If your sleep is disturbed, talk to your midwife. She'll be able to suggest ways to prevent it, or at least help you cope better. A change of sleeping position may bring relief. Try lying on your side, with your lower leg bent at the knee to support your tummy. Sleeping with a pillow between your legs may also help.
Simple relaxation techniques can help you go to sleep. Concentrate on breathing gently and rhythmically, and contract and relax each part of your body one at a time. Exercise may also help you sleep better by improving circulation and easing stress.
Loose cotton nightclothes or sleeping in the nude can help avoid overheating. A relaxing bath before you turn in for the night may also prepare you for sleep.

All mums-to-be know sleep will soon be a luxury, so it's important to make the most of it while you can.
Is sleep a thing of the past?
Sleep problems are very common during pregnancy, for all sorts of reasons.
In early and late pregnancy in particular, you may need to get up in the night to wee.
As you get bigger, finding a comfortable position to sleep can be difficult.
Your body's 'thermostat' can seem permanently set to 'over-hot'. You may find it too hot for bedcovers, but then wake up feeling cold.
Backache can keep you awake.
You may have 'restless legs syndrome'. This isn't uncommon and is exactly what it sounds like: jerking or twitching of the legs, particularly when lying down.
Leg cramps, which are a common complaint.
You may feel itchy.

Scans and tests
As part of your antenatal care, you'll be offered a range of checks, tests and assessments to monitor you and your developing baby.
In the beginning
Your first antenatal check-up is likely to be the longest. It will take place between the eighth and 12th week of pregnancy, and you'll be examined by a doctor and a midwife. You may also be offered the chance to see your baby for the first time with an ultrasound scan.
If you're working, you're legally entitled to paid time off for your antenatal care. Here we tell you what the professionals are looking for, what the implications might be if a problem shows up and where and how you'll get the results.
How scans work
An ultrasound scan uses high-frequency soundwaves, which bounce off solid objects. This creates a screen image of your uterus and nearby organs, as well as your baby, his organs and the placenta.
Scans can be two-dimensional, three-dimensional (for better clarity, to allow easier diagnosis of anomalies such as a cleft palate) or four-dimensional (available privately).

Baby carrier or sling - this allows you to carry your baby and keep your hands free, making activities such as using public transport easier.
Baby bath - your baby can use the big bath, share with you, or you could use a new washing-up bowl at the very beginning.
Toys - although not really necessary at first, they're nice for you and your baby to enjoy together.
Changing gear - you might want a changing mat or baby dresser with a changing top.

How to cut the cost
Buy second-hand baby gear. Look in your local paper, shop windows, charity shops. Family and friends may offer you hand-me-downs.
Keep in mind that some items are only guaranteed from new for a certain length of time, so there may be safety implications if they're second-hand.
Check equipment for stability and safety, and only buy car seats if they're clearly unused - if they've been involved in an accident you may not be able to tell, but their fixtures could be unsafe and the inside cracked.