Why Your Sleep May Feel Different—and What to Do About It
If you’ve found yourself waking up more tired than rested, snoring loudly, or gasping for air at night, it might not just be pregnancy insomnia. Sleep apnea affects more pregnant women than you might think—especially in the third trimester. Let’s talk about why this happens and how to keep you and your baby safe and well-rested.
👉 Want to learn more about managing sleep apnea while expecting? Read the full article here
Ask Dr. Stan
1. What is sleep apnea, and why does it matter during pregnancy?
Sleep apnea is a condition where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts while you sleep. In pregnancy, it’s especially concerning because it can lead to complications like high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and even preterm birth if left untreated. The good news? It’s manageable—and identifying it early makes a big difference for both you and your baby.
2. I’ve started snoring more. Is that normal, or should I be concerned?
Snoring can be a common pregnancy symptom due to nasal congestion and weight changes, but if it’s loud, frequent, or accompanied by gasping, pauses in breathing, or daytime fatigue, it’s worth bringing up with your provider. These can be signs of obstructive sleep apnea, which deserves a closer look.
3. Why does sleep apnea often worsen later in pregnancy?
As your body grows to support your baby, it holds more fluid and gains weight—especially around the neck and abdomen. This can narrow the airways and make it harder to breathe during sleep. Hormonal changes may also contribute by relaxing the muscles that keep the airway open.
4. How can I tell the difference between normal pregnancy fatigue and sleep apnea?
Pregnancy fatigue is common, but if you’re waking up feeling unrefreshed after a full night’s sleep, falling asleep during the day, or struggling to concentrate, it might be more than typical tiredness. If these symptoms are combined with snoring or interrupted sleep, let your provider know—they may recommend a sleep evaluation.
5. How is sleep apnea diagnosed during pregnancy?
Sleep apnea is usually diagnosed through a sleep study, either at home or in a sleep lab. These tests track your breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and more while you sleep. They’re safe during pregnancy and can provide essential insights to guide your treatment plan.
6. Is CPAP therapy safe to use while pregnant?
Absolutely. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is a safe and effective way to treat sleep apnea during pregnancy. It delivers a steady stream of air to keep your airway open at night, helping you sleep better and lowering your risk for pregnancy-related complications.
7. Are there any non-CPAP ways to manage sleep apnea symptoms during pregnancy?
Yes! Some lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms. Try sleeping on your side (especially the left), maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol or sedatives, and sticking to a consistent bedtime. In mild cases, these adjustments may be enough, but moderate to severe cases often benefit from CPAP.
8. Can sleep apnea affect my baby’s health too?
Yes. Untreated sleep apnea has been linked to lower birth weights, preterm delivery, and increased chances of NICU stays. It’s also associated with reduced oxygen levels during sleep, which can impact how your baby grows and develops. Managing sleep apnea can help give your little one the healthiest start possible.
9. What’s the connection between sleep apnea and high blood pressure or preeclampsia?
Sleep apnea can raise your blood pressure and stress levels, which increases your risk for pregnancy conditions like gestational hypertension and preeclampsia. These can affect both you and your baby, so if you have high blood pressure or are at risk, checking for sleep apnea is an important step.
10. I’m already in my third trimester—is it too late to get help?
Not at all. It’s never too late to improve your sleep and overall health. Even in the final weeks, identifying and managing sleep apnea can make labor safer and help with recovery postpartum. If you’re experiencing symptoms, bring them up with your provider—they’ll guide you on the next steps.
