Pregnancy is a beautiful journey experienced by women. A road full of learning experiences, emotions and challenges, motherhood is something you ought to be prepared for. Having twins not only comes like a surprise for expecting parents but can also increase the chances of high-risk pregnancy. 
Check out these helpful tips on raising twins. (Source: Pexels) Eat 3 healthy meals a day A healthy diet solves a host of concerns and takes care of necessary nutritional requirements. ” Pregnant women need extra energy for their twins. It is normal if the calorie count goes up, don’t forget you are carrying two babies!” advised Dr Solanki.
She also asked to avoid processed or packaged food and focus on eating fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. You can also add foods to your diet that contain high protein, iron, calcium and vitamins. “Eat a proper meal at least thrice a day. Stay hydrated”, said Dr Solanki. Stay active It is common among women to start taking extra rest as soon as they know about twin pregnancy.
“Staying active yet careful in the beginning months is helpful for both mother and her babies”, said the gynecologist. She added,”Mild exercises and yoga reduces risks and prepares muscles for labor. Ask your doctor for more accurate details.” Sleep sideways with support Everyone has a comfortable sleeping position but especially during pregnancy doctors recommend laying on their sides.
- A mother expecting twins is suggested to sleep on their sides after 16 weeks of pregnancy.
- You may experience slight swelling, back pain, or other common symptoms.
- Wear compression stockings to maintain blood flow, if required”, advised Dr Solanki.
- Prepare yourself ahead of time Read books or material from good resources to know things better and eliminate your doubts about pregnancy.
Prepare maternity dresses, baby products, and clothes in advance to avoid last-minute hurried decisions. Search for professional care or trained nurses, make early appointments to stay at ease and not stress at the last minute. Avoid alcohol It goes without saying but alcohol and smoking are injurious to health for everyone but especially for pregnant women.
They are advised to completely quit alcohol, smoking, and consumption of tobacco substances. “These can increase risks that can result in future medical conditions”, added Dr Solanki. Read the signs Preterm labor and premature birth are common in case of multiple pregnancy cases. “Contact your doctor immediately, and don’t take things lightly if you feel or observe something problematic to avoid complications”, said Dr Solanki.
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Contents
When should I stop sleeping on my back when pregnant with twins?
If you are pregnant and used to sleeping on your back, you may want to get used to a new sleep position now, since it’s not recommended for pregnant people to sleep on their back after 20 weeks of pregnancy, When you lie on your back, the weight of your uterus can compress a major blood vessel that runs down near your spine called the vena cava.
The theory is that compressing the vena cava can disrupt blood flow to your baby, so in general, most doctors recommend avoiding compressing the blood vessel while you sleep. Pregnancy is often a time full of new sleeping positions. In addition to avoiding sleeping on their back, many pregnant people find that they need to adjust their sleeping positions as their belly grows, especially in the third trimester,
Getting comfy can be a challenge when you’re growing a human! Here are more tips for getting a good night’s rest while pregnant.
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When do you start sleeping on your side when pregnant with twins?
Can I sleep on my back during pregnancy? – Research has shown that in the third trimester (after 28 weeks of pregnancy) going to sleep on your back increases your risk of stillbirth. As the link has now been shown in four separate research trials, our advice is to go to sleep on your side in the third trimester because it is safer for your baby.
going to sleep at night returning to sleep after any night wakenings day time naps.
We don’t want you to become anxious about this. If your pregnancy is uncomplicated your risk of stillbirth is low (1 in 200 babies are stillborn). Going to sleep on your side will make it even lower.
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What position is good for having twins?
Sex Positions, Treatments & Herbs To Help You Have Twins 2018.02.05 10,387 Having twins has its advantages. Of course, there is no denying the fact that having two babies together is a lot more burdensome than having one at a time. But imagine how you can avoid going through the pain of pregnancy one more time. 
Factors That Determine The Chances Of Having Twins As said earlier, identical twins could only happen by sheer chance. But, certain factors could influence the chances of having fraternal twins. Family history / Heredity If you are a twin or twins run in your family, you are more likely to have twins.
