Snoring during pregnancy: Understanding the impact on sleep and health

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13 May Snoring during pregnancy: Understanding the impact on sleep and health

Posted at 15:24h in Blog by admin


At The Thoracic and Sleep Group QLD (TSGQ), we understand the importance of quality sleep, especially during pregnancy, when changes in the body can impact sleep patterns. Snoring during pregnancy is a common concern for many expectant mothers, but understanding its causes and potential implications is crucial for maternal health and well-being.

Understanding Snoring During Pregnancy

Many pregnant individuals find themselves snoring for the first time or experiencing an increase in snoring frequency and intensity, particularly during the third trimester. This phenomenon is often attributed to hormonal changes, weight gain, and physiological adaptations that occur during pregnancy.

Hormonal Changes and Nasal Congestion

During pregnancy, elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone can lead to nasal congestion, swelling of blood vessels, and increased mucus production in the upper airway. These changes can contribute to narrowing of the nasal passages and throat, making it more difficult to breathe through the nose and increasing the likelihood of snoring.

Weight Gain and Upper Airway Obstruction

Pregnancy-related weight gain can also play a role in snoring. Extra tissue around the head and neck area can exert pressure on the airway, causing it to narrow and resulting in snoring. Additionally, increased blood volume during pregnancy can lead to swelling of the airway tissues, further exacerbating snoring symptoms.

Potential Health Implications

While snoring itself may be harmless for some pregnant individuals, it can also be a sign of underlying health issues that may impact pregnancy outcomes. Research has shown associations between snoring during pregnancy and conditions such as gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes.

Gestational Hypertension and Preeclampsia

Studies have found that maternal snoring during pregnancy, particularly chronic snoring that began before pregnancy, is independently associated with adverse delivery outcomes, including gestational hypertension and preeclampsia. New onset snoring during pregnancy may be particularly concerning, as it could indicate a new risk to maternal health.

Gestational Diabetes

Some research suggests a correlation between snoring during pregnancy and an increase in blood sugar levels known as gestational diabetes. While the exact mechanisms underlying this association are not fully understood, it underscores the importance of monitoring snoring symptoms during pregnancy and discussing them with a healthcare provider.

Seeking Proper Diagnosis and Treatment

If you’re experiencing snoring during pregnancy, it’s essential to discuss your symptoms with your obstetrician or healthcare provider. While snoring may be a common occurrence, it’s essential to rule out underlying sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which can have serious implications for maternal and fetal health.

Conclusion

Snoring during pregnancy is a common phenomenon that can affect sleep quality and overall well-being. While hormonal changes and weight gain contribute to snoring, it’s essential to monitor symptoms and seek medical evaluation if necessary. At TSGQ, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive care for sleep-related issues during pregnancy, ensuring the health and safety of both mother and baby.

References:

  1. Dunietz, G., et al. (2022). Maternal habitual snoring and blood pressure trajectories in pregnancy. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 18(1), 31–38. https://doi.org/10.5664/jcsm.9474
  2. O’Brien, L. M., et al. (2014). Hypertension, Snoring, and Obstructive Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy: A Cohort Study. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 121(13), 1685–1693. https://doi.org/10.1111/1471-0528.12885
  3. O’Brien, L. M., et al. (2013). Habitual snoring and depressive symptoms during pregnancy. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 13, 113. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2393-13-113
  4. Clinical Haematology 1985; 14(3): 601-612. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/4075604
  5. Hytten F. Blood volume changes in normal pregnancy. Rhinitis as a cause of respiratory disorders during pregnancy. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology 2013; 755: 213-220. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-4546-9_27

Written by Manisha Turner, Registered Nurse at TSGQ