Sleep during pregnancy

During pregnancy, women experience a number of physical and psychological transformations. Sleep disorders like insomnia, restless legs and obstructive apnea are fairly common during pregnancy. Insomnia may be caused by undesired or unexpected pregnancies, among other causes.  Restless legs syndrome may happen due to relative hemodilution (a decrease in relative iron levels during pregnancy). Sleep apnea may result from the tightening of upper airways (accumulated liquid) or in association with other pregnancy-related conditions. Arterial hypertension during pregnancy, for example, may be associated with apnea. Snoring and apnea during pregnancy can lead to unfavorable complications for the fetus and newborn.

Sleep complaints that appear or increase during pregnancy must be shared with your prenatal doctor. It will not always be possible to use medication for insomnia, but different interventions, like cognitive-behavioral therapy and meditation, can help. Iron supplements can help control restless legs. In case of snoring or sleep apnea, go to a sleep doctor for guidance on whether or not to use CPAP during pregnancy to protect the fetus.