- However, if your partner has a twin or twins run his family, it is not going to have any influence on your chances.
- It all depends on you because you produce the eggs.
- If you or your mother is a twin, the probability of twins is high.
- You will have higher chances of hyperovulation (releasing two eggs during ovulation process).
A few specific genes combine with hyperovulation and thus increase the frequency of non-identical twins Ethnictiy/Race Your origin also has a strong influence on your chance of having twins. Asians and Hispanics have fewer chances of producing twins, whereas Africans are highly probable, followed by Europeans.
Type of Body (height/weight) Yes, this is strange, but taller women are more likely than shorter ones to conceive with twins. Also, heavier women have higher chances than thinner women.Women who have a well-nourished diet are at a higher probability of producing twins than those who have a reduced and low-fat diet.
A research study published by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology states that the increasing rates of multiple births are due to increased rates of obesity. It found out that women with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 and above are more likely to produce twins. 
- Best Ways To Get Pregnant With Twins Naturally
- If you want to try for twins the natural way without resorting to any treatments, try these options out:
- Consume Dairy Products
According to research by Dr. Gary Steinman et al., eating dairy products is correlated to multiple pregnancies (6). Women who eat dairy have five times more chances to produce twins than women who do not consume these products. Some scientists believe that it is not just the dairy products, but also growth hormones present in milk (dairy from growth hormone-treated cows) help in having twins.
Stop Birth Control Pills Birth control pills play a pivotal role in helping you conceive twins naturally. When you stop taking the birth control medication, your body takes some time to find its natural rhythm. It causes the body to have a higher hormone flux, than normal. If you try conceiving around this time, there will be a greater chance of having twins,
Pregnancy While Breastfeeding If you still breastfeeding your toddler and get pregnant again, you are more likely to have twins. Your body produces a higher percentage of prolactin during the breastfeeding phase, and it increases your chances of conceiving twins.
Have Your Partner Eat Zinc Rich Foods Foods rich in zinc like green leafy vegetables, oysters, bread, and seeds stimulate sperm production. It, therefore, improves the probability of fertilizing more than one egg. Space Between Pregnancies To elevate your chances of conceiving twins, have enough gap between your pregnancies.
Quick conceptions hamper your chances of having twins. 
- Best Sex Positions To Conceive Twins
- Though having twin babies is not in your hands, some sexual positions may increase your probability of having them.
- Side by Side
It is also known as a doggy style where the woman will position by bending her knees, and her partner will penetrate from behind. In this position, the couple will be able to conceive twins as the cervix will be more approachable to the sperms.
- Standing Up Position
- It is also another doggy style where there is a chance of deep penetration.
- Missionary Position
- The man-on-top position helps the sperm to enter the egg easily, and it is the best sex position to produce twins.
- Rear Entry Position
- Here, the partner enters from behind, and in this position, the sperm remains close to the cervix of the woman.
- Fertility Herbs For Twins
- There are also certain herbs which help improve fertility, in particular with the conception of twins or multiples.
- Evening Primrose Oil
Primrose oil is famous for its fertility boosting property from centuries. It helps in promoting healthy production of the cervical mucus that flows in the reproductive tract. Healthy mucus allows the sperm to survive for longer days within the ovary. It is advisable to take evening primrose oil at the peak time of menstruation and continue it up to ovulation.
Licorice This sweet herb regulates the menstrual cycle and makes it easier for you to keep track of your ovulation days. Licorice helps in controlling the hormonal level of testosterone and estrogen, thus supporting the entire process of conception. Flaxseed Oil Flaxseed oil possesses a great ability to boost fertility in women and increases your chances of conceiving twins naturally.
It regulates the hormonal production and maintains a regular menstrual cycle. It ensures a proper balance of progesterone and estrogen hormones. Sweet Cassava It is the most efficient herbal supplement, known for its effect on fertility. It increases your chances of having twins by its hyper-ovulation property.
The potent phytoestrogens present in cassava help in regulating the female hormones. Black Cohosh This traditional herb can effectively alleviate the symptoms associated with pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause. The herb strengthens the uterine muscles and is beneficial for women with weak pelvic floors (16).
