Why Do I Sleep On My Stomach?

Updated 3 Days Ago
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Several factors relate to people sleeping on their stomachs. These reasons include anxiety and a constant desire for control. Stomach sleepers also have a higher tendency to engage in risky behavior.

Stomach sleepers

People that sleep on their stomach often do so for a variety of reasons. A possible reason for stomach sleeping habits is due to an inherent need for control or some form of hidden anxiety. For those whose favorite sleeping position is on the stomach, there are some things you should know.

First, sleeping on your stomach is one of the worst positions for your body. Consistently sleeping in this position can lead to back and neck pain. This is why stomach sleepers need to learn how to stop sleeping on their stomach.

The best way to deter this damaging sleep habit is to test out other positions. Then, through experimentation, stomach sleepers can curb this bad nighttime habit. For those unable to find a different comfortable position, learning how to sleep on your stomach can be an alternative.

There are a couple of key considerations to think about if you must sleep on your stomach. First, you should ensure you have an unrestricted pathway for breathing. The next step is to make sure you have an extra supportive pillow to keep your head in a natural position.

Back sleepers

A great alternative to stomach sleeping is becoming a back sleeper. Back sleepers generally lay flat on their back and require a highly supportive mattress. The upside to sleeping on your back is that its one of the best positions for your body.

Some key benefits of sleeping on your back include a neutral neck position that mimics your natural posture. Additionally, laying flat on your back and using the proper mattress type will allow for even weight distribution. This can relieve pressure and create a more relaxing sleep experience.

Side sleepers

Sleeping on your side is just as common as sleeping on your back. Side sleeping is also more beneficial than sleeping on your stomach and can be quite comfortable. There are many variations among side sleepers and also best practices.

If you're someone that suffers from neck or back pain, side sleeping is a great posture. To provide even more relief for back pain, you can place a rolled-up blanket between your legs. Even though side sleeping has a lot of benefits, it's not free of issues.

For side sleepers, if you've chosen the incorrect type of mattress, you'll know it. You may experience numbness in your arms and legs. The trick to avoiding this is to get a great mattress designed for your sleeping style.

Combination sleepers

Most sleepers fall into the combination sleeper category. Conforming to this sleeping style means that you alternate between stomach sleeping, back sleeping, and side sleeping periodically throughout the night. This sleeping style provides a good balance that limits the downsides of all the other positions.

The best mattress for each sleep type

In sleep studies, researchers have found that a different type of mattress suits each sleep position better.

  • Stomach sleepers are most comfortable with a medium-firm mattress. Foam is also the material of choice to avoid waking up with any back or neck pain.
  • Back sleepers like firmer mattresses. Because of this sleep posture's natural position, either memory foam or a spring mattress is suitable.
  • Side sleepers have the best sleeping experience with a softer style mattress. Generally, a foam mattress delivers the best sleeping experience.
  • Combination sleepers benefit from a medium-firm mattress. Foam is also a great choice because of its adaptability.

Where can I find a great, affordable mattress (in 2024)?

If you're searching for an affordable mattress that offers a wide range of comfort and pressure relief, we've compiled a list of mattresses for you to consider:

  1. Saatva Mattress - fantastic for all sleep positions, and is rated our Best Mattress of 2024.
  2. Puffy - feels like you're sleeping on a cool cloud (at a good price).
  3. Cocoon - amazing pressure relief at an affordable price.
  4. Ghostbed - beautiful, plush cover w/ aerated latex and healthy spinal alignment.
  5. Winkbeds - 3-stage back relief with free shipping and returns.

Read our short, well-researched 10 Best Mattresses of 2024, here. Our ultimate goal is to help you pick your perfect mattress online, today!

Limited Time Offer - Get $600 Off

Saatva is our top pick for the #1 mattress in 2024! They're a luxury mattress shipped with FREE white-glove delivery & setup (different than regular bed in a box brands put on your doorstep). They have over 50,000 reviews.

Check Price →
Limited Time Offer - Get $600 Off