Updates throughout to text, information, guidelines, formatting and sources, and new medical review.
Whats less common, however, is a sleep condition called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
This breathing-related disorder can occur during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
What causes obstructive sleep apnea?
Temporary pauses in breathing, called apneas, can last anywhere from 10 seconds to a minute or more.
Read This Next
Obstructive sleep apnea is actually one of three types of apnea.
Who is at risk of obstructive sleep apnea?
This reduced capacity contributes to an increased collapsibility of your airways.
Extra tissue in your neck can block your airway and make it harder to breathe at night.
Moms-to-be withgestational diabetesare also at higher risk.
What are the risks of obstructive sleep apnea during pregnancy?
Over time, sleep apnea lowers your blood oxygen levels.
The less air you breathe in each night, the less oxygen your body gets.
What are the warning signs of sleep apnea?
Sleepiness and moodiness during the day are signs of sleep apnea.
Your practitioner may then refer you to a sleep specialist for another test called a polysomnography.
How is obstructive sleep apnea treated?
Treatment for sleep apnea usually starts with lifestyle changes.
Your doctor may advise you not to sleep on your back.
You may be able to arrange pillows or apregnancy pillowto support your back.
you’re free to also try adhesive breathing strips, which open up your nostrils.
If youre overweight or obese, work with your health care provider on a weight management plan.
Being at a healthy weight can really help with sleep apnea.
Does sleep apnea go away after pregnancy?
Yes, there is some evidence that OSA in pregnancy will improve once you deliver.
Obstructive sleep apnea doesnt have to ruin the quality sleep you need during pregnancy.