Though it does not directly increase the chances of having twins, it improves fertility rates, which may increase the probability of twin babies. Vitex (Chaste Tree Berry) Vitex helps in treating females suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- The herb helps in regulating the hormone levels, reduces the levels of androgens that contribute towards PCOS and helps in promoting healthy ovulatory function.
- Vitex helps in the prevention or reduction of ovarian cysts in females.
- It is useful in improving the probability of twin babies as there is a chance for the woman to double ovulate.
Maca Root Maca root serves as an adaptogen and promotes healthy reproductive functioning in the female body. Maca root improves overall fertility in both men and women, thereby indirectly improving the chances of producing twins. As we have mentioned above, all these are only attempts to get pregnant with twins.
- Photo Credit: Pinterest
: Sex Positions, Treatments & Herbs To Help You Have Twins
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What not to do when you’re pregnant with twins?
Drink Alcohol, Use Drugs, or Smoke – 
JoKMedia / Getty Images It’s never advisable to drink alcohol excessively, smoke, or take drugs, whether you are pregnant or not. When you are pregnant, doing so exposes your unborn babies to toxic substances, raising their risk of birth defects and chronic illnesses.
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Do twin pregnancies go on bed rest?
Women with a multiple pregnancy are often advised to rest in bed at home or in hospital to reduce the risk of preterm birth and other pregnancy complications. Why is this important?
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How much harder are twins?
You Can Only Control the Things Within Your Control – “Having twins is not twice as hard—it’s exponentially more difficult,” says Natalie Diaz, author of What To Do When You’re Having Two and CEO of Twiniversity, a global support network for parents of twins. 
Beyoncé at the 2017 Grammys in February, shortly after announcing her pregnancy. Getty Images Her main tip if you just found out if you’re having twins? Remind yourself that you can only control the things within your control—and don’t freak out just yet.
Here’s what you can do: since twins are often born early, you’ll want to make sure your nursery is ready for your babies by the time you’re 32 weeks pregnant. Beyond that, there’s only so much you can control when you’re expecting. Most importantly, remember to take extra good care of yourself while pregnant.
Be sure to drink your water. Remember to rest. Listen to your body. It may sound like basic advice, but with twin pregnancies there are many more risks, Diaz says. Since bed rest is common for women pregnant with twins after 30 weeks—or 7.5 months—be prepared to go on maternity leave earlier than you’d think, just in case.
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What side controls twins?
Does genetics affect the chance of having twins? That is a very interesting question! And one that many people wonder about. Twin genetics depend on what kind of twins we are talking about. Having identical twins is not genetic. On the other hand, fraternal twins can run in families.
Genetics can definitely play a role in having fraternal twins. For example, a woman that has a sibling that is a fraternal twin is 2.5 times more likely to have twins than average! However, for a given pregnancy, only the mother’s genetics matter. Fraternal twins happen when two eggs are simultaneously fertilized instead of just one.
A father’s genes can’t make a woman release two eggs. It sounds like fraternal twins do indeed run in your family! But, since your son is the father, his genes are on the wrong side of the family tree. So, your family history likely didn’t play a role in his wife’s twin pregnancy.
- The answer would be different if you were asking about a daughter.
- Also, although your son’s family history of twins can’t increase his wife’s chance of having twins, he can pass those genes down to your granddaughter.
- With your strong family history of fraternal twins, this just might increase the chances of your granddaughter having twins! But, your daughter-in-law is not necessarily having twins because of her genetics.
Other things like environment, nutrition, age, and weight have also been linked to having twins as well. And there is always simple chanceevery woman has a chance at having fraternal twins. It is just that some women have a higher or lower chance. 
Identical twins like these do not run in families. Fraternal twins can though. Wait a minute. One type of twins has a genetic basis and the other does not? And, only the mom’s genetics matter? How is that possible? Don’t worry. It makes a lot of sense once we break down the biology.
- The important difference between identical and fraternal twins is the number of fertilized eggs involved.
- Identical twins come from a single fertilized egg.
- Fraternal twins come from two different ones.
