Pregnancy is a time of immense change and growth, both physically and mentally. Women go through a plethora of emotions, and every single one of them is completely justified. Yet some women also have to deal with a painful and sometimes even life-threatening condition on top of their pregnancy, known as sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea is a disorder that is characterized by an interruption in a person’s breathing while they are sleeping. The intermittent wave-like movements in the airway are the main culprit. This can lead to an increase in the risk of certain serious medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart failure. During pregnancy, sleep apnea can also pose an increased risk to both the mother and her child.
Risks of Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy
According to a study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) in 2017, sleep apnea can be a big problem for both the pregnancy and the newborn child. The study indicated that women with sleep apnea were more likely to have high blood pressure during their pregnancy, which can significantly increase the risk of preterm birth and cesarean delivery.
Sleep apnea is also associated with a higher risk of fetal growth restriction. This is in part due to the fact that oxygen deprivation during sleep can cause a decrease in blood oxygen levels, leading to a decrease in the amount of oxygen delivered to the developing baby. This can lead to a decrease in fetal growth and development.
Diagnosing Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy
The first step when diagnosing sleep apnea is recognizing the symptoms. Symptoms of sleep apnea – such as snoring, stopping breathing during sleep, headaches, and daytime fatigue or sleepiness – are often dismissed as symptoms pregnancy by many people, which means that many women may go untreated.
Women who are experiencing recurrent symptoms of sleep apnea should speak with their healthcare provider as soon as possible to receive a proper diagnosis. Healthcare providers can utilize sleep studies – in which patients are monitored while they sleep – to diagnose sleep apnea in pregnant women. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment may also be necessary.
Treating Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy
There are a few different treatment options available for women with sleep apnea during their pregnancy. The most common treatment method is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. This machine uses a mask that is placed over the nose while sleeping, and delivers a continuous steady flow of air to help prevent the airway from collapsing during sleep. The machine is safe for use during pregnancy and is generally well-tolerated.
Other treatment options that may be recommended by a healthcare provider includemaking behavioral changes such as losing weight, avoiding allergens that can cause nasal congestion, and sleeping on your side rather than on your back (a position that can make symptoms of sleep apnea worse). Some women may also benefit from the use of oral appliances or surgical intervention.
Conclusion
Sleep apnea can be a dangerous condition for pregnant women and their babiesif left untreated. It is important that women experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea speak with their healthcare provider as soon as possible to receive a proper diagnosis and begin treatment. Lifestyle modifications, such as losing weight and sleeping on your side, can also be beneficial. With proper treatment and management, women with sleep apnea can have a healthy and safe pregnancy.