Left vs. Right: What is the best side to sleep on?

Ahead, we’ll explore whether there are any benefits to sleeping on your left or right side and when to choose a specific side to sleep on.

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People in late pregnancy are encouraged to sleep on the left side because this improves blood flow back to the heart, which the enlarged womb interferes with.

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Left side sleeping

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Right side sleeping

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Some people with obstructive sleep apnea are encouraged to sleep on either side and not the back because their snoring and apnea can be worse on the back.

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Left vs. Right: What is the best side to sleep on?

Ahead, we’ll explore whether there are any benefits to sleeping on your left or right side and when to choose a specific side to sleep on.

People in late pregnancy are encouraged to sleep on the left side because this improves blood flow back to the heart, which the enlarged womb interferes with.

Left side sleeping

Left side sleeping

People with heartburn are encouraged to sleep on the left side because this can help improve acid reflux.

Right side sleeping

Congestive heart failure patients seem to sleep more on their right side than on their left.

Some people with obstructive sleep apnea are encouraged to sleep on either side and not the back because their snoring and apnea can be worse on the back.

When choosing a side doesn’t matter

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