Sleep problems during pregnancy

Sleep problems during pregnancy are caused by various factors. For the body of a mother-to-be, the time of 40 weeks of pregnancy is a period of many changes. Trimesters are characterized by different symptoms and causes of sleep problems. Every pregnancy and every woman is different, so on the one hand, moms-to-be complain about insomnia, but on the other hand, there is a very large group of women who suffer from chronic fatigue and excessive daytime sleepiness.

Sleep problems in pregnancy – 1. trimester

At the beginning of pregnancy, many different kinds of discomforts arise that make daily life difficult for pregnant women. Many of them then complain of nausea and vomiting, breast tenderness or frequent urination. In addition, there may be excessive sleepiness and a feeling of constant fatigue during the day. It is also important to keep in mind that as the concentration of progesterone in a pregnant woman’s body increases, the risk of snoring and sleep apnea increases.  

Sleep problems in pregnancy – 2. trimester

For many moms-to-be, 2. trimester is the most pleasant period of pregnancy. Many unpleasant discomforts of the beginning of pregnancy pass then, and the enlarging abdomen does not impede activity as in the final phase of pregnancy. Nevertheless, some pregnant women then complain of sleep problems. This is associated with back pain, gastroesophageal reflux, or feeling the baby’s movements, among other things, for moms-to-be. The need to go to the toilet more often, including at night, is also not insignificant.

Sleep problems in pregnancy – 3. trimester

A growing belly makes it more difficult for moms-to-be to find a suitable and comfortable  position for sleeping. If sleep problems are caused by itchy skin that intensifies at night, be aware of the risk of pregnancy cholestasis, which can have serious complications. In such a situation, you should see a doctor. The end of pregnancy is also a time when many pregnant women are stressed about childbirth and its progress and feel anxious about the upcoming changes in family life. With the anticipation of labor, the mother-to-be’s sleep may be shallower, and premonitory contractions may make it even more difficult.

Ways to deal with sleep problems during pregnancy

Some causes of sleep problems during pregnancy, such as a woman’s growing belly, will not disappear until after delivery. However, before the mother-to-be reaches for pharmacological methods, she should introduce sleep hygiene into her daily routine. This means that naps in the evening and afternoon should be avoided, and efforts should be made to fall asleep and wake up at consistent times. It is also better not to watch TV or browse the phone before bedtime. If the mother-to-be’s sleep is interrupted by nightly visits to the toilet, you can try limiting your fluid intake in the evening.

Pregnant women should avoid taking sleep medications, especially without first consulting a specialist. If necessary, the drug of choice for treating insomnia is zolpidem, diazepam or diphenhydramine. It is important to remember that this treatment should be kept as short as possible, as its uncontrolled prolongation can lead to addiction.

See also:

What are the causes of insomnia during pregnancy? Medications and home remedies for sleepless nights during pregnancy

Bibliography: pharmacotherapy in obstetrics PZWL 2018 ed. G.H. Bręborowicz, M. Dworacka