Waking Up for Two: The Effects of Sleep Apnea on Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a miracle of life for a healthy couple looking to start a family. However, there are sometimes complications that arise as the mother-to-be sees an increase in hormone levels across her body. One of the many effects of these shifting hormones is sleep disruption, especially sleep apnea. But how does this condition affect mothers and babies?

Keep reading to learn more about the condition and how your dentist may be able to help.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. It can disrupt the sleep cycle, leading to fragmented and poor-quality sleep. Common signs include loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, and daytime fatigue.

What Causes Sleep Apnea in Pregnant Women?

Hormonal changes, especially in levels of progesterone which relaxes the airway during sleep, can lead to sleep apnea and other conditions. These changing hormones can also cause weight gain, worsening the symptoms. The baby itself can also press against the mother’s lungs while they’re asleep, further restricting airflow.

What Are the Effects of Sleep Apnea?

For expectant mothers, the effects of sleep apnea can extend beyond the night. Sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia – conditions that can pose significant risks during pregnancy.

Gestational Diabetes

Sleep apnea has been linked to an increased risk of gestational diabetes, a condition where high blood sugar levels develop during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes poses risks for both the mother and the baby, including an elevated likelihood of cesarean delivery.

Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia, a potentially serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs, is more prevalent in women with sleep apnea. Proper prenatal care is important for monitoring and managing this condition to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby.

Oxygen Issues

Intermittent pauses in breathing due to sleep apnea can lead to oxygen deprivation for mother and child. This can inhibit fetal development as adequate oxygen is necessary for the growth of the developing baby. Oxygen deprivation may cause complications such as low birth weight.

How to Manage Sleep Apnea

Managing sleep apnea during pregnancy may involve lifestyle modifications, positional therapy, or the use of a CPAP device. If your dentist has training in sleep medicine, they can help you properly manage your sleep apnea. This can mitigate risks and lead to a healthier pregnancy.

So, if you believe you may be experiencing sleep apnea due to loud snoring or disrupted sleep, talk to your dentist. The sooner you have your condition diagnosed and treated, the sooner you can get back to having a restful sleep while awaiting the birth of your baby.

About the Author

Dr. Bernard L. Greenbaum is a skilled and highly knowledgeable dental sleep specialist with a doctorate from the Georgetown University School of Dentistry. He has spent the last 25 years treating his patients and learning from some of the best dentists in the nation. He has achieved Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, a very prestigious honor that few dentists across North America have accomplished. Call (301) 530-3600 to schedule a sleep apnea consultation at Bethesda Center for Dental Sleep Medicine & TMJ Therapy or visit the website to discover other services.