Pregnancy is a time of incredible transformation—physically, emotionally, and mentally. But with all that change comes new challenges, and one of the most common (and frustrating) is insomnia. Whether it’s the growing bump, racing thoughts, or hormonal shifts, many expectant parents find themselves wide awake when they most need rest.
Pregnancy-related insomnia is often caused by physical discomfort, hormonal changes, and emotional stress. If you're functioning well during the day, you are probably getting enough sleep and shouldn’t worry. However, if you’re experiencing negative moods, fatigue, poor energy, and overall absence of wellness, a lack of sleep is taking its toll on you. Stress reduction and maintaining internal calm are crucial for health and well-being as is getting enough sleep, which is just as important, if not more so, than diet and exercise, so make them among your top priorities.
Please consult your integrative or holistic medical practitioner if this has been a chronic problem for you even before pregnancy, as you may suffer from clinical depression or anxiety, hyperthyroidism, chronic high levels of stress, or other health problems that should be evaluated.
Once more serious conditions have been ruled out, try the suggestions below.
Natural Insomnia Prevention
Nutrition & Lifestyle Tweaks
- Avoid caffeine, chocolate, and stimulating medications after 4 PM
- Limit naps to under 30 minutes
- Exercise gently in the morning or afternoon—try walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga
- Stick to a regular sleep/wake schedule and get 30 minutes of sunlight daily to support your circadian rhythm
- Cut screen time in the evening and dim the lights—consider amber lighting or salt lamps
Wind Down with a Calming Routine
A relaxing evening ritual signals your body it’s time to rest.
Try:
- A warm bath with Epsom salts and a few drops of lavender oil
- Gentle stretching or restorative yoga poses (like legs-up-the-wall), yoga nidra meditation
- Reading something light and soothing
- Sipping herbal tea (e.g., chamomile, lemon balm)
- Using an eye mask and white noise machine if needed
- Create a space that feels peaceful—no work emails, no to-do lists, no clutter. This is your sanctuary.
PREVENTING INSOMNIA THROUGH STRESS REDUCTION
Stress and an overactive mind are major sleep disruptors. Ground yourself with simple breath practices:
- Deep Belly Breathing
Inhale deeply through the nose, filling your belly and chest.
Exhale slowly through the mouth, releasing tension.
Repeat for 8–10 cycles, especially before bed or during the night if you wake up.
- Box Breathing
Inhale for 4 seconds → hold for 4 → exhale for 4 → hold for 4.
This rhythmic breath calms your nervous system.
- Forced Exhalation
Exhale fully, squeezing out stale air, then allow a natural inhale.
Repeat for several rounds—this resets your breath and your mind.
Even just a few minutes of these can soothe your system and ease you into sleep.
SLEEP HYGIENE
- Make your sleep environment work for you:
- Keep your bedroom cool (mid-60s°F is ideal)
- Block light with blackout curtains or a sleep mask
- Use a supportive mattress or bed board
- Try Earthing sheets or a cooling mattress pad if you overheat easily
How to Get Better Sleep During Pregnancy: A Holistic Approach to Rest & Comfort
Pregnancy can be beautiful, but it can also be exhausting. To avoid fatigue, it’s important to prioritize rest and give your body the sleep it truly needs. Try going to bed a little earlier, sleeping in a bit later, or even sneaking in a nap during the day when you can.
Having a supportive sleep surface is key, so choose a firm mattress or consider using a bed board to add extra support. Some women also find sleeping on the floor or a futon helpful for a more grounded rest. But no matter where you sleep, a good pregnancy pillow is a must-have.
One of my personal favorites is the Momcozy U Shaped Full Body Pregnancy Pillow. It’s incredibly supportive, ergonomic, and – most importantly – super comfortable. This pillow has been a game-changer for many mamas, with some even saying it feels like they’re sleeping on a cloud every night! The U-shape design hugs your body, offering support for your head, belly, hips, back, and legs, and helps keep everything in perfect alignment so you can sleep deeply and comfortably. No more tossing and turning or waking up with aches and pains.
What makes the Momcozy pillow stand out is how it adapts to your body’s pressure points. It helps promote better blood circulation, reduces back and hip pain, and helps prevent leg swelling. Plus, it maintains natural spinal alignment for deeper, more restorative sleep. It’s designed to replace multiple pillows – the full body support means no more stacking pillows or adjusting all night long.

The Momcozy pillow is crafted with high-quality materials, including OEKO-TEX certified fabric, which is gentle on sensitive skin. The premium polyester fill keeps the pillow in great shape, even after continuous use. Trust me, I’ve tried it myself, and I can honestly say it’s been a lifesaver. I’ll be using it regularly, as it provides all the comfort I need, without the hassle of rearranging extra pillows.
Getting enough rest during pregnancy is so important, and with the right tools, you can make sure you're getting the quality sleep you deserve.
DURING TIMES OF INSOMNIA
Don’t stress if you’re awake—just rest quietly and allow your body to relax
Try "paradoxical intention": tell yourself to stay awake (it removes pressure to fall asleep)
Get up and do something calming—fold laundry, read a book, stretch—and return to bed only when sleepy
Journaling or writing down worries with a morning action plan can help clear your mind
Avoid sleeping pills unless prescribed and approved by your provider. Instead, consider natural remedies like sleep supplements and herbal modalities safe for pregnancy, homeopathy, acupuncture, or guided hypnotherapy if you need more support.
In Summary
Sleep during pregnancy can be elusive—but you have tools to make it better. With mindful breathwork, a cozy bedtime ritual, stress-reducing practices, and the right pillow and sleep setup, you can reclaim restful nights.
You’re doing an amazing job growing new life. Be gentle with yourself. Prioritize rest. And know that deep, healing sleep is not just a dream—it’s possible.