Patient's question:
I am currently 165 days pregnant, and the baby has been moving mostly on the left side of my abdomen, seemingly never on the right. Is this normal?Additionally, whenever I sleep on my left side, the baby moves constantly, but when I switch to my right side, he stops moving actively. Is it possible that sleeping on the left side compresses the baby? What sleeping position is best for this situation?
Follow-up question to the first issue: Why does the baby keep moving on the left side? I’m quite puzzled. Is this normal?
I’ve seen in some resources that the best sleeping position for pregnant women should be on the left.
Doctor's answer:
Mid-pregnancy (4-7 months), during this period, it is important to protect the abdomen and avoid direct external force. If the pregnant woman has excessive amniotic fluid or is carrying twins, a side-lying sleeping position should be adopted, which can make the pregnant woman more comfortable, while other sleeping positions may cause compression symptoms. If the pregnant woman feels leg heaviness, an supine position can be adopted, with soft pillows slightly elevating the legs.Late pregnancy (8-10 months), the sleeping position during this period is particularly important. The sleeping position of the pregnant woman is crucial for both her and the baby's well-being. A left-lying position is recommended. This position can correct the right rotation of the enlarged uterus, reduce the compression of the uterine aorta and iliac arteries, improve blood circulation, increase blood supply to the fetus, and promote fetal growth and development.