- Identical twins happen when a single embryo splits in two soon after fertilization.
- This is why identical twins have identical DNA.
They came from the same fertilized egg. Since embryo splitting is a random event that happens by chance, it doesn’t run in families. Genes are not involved. The same is not true for fraternal twins. Fraternal twins happen when two independent eggs are each fertilized by different sperm. 
Fraternal twins happen when two eggs are released in one cycle. Image from Usually, a woman only releases a single egg at a time. Fraternal twins can only happen if a mother releases two eggs in one cycle. This is called hyperovulation, Unlike embryo splitting, ovulation is a normal biological process that is controlled by our genes.
And, different women can have different versions of these ovulation genes. Some women have versions (called alleles) of these genes that make them more likely to hyperovulate. This means there is a higher chance that two eggs could get fertilized at once, leading to fraternal twins. The gene versions that increase the chance of hyperovulation can be passed down from parent to child.
This is why fraternal twins run in families. However, only women ovulate. So, the mother’s genes control this and the fathers don’t. This is why having a background of twins in the family matters only if it is on the mother’s side. And why your son’s family genetics did not play a role in his twins.
- Some older Ask-a-Geneticist posts talk about a lot of this stuff, but your question got me thinking.
- Our last answer on twins was done so long ago.
- Has recent research discovered anything new on this fascinating topic? They have indeed at least if you are a sheep! Scientists often turn to animals when they want to study a biological process.
Some of the newest information we have about twin genetics comes from studying sheep. Sheep were chosen because, like people, they typically give birth to a single lamb. However, they can sometimes have twins and triplets. 
We can learn a lot about twinning by studying breeds of sheep that are more likely to have twins. Image from Wikimedia Different breeds of sheep naturally have higher or lower twin rates. These different breeds have different versions (called alleles) of some of their genes.
Specific alleles can make certain breeds more likely to have twins. We can compare the genes between these different breeds to try to find the genes controlling twinning. And, this is just what scientists did. A for genes controlling twinning in sheep identified several interesting ones. The breeds with higher twin rates had different alleles of these genes! Three key sheep genes identified were named BMP15, GDF9, and BMPR1B.
The specific gene names are not really important. Just know that all of these genes are involved in controlling ovulation. Which makes sense! Remember, hyper-ovulation increases the chance of having fraternal twins. The sheep breeds with higher than average twin rates had versions of the genes that increase ovulation.
Sheep are a great tool to help us study twin genetics. The tricky part is connecting these findings to people. It is harder to study humans. Scientists have tried to find links between the genes identified in sheep and human twin genetics. So far they’ve found that some match up and some don’t. This, in and of itself, is interesting! Another gene called follicle-stimulating hormone, or FSH for short, has also been linked to twins in humans.
Like the other three genes identified, this FSH is also involved in promoting ovulation, and mothers of fraternal twins often have high levels of it. It seems that twin genetics is more complicated in humans than in sheep. More genes are likely involved.
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What is the safest way to give birth to twins?
Twins are more likely to be born early, often before 38 weeks, so it’s important to understand your birth options. Less than half of all twin pregnancies last beyond 37 weeks. Because of the likelihood that your babies will be born early, there is a good chance one or both of them will spend some time in special care,
As twins are often born prematurely, it’s a good idea to discuss birth options with your midwife or doctor early in your pregnancy. You should also discuss where you would like to give birth. You will most likely be advised to give birth in a hospital because there’s a higher chance of complications with a twin birth.
It’s common for more medical staff to be involved in the birth of twins, such as a midwife, an obstetrician and two paediatricians – one for each baby. While the process of labour is the same as when single babies are born, twin babies are more closely monitored.
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What is the safest way to birth twins?
Your birth choices with twins – It’s a good idea to discuss your birth options with your midwife or consultant early on in your pregnancy. You’ll normally be advised to give birth in a hospital, as there’s a higher chance of complications with twins. There are usually more health professionals at a multiple birth – for example, there may be 2 midwives, an obstetrician and 2 paediatricians (1 for each baby).
