Pregnancy is supposed to be a joyful time in a woman’s life; however, when suffering from sleep apnea, the journey can become increasingly difficult. Between the changing hormones, unique cravings, and exhaustion – all of which are normal while pregnant – being unable to get adequate rest can leave a woman fearful of how it may be impacting her baby. Read on to discover if there are heightened risks associated with sleep apnea and what you can do to better protect you and your child.
What Can Cause Sleep Apnea While Pregnant?
One of the most common reasons for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to develop during pregnancy is hormonal changes. The increase in mucus production within the nasal passage can lead many women to become congested. As a result, snoring and OSA can occur.
When you add the fact that women have higher levels of progesterone during pregnancy, their muscles can become more easily relaxed, leading to an increased risk of airway obstruction while asleep.
Other common reasons sleep apnea can develop during this time include weight gain and added pressure placed on the lungs because of the growth of the uterus and baby.
How Can Pregnancy Be Negatively Impacted by Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
When dealing with OSA while pregnant, some serious risks can develop. Not only does it affect a woman’s ability to get adequate sleep during these nine months, but it also:
- Increases the chances of developing gestational hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Increases the risk of developing gestational diabetes
- Can cause prolonged labor
- Can result in preeclampsia
- Can lead to an unplanned cesarian
- Compromises the baby’s oxygen levels because of a reduced blood flow to the placenta
- Can cause fetal growth restriction
- Can cause the baby’s heart rate to drop
- Can lead to preterm birth and a reduction of the growth hormone
What Can a Sleep Dentist Do to Help?
If a woman discovers that she is suffering from an inability to sleep and wakes multiple times each time because of ceased breathing, it’s important that she seek the help of a trusted sleep dentist.
Trained and experienced in providing safe and effective sleep apnea solutions, they can recommend appropriate treatment after a formal diagnosis is provided. While CPAP therapy is a possibility, it’s not uncommon for many professionals to recommend an oral appliance.
Easy to use for pregnant women, the device is custom-made to fit comfortably while allowing the airway to remain open while asleep. The appliance gently shifts the jaw forward so throat muscles do not collapse onto the airway and create an obstruction.
By combining oral appliance treatment with close monitoring from a local physician, a woman can begin to experience a more positive pregnancy journey that ensures she and her baby remain healthy through delivery.
About the Practice
At Star Sleep & Wellness in Denton, our sleep dentists and specialists are here to treat all individuals who struggle to get the rest they need. When helping someone who is pregnant, we will closely examine the symptoms they experience and recommend a solution that aligns with their needs. We will also encourage proper nutrition and wellness to create a more cohesive plan that benefits both the mother and baby. If you are concerned that you might have sleep apnea and are currently pregnant, contact us to find out how we can help.