A sleep study, known as polysomnography, can be a safe and valuable diagnostic tool for expectant mothers experiencing sleep disturbances. Pregnancy brings constant physical and physiological changes, which can lead to the development or worsening of sleep disorders. Since these conditions can affect both maternal and fetal health, a doctor may recommend a sleep study to identify the underlying cause of the issues. This evaluation allows for an accurate diagnosis and a subsequent management plan.
Common Sleep Issues During Pregnancy
Sleep quality often worsens during pregnancy, with the incidence of several sleep disorders increasing as the pregnancy progresses. One common issue is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Hormonal shifts and weight gain can narrow the upper airway, contributing to the development or exacerbation of OSA. Even mild cases of OSA have been associated with an increased risk for gestational diabetes and pregnancy-related hypertension.
Another frequent complaint is restless legs syndrome (RLS), characterized by an overwhelming urge to move the legs, particularly at night. This can make falling asleep and staying asleep difficult. Insomnia, the general inability to sleep, also becomes more common, driven by physical discomfort, hormonal fluctuations, and anxiety. Untreated, these sleep disturbances can lead to significant daytime fatigue and have been linked to adverse outcomes such as preterm birth and an increased likelihood of needing a cesarean section.
The Sleep Study Process for Expectant Mothers
When a sleep study is recommended, it can be performed either in a specialized sleep center or, in some cases, at home. The in-lab study, polysomnography, is the most comprehensive test. It involves monitoring various bodily functions overnight, including brain waves, heart rate, breathing patterns, blood oxygen levels, and leg movements. This is achieved by placing small, non-invasive sensors on the head, face, chest, and legs.
For pregnant individuals, specific adjustments are made to ensure comfort and safety. A primary consideration is sleeping position. Expectant mothers are typically encouraged to sleep on their side to avoid compression of the vena cava, a major vein that returns blood to the heart. Back-sleeping can worsen breathing disruptions, and technicians are trained to help find a comfortable and safe sleeping posture throughout the night.
The equipment used poses no risk to the developing baby. The sensors only record physiological signals and do not emit any electricity or radiation. At-home sleep apnea tests are a more streamlined option, focusing primarily on breathing, heart rate, and oxygen levels to diagnose or rule out OSA. While less comprehensive than in-lab studies, they offer a convenient and accurate way to identify many cases of sleep-disordered breathing during pregnancy.
Treatments Following a Sleep Study Diagnosis
A diagnosis from a sleep study allows for safe and effective treatments that improve sleep quality and mitigate health risks. For OSA, the most common and recommended treatment during pregnancy is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy. A CPAP machine works by delivering a steady stream of pressurized air through a mask, keeping the upper airway open and preventing breathing pauses during sleep.
CPAP is considered safe for both mother and baby, and its use can lead to immediate symptom relief. Because the severity of sleep apnea can fluctuate throughout pregnancy, doctors may recommend an automatically adjusting CPAP device that can adapt to changing needs. Small studies indicate that CPAP therapy may also help improve conditions like pregnancy-induced hypertension.
For other conditions like RLS, treatment focuses on non-pharmacological approaches and lifestyle adjustments. These may include regular exercise, massage, and ensuring adequate iron and folate levels, as deficiencies can contribute to RLS symptoms. Management strategies are chosen on a case-by-case basis, balancing treatment benefits against potential risks to ensure the health of both the expectant mother and her baby.