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Ask A Midwife

Q. I am 35 weeks pregnant, and have a BAD case of insomnia!!!! Is there anything I can try??? I've tried reading, drinking warm milk.... I'm sure it's because I'm anxious about the baby, but I'm turning into a very grouchy zombie. Please help!!!

A. There is a wonderful product to be found at the health food store called ALFALCO by a company named Boericke & Tafel, and it costs approx $10. It is a homeopathic tonic-syrup that is indicated for persistent insomnia or persistent fatigue. It works to balance out your system. Try a spoonful about an hour before bedtime. It is safe to use in pregnancy. You can also try Celestial Seasonings SLEEPYTIME TEA, and make a double-strong batch (predominantly chamomile tea) an hour before bedtime. Also, motherwort tincture & skullcap tincture & passionflower tincture are all good emotional balancers and aid in sleeping well. All these can be found at a health food store. Good wishes for your baby and you!!!

Vickii Gervais is a Certified Professional Midwife who has attended over 600 births.