For more information on who’s who, read about the antenatal team, The process of labour is more or less the same as for 1 baby, but your maternity team will usually advise you to have your babies electronically monitored because of the higher risk of complications. This means attaching belts with sensors (1 for each twin) to your bump.
You’ll still be able to move around into different positions. Once your waters have broken, your midwife may ask your permission to attach a clip attached to a wire to the first baby’s head to get a more accurate measure of their heartbeat. You’ll be offered a drip in case it’s needed later – for example, to restart contractions after your first baby is born.
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What is full term for twins?
Early labor and low birth weight – Twins, on average, come out sooner — and smaller — than singletons. Your womb may be a cozy place, but it can get crowded in a hurry as they grow. That’s why full-term for twins is considered 38 weeks, not the typical 40 weeks.
Preterm birth — delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy — is the most common complication when you’re pregnant with multiples. About 50 percent of twins are born early. Twin delivery, on average, occurs around 35 to 36 weeks. Triplets and quadruplets may come even sooner. Moms of singletons, on average, deliver at 39 weeks.
Since many twin births happen early, the average twin arrives weighing about 5 1/2 pounds. This is considered low birth weight, but most 5-pounders end up doing just fine, thanks to medical advances in caring for small newborns. All preterm babies are at increased risk for health complications during infancy and long-term issues like learning disabilities and even cerebral palsy.
The risk goes up the more preterm they are and the smaller they are at birth. To reduce your babies’ risk, know the signs of preterm labor and call your doctor if you experience any of them. Twins are typically monitored more closely than single babies for those signs using measures like cervical lengths.
Signs of early delivery can include the following, though most moms who experience these symptoms don’t give birth early. But it’s worth checking in with your practitioner nonetheless.
Persistent cramping (like period cramps that can but don’t always include diarrhea, nausea or indigestion)Painful contractions 10 or fewer minutes apart that don’t subside when you change positionsPain that comes and goes in the center of the back or wrapping in a band around the lower back Vaginal discharge that’s watery, pink-streaked or brownish with blood
Adequate nutrition and weight gain can actually help lower your risk of preterm labor. So you’ll want to make sure you’re taking care of your health and following a good pregnancy diet that includes the extra calories (about 600 per day for twins) you may need to help maintain your babies’ growth in utero.
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Do you need to drink more water when pregnant with twins?
What To Eat While Pregnant With Twins A twin doesn’t exactly mean triple the food. But it may mean more calories, protein, water, and vitamins. For a person carrying multiples, a balanced, nutritious diet is key for the health of the pregnant person and the fetuses.
- Below are four ways a twin parent-to-be can ensure they get the nourishment they need throughout their pregnancy.
- A person who is pregnant with multiples needs an additional 300 calories per day per fetus.
- So, someone carrying twins should aim to consume an extra 600 calories daily.
- If you are pregnant with more than triplets, talk to an OB-GYN to figure out a healthy weight during your pregnancy.
While you should never restrict calories, especially during pregnancy with, it’s helpful to grasp true calorie needs and use that information to guide your choices. Twin pregnancies are often associated with a risk of low birth weight, so it’s important to ensure you’re getting enough calories and nutrients.
- While you’re carrying twins, consuming adequate protein is critical for fetal development and your needs.
- After the 20th week of pregnancy, during the middle of the second trimester, a pregnant person carrying twins should consume an extra 50 grams of protein per day (25 grams per fetus).
- Fifty grams of protein is roughly six ounces of roasted chicken breast.
Another way to ensure an optimal protein supply is to get your daily calories from the following sources:
- Protein: About 20% of your daily calories
- Fat: About 40% of your daily calories
- Carbohydrates: About 40% of your daily calories
Also, focus on fiber-rich carbohydrates, like pulses, whole grains, vegetables, and fruit. If you’re concerned about consuming too much protein or too little, or if you eat a diet, you may want to consult with a dietitian. Some research suggests that pregnant people carrying twins who received frequent dietary counseling gave birth to neonates with normal birth weights.
