Loud Snoring During Pregnancy
Lack of sleep and an irregular sleep pattern are both known causes of snoring. Women who do not normally suffer from loud snoring may find themselves suddenly doing so during pregnancy. Most pregnant women will suffer from either or both of these causes during pregnancy, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy.
During the third trimester, the frequent trips to the toilet and the limited sleeping positions decrease the amount of deep sleep a pregnant woman needs.
Studies show that 30% of pregnant women find themselves snoring during pregnancy. Pregnancy itself may result in snoring. As a mother-to-be’s abdomen grows, the uterus presses on the diaphragm making it difficult to breath. This is particularly the case during sleep and will cause snoring. Of course nasal congestion is also a prime contributor.
The Danger of Snoring
Although usually dismissed as an annoyance, loud snoring can be dangerous, especially in pregnant women. It may be a warning sign that there is a larger problem at hand. If her loud snoring is coupled with sleepiness during the daytime, headaches and swollen legs, she could be suffering from hypertension, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction.
Snoring can also starve the fetus of oxygen. Snoring during pregnancy could result in the growth retardation of the fetus, or worse, maternal death. Snoring is a real danger to both mother and child during pregnancy. Pregnant women who discover they are snoring are advised to tell their doctor. Not only for the baby’s safety, but her own, as well.
Posted by By: Admin | 
2008/01/16 | Woman Health | Trackback | Comments [RSS 2.0]
