

Several studies have shown that symptoms usually go away after the baby is born, although some people may still experience RLS afterwards. The symptoms of RLS can be distressing and frustrating, impairing the person’s ability to rest or sleep. People with RLS feel uncomfortable sensations in their legs, usually when lying down, that can only be relieved by moving the legs. Restless Legs Syndrome: Up to 30% of people experience restless legs syndrome (RLS) during pregnancy.This sleep-related breathing disorder is associated with multiple partial or complete pauses in breathing during sleep, and it can cause sleepiness and fatigue during the day. Obstructive sleep apnea may also develop during pregnancy. Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea: By the third trimester, up to 45% of pregnant people experience loud snoring as a result of fluctuating hormone levels and added pressure on the diaphragm.Fortunately, pregnancy-related heartburn typically goes away on its own soon after childbirth. Symptoms typically worsen at night, which may make it difficult to fall asleep. Heartburn: Heartburn is common during pregnancy, affecting between 17% and 45% of pregnant people.For some, increased anxiety during pregnancy contributes to insomnia. Insomnia: One study found that over 90% of pregnant people woke up frequently during the night, and nearly 70% reported taking longer than 30 minutes to fall asleep.Sleep problems can take many different forms during pregnancy. Common Sleep Disorders & Issues During Pregnancy Obstructive sleep apnea may also increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea during pregnancy have both been linked to an increased risk of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and unplanned C-section. Sleep deprivation also causes a stress response in the body that may cause an increased risk of postpartum depression and premature birth. Research suggests that those who receive less than six hours of sleep per night near the end of their pregnancy are more likely to require a cesarean delivery (C-section) or experience longer labor times. Poor sleep during pregnancy can lead to complications for both the parent and child. Quality sleep supports healthy development of the fetus and helps the expecting parent prepare for the birth. People may also notice certain sleep issues during the postpartum period after their baby arrives. Worries about the baby’s health can also keep expecting parents up at night.Įach trimester is marked by general trends in sleep issues, but overall sleep quality tends to be worse at the end of the third trimester. On the psychological side, pregnant people are more likely to experience distressing dreams and nightmares that interrupt sleep.


Increased nighttime urination and heartburn can also disrupt sleep. Shifting hormone levels contribute to nausea, daytime sleepiness, and snoring at night. The growing uterus displaces the diaphragm and affects breathing, while pain and pressure in the lower back can make it tough to find a comfortable sleep position. Body weight increases by around 20% during pregnancy. Pregnancy brings a host of physical and psychological changes that can affect sleep.

We’ll explore the many ways in which pregnancy impacts sleep, and share tips for sleeping better while pregnant.
First trimester insomnia help how to#
Understanding how pregnancy affects sleep during each trimester and how to work around these issues is key to getting enough rest while pregnant, though postpartum sleep issues are also somewhat common. There are measures people can take to sleep better and feel less tired during pregnancy. Additionally, pregnant people are susceptible to nausea, heartburn, leg cramps, and other types of discomfort while they sleep. More than half report insomnia symptoms during pregnancy, and a significant percentage experience symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing and restless legs syndrome. Studies suggest that up to 92% of pregnant people experience poor sleep quality at some point during their pregnancy. Sleep issues are common during pregnancy.
