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