My baby is due very soon, and in the last couple of days the baby is nestled on my chest making it quite hard to breath… so much so, that even when I lie down it is painful making it hard to eat or drink properly. Why is this happening?

Answer:

This is pretty common and not a lot to worry about – though if you begin to feel like you can’t breathe at all, call your doctor or midwife and follow their recommendations for treatment immediately.

However, the baby is quite big and filling your abdomen at this point. You likely feel pressure up on your lungs and down on your bladder! Pregnancy can truly get uncomfortable.

Many women have trouble eating and drinking, and many experience very uncomfortable heartburn. Eat several small meals throughout the day, and sip your drinks – but like many women you may find that you’re not eating quite as much in late pregnancy.

When you lie down, lie on your left side to get the maximum blood flow to your little one – this position also tends to help you feel like you’re breathing more easily.

When you’re in a chair you can put a small pillow behind your back to help keep you more upright – this can help you breathe more easily. Sitting on a birth ball may also help.

Spending time on your hands and knees, with your belly hanging below you, is another position that can really help you breath. Try propping up with pillows to support you while you read in this position.

Best of luck with your pregnancy and remember that it will all be worth it when you hold that little baby!