- Aids with digestion
- Circulates nutrients in the body
- Helps form amniotic fluid around the fetus
- Helps eliminate waste in the body
To stay hydrated, pregnant people need 64 to 96 ounces of water per day. High-liquid foods like yogurt, soup, fruits, and vegetables can meet some of those requirements. But you’ll probably still need to drink about eight to 12 cups of plain water daily. To get into a water-drinking routine, think of your day divided into four blocks:
- The time you wake up to mid-morning
- Mid-morning to lunchtime
- Lunch to mid-afternoon
- Mid-afternoon to dinner
Then, with a few caveats, aim to drink two to three cups of water during each block. Cut off your fluids early enough in the evening so you won’t be running to the bathroom all night. And remember that if you’re active and sweating, you may need to drink a bit more during and after exercise.
- Good nutrition is key for every pregnancy.
- Aside from a routine prenatal vitamin supplement, some experts recommend that people carrying twins consider taking additional magnesium and zinc doses.
- But other research has found that additional vitamins may be unnecessary.
- Another supplement that some experts recommend is an omega-3 fatty acid.
The nutrient may reduce the risk of pre-term birth and low birth weight, which often occur with twin pregnancies. Choosing meals and snacks with nutrient-packed whole foods is one of the best places to start. But always talk to a healthcare provider before taking a supplement.
- Unpasteurized juice, cider, or milk
- Raw eggs (or foods that contain raw eggs, such as eggnog, tiramisu, and homemade ice cream)
- Pre-made meat or seafood salads
- Undercooked meat and poultry
- Raw dough or batter
- Raw seafood
If you are pregnant with twins, you may need extra calories, protein, water, and vitamins to ensure that you and your babies are getting enough energy and nutrients. If unsure where to start, consider consulting with a dietitian if you need personalized guidance and support. They can help you meet your nutrient needs not only during pregnancy but also during postpartum breastfeeding needs. Thanks for your feedback! : What To Eat While Pregnant With Twins
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Can we climb stairs during twin pregnancy?
1. Can pregnant women climb stairs? – Pregnant women can climb stairs, but pregnant women can’t climb a lot of stairs, especially in the first 3 months of pregnancy. Falling in early pregnancy can cause miscarriage or early labor. So, if you have to climb stairs, you should be more restrained and careful.
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Do you have to go on bedrest with twins?
With the increased risk of complications associated with multiple births, many moms require some level of bed rest during their pregnancy. Bed rest could be prescribed to alleviate a potential health risk to the mother (such as pre-eclampsia) or for the babies (such as preterm labor ).
- Some doctors routinely prescribe rest after 24 weeks, while others take a “wait and see” approach.
- Some lucky mothers will survive their entire pregnancy without much adjustment to their normal routine.
- However others may require hospitalization or some form of modified bed rest at home.
- Since there’s really no way to predict the outcome, your best bet is to be prepared for any eventuality.
How many months pregnant should you stop lying on your back?
The best advice if you’re expecting – So what’s an already uncomfy expectant mother to do? After 20 weeks of pregnancy, try not to spend the entire night on your back, Dr. Zanotti advises. She suggests putting a pillow between your back and the mattress as insurance.
- That way, even if you do roll over, you’re on a bit of a tilt.
- As long as you’re not flat on your back, you’re going to be fine,” she says.
- Even if you can be on a 20- to 30-degree angle, that’s going to relieve any potential pressure on your inferior vena cava.
- I think most people, even if they were back sleepers, can be comfortable sleeping with just that bit of an angle.” While it’s sensible to be cautious, Dr.
Zanotti says it’s also important to comfort those who already have enough on their minds. “I’ve had patients who’ve woken up on their back and they’re worried they’re going to cause their child brain damage. That has not been shown,” she says. “We don’t see a higher risk of autism or developmental disorders in those who’ve slept on their back for a little bit.”
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How long can you lay on your back for pregnancy?
If you normally sleep on your back, it’s safe to continue doing so during the first months of pregnancy. But from 28 weeks, it’s safer for your baby if you sleep on your side – whichever side you prefer. Don’t worry if you wake up on your back, just roll on to your side. As your bump gets bigger, you may also find that it’s more comfortable to sleep on your side.
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