Is insomnia / poor sleep normal during pregnancy?

First, a quick check

If any of this matches what you're experiencing, call your midwife or doctor before waiting it out. Checking is routine, and that's what they're there for.

Sleeplessness with low mood/hopelessness or severe anxiety (mental-health support); loud snoring with pauses/daytime exhaustion.

If none of these apply, here's what's usually going on.

Most common in the 2nd & 3rd trimester. See what else is expected at your stage.

What's usually normal

Difficulty finding a comfortable position and staying asleep.

Why it happens

Discomfort, frequent urination, hormones, anxiety, restless legs.

What can help

Side-sleeping with a pillow between knees, wind-down routine, limit late fluids/screens.

Show the evidence

Source: Office on Women's Health (womenshealth.gov): Body changes and discomforts.

Guidance summarised from published patient-facing material. Urgency wording on this page is taken from the source's own language rather than assigned by us. Thresholds vary between national bodies — follow your own maternity team where they differ.

How we source and check every figure on this site

Educational reference, not medical advice. Warning signs require prompt contact with your midwife/doctor or emergency care. Call your provider about anything that worries you.