What is sleeping on stomach called?

Sleeping on one’s stomach is known as stomach sleeping or prone sleeping. It is one of the more popular sleep positions, with an estimated 25-40% of people choosing this stance for getting rest. Though it is comfortable in the moment and can offer some benefits to back health, it also comes along with a few risks that should be protected against.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Stomach Sleeping

When one sleeps on their stomach, the most common benefit is that the lower spine stays quite straight, which may help some people with chronic back pain. It is also beneficial to people who snore, since sleeping with your face down naturally opens up air passages. On the other side of the coin, stomach sleeping can strain the neck and make lower back pain worse in people who already have issues with that area of their body. It can also cause restricted breathing, due to the pressure on the chest, and can make the spine bear more weight than is ideal.
Moreover, sleeping on your stomach can make you more prone to overheating, as the chest and stomach are in contact with the mattress and unable to dissipate heat. Heat exhaustion can be a serious danger in this position.

Health Risks Associated with Stomach Sleeping

Aside from some aches and pains, stomach sleeping may lead to serious long-term health risks. In some instances, it may push the face into the pillow, often resulting in wrinkles or pressure lines on the cheeks and forehead. Neck strain is also common as you attempt to turn your head sideways so you can breathe.

Though some scientific studies have suggested that stomach sleeping may increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), it is still widely accepted as safe for adults and children alike. However, precautions should still be taken by adjusting mattress firmness, using the correct pillow height, and consulting with a medical professional before deciding this type of sleep is the best for your body.

Tips for Comfortable Stomach Sleeping

If you want to reap the benefits associated with stomach sleeping, but don’t want your body to suffer as a result, here are a few tips to help you achieve a comfortable and safe sleep.

Choose a mattress that is soft enough to be comfortable but firm enough to provide support.
Opt for a thin pillow that is just slightly thicker than the depth of your head.
Place a pillow below your abdomen to support your lower back.
Place a pillow under your ankles or knees to reduce strain on the lower back.
Wear appropriate clothing to keep cool at night.

How to Transition from Back Sleeping to Stomach Sleeping

If you are wanting to make the change from back sleeping to stomach sleeping, it needs to be done in a mindful way in order to allow your body time to adjust. Begin by focusing on good sleep hygiene, such as avoiding screens before bed, staying consistent with a sleep schedule, and engaging in relaxing activities before sleep.

Additionally, the transition from one sleep position to another should be done incrementally. Start by practicing sleeping on your side while allowing your head and neck to rest in the same way they would if you were sleeping on your stomach. Over successive nights, gradually shift more body weight into one’s stomach as you become more comfortable in this new sleep posture.

Alternatives to Stomach Sleeping

If stomach sleeping does not feel like a good option for you, there are a few other positions that may offer similar benefits. Side sleeping is an option that many people find comfortable, as it can also provide pressure relief from gravity while still allowing the lower back to remain straight. With side sleeping however, it is important to choose a pillow that is thick enough to prevent neck pain and provide adequate head support.

Another alternative is the ‘freefall’ position which involves lying on your side with arms by your side, legs slightly bent at the knees, and your head tilted slightly forward. This allows the spine to completely relax and can be beneficial for those suffering from neck or back discomfort.

Should Babies Sleep on Their Stomachs?

For infants and babies, parents should always follow expert advice from their pediatrician when it comes to sleep position. The safest option for young children is always sleeping on their back on a flat surface.

Is it Safe to Sleep on Your Stomach While Pregnant?

Though sleeping on one’s stomach is usually considered safe for non-pregnant individuals, special considerations need to be taken during this special time. During pregnancy, lying flat on one’s stomach can potentially squeeze the baby in uncomfortable ways, leading to reduced fetal movement and potentially less oxygen for the baby. It is recommended that pregnant women use a propped-up side sleeping position so that their baby has plenty of room to move around and get comfortable.

The Benefits of Sleeping on Your Stomach

For those who do choose or have a natural inclination towards stomach sleeping, there are several benefits that can come with it. As mentioned before, it can provide relief from many chronic aches and pains in both the back and neck areas. It can also help those who breathe heavily since it opens up airways, reducing snoring and interruptions during sleep.

How to Avoid Back and Neck Pain From Sleeping on Your Stomach

One of the best ways to avoid back or neck pain from stomach sleeping is by making sure all settings are correct. This means having a mattress that provides adequate support yet not too much firmness as this could put too much strain on the lower back. Additionally, pillow choice is key as having too thick of a pillow will force the neck into an unnatural angle. A thinner pillow that is just slightly thicker than the depth of the head can provide ample support without forcing uncomfortable joints.

Finally, it should be noted that spending too much time on one’s stomach during the day can lead to a sore body when attempting to do so at night. Make sure to take regular breaks during periods of sitting or lying down in order to prevent this type of discomfort.

In conclusion, while stomach sleeping may have some benefits such as relief from chronic aches and snoring, caution needs to be taken in order for one to reap these rewards without putting their body at too much risk. Making sure all equipment such as mattresses and pillows are in proper working order, as well as using small amounts of caution throughout the day should ensure that those engaging in this sleep style do so safely and comfortably.