Sleeping positions and foetal hiccups

Yes, babies get hiccups in utero. They drink amniotic fluid and this sometimes causes the same type of oesophageal reflex. As a matter of fact, I had a couple in the clinic this morning and the baby had hiccups which we could hear with the Doppler heart monitor. It is a very rhythmic bumping sort of feeling. This is normal.

A good position for mothers to sleep in is on their sides. The mattress should be firm enough to support their curves and it is helpful to have a pillow or 2 between the legs so that the upper leg is even with the hipbone. Mothers in the later stages of pregnancy need to shift positions more frequently. They need rest periods and naps during the day. Babies don't feel ‘discomfort’ in their positions as we do. They are floating in a weightless environment and have ample room for stretching. So don't worry about your baby's comfort, but about your wife’s. She should try to get in a couple of hours of rest on her side during the day.

Pain in the legs (sharp cramps with stretching) can be caused by too much or too little calcium in the diet. About 1500 - 2000 mg of calcium is about right for pregnancy. Some women experience hip pain, which is caused by the relaxation of the supporting ligaments and muscles due to the hormone changes of pregnancy. There is not a lot that can be done for this, but being in good physical shape prior to the pregnancy can help build up good supportive musculature. Sometimes a bit of heat or a massage can help.

I hope this answers some questions.

Good luck to you and your family.