**Pregnancy Mamas Go Ahead and Take a Nap: Science Shows It’s Good for Your Baby**.
[Original article](https://www.mother.ly/pregnancy/preganant-mamas-go-ahead-and-take-a-nap-science-shows-its-good-for-your-baby).
As a mom-to-be, you’re likely experiencing a range of emotions, from excitement to anxiety. One thing that can help you cope with these emotions is getting enough sleep..
But what if you’re struggling to fall asleep at night? Or you’re waking up frequently? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many pregnant women experience sleep problems..
One way to combat sleep deprivation is to take naps during the day. Napping can help you catch up on lost sleep and improve your overall mood..
In fact, a recent study even found that napping during pregnancy may be beneficial for your baby. The study, which was published in the journal Sleep, found that babies whose mothers napped during pregnancy had better sleep patterns and were less likely to wake up frequently at night..
The researchers believe that napping may help to regulate the levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that can interfere with sleep. When cortisol levels are high, it can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep..
Napping can also help to improve your mood and reduce stress levels. When you’re well-rested, you’re better able to cope with the challenges of pregnancy and motherhood..
So, if you’re feeling tired during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to take a nap. It’s good for you and your baby!.
**How to Nap Effectively**.
* **Choose a comfortable spot.** Find a quiet place where you can relax and fall asleep easily..
* **Nap for 20-30 minutes.** This is the ideal length of time for a nap. Any longer and you may wake up feeling groggy..
* **Don’t nap too close to bedtime.** If you nap too close to bedtime, you may have trouble falling asleep at night..
* **Nap regularly.** Try to nap at the same time each day. This will help to regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle..
**Benefits of Napping During Pregnancy**.
* **Improved sleep quality for your baby**.
* **Reduced stress levels**.
* **Improved mood**.
* **Increased energy levels**.
* **Reduced risk of preterm birth**.
**Conclusion**.
If you’re struggling to get enough sleep during pregnancy, don’t be afraid to take a nap. Napping is a great way to improve your sleep quality, reduce stress levels, and boost your energy levels. It’s also good for your baby! So, go ahead and take a nap today. You and your baby will be glad you did..
