Why Rest Matters Just as Much as Preparing for Birth
- Kayla Wamsley
- May 14
- 2 min read

When you’re nearing the end of pregnancy, it can feel like there’s an endless list of things to do. Packing your hospital bag, finalizing your birth plan, setting up the nursery—but what if I told you that one of the most important things you can do to prepare for birth is to simply rest?
The Power of Rest in Late Pregnancy
Your body is doing an incredible amount of work, even when you’re just sitting still. Growing a baby is no small feat, and as you approach labor, your body needs time to recover and recharge. Rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
How Exhaustion Can Affect Labor
Think of labor like a marathon. If you were about to run 26.2 miles, would you pull an all-nighter beforehand? Of course not. Yet so many pregnant women push through exhaustion in the final weeks, not realizing that rest is one of the best ways to set themselves up for a smoother birth experience.
When you’re sleep-deprived:
Your body produces more stress hormones, which can interfere with the natural flow of labor.
You may have less stamina to cope with contractions and the physical demands of birth.
Mental fatigue can make it harder to focus and stay present in the moment.
How to Prioritize Rest Before Labor
If you’re wondering how to get the rest your body needs, try these simple strategies:
1. Do a Daily Body Scan
Pause for a moment and check in with yourself: If labor started right now, would I feel rested enough to go through it? If the answer is no, try to fit in some extra rest today. Even short bursts of rest can make a difference.
2. Take Naps Without Guilt
A nap doesn’t have to be hours long to be effective. Even a 20-minute rest can help reset your energy levels. And if you’re struggling with sleep at night, daytime naps can help make up for lost rest.
3. Remember: If It Looks Like Sleep, It’s Restful
Not everyone can fall asleep on command, and that’s okay. Simply lying down with your eyes closed, practicing deep breathing, or meditating can provide restorative benefits similar to sleep.
Rest Is an Act of Preparation
Resting is not doing nothing—it’s actively preparing your body for one of the biggest physical events of your life. Giving yourself permission to slow down isn’t selfish; it’s one of the best ways to support a healthy, empowered birth.
So take that nap. Put your feet up. Let yourself breathe. Your body is working hard, and it deserves the rest it needs to birth your baby with strength and confidence.
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