Sleep disturbances affect most of the pregnant women. About 79% of pregnant women experience sleep disorders. It can pose risks like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, convulsions, premature birth, and prolonged labor. Various factors contribute to these disturbances, including hormonal changes, anxiety, acid reflux, increased bladder activity, snoring, sleep apnea, leg cramps, back pain, heightened baby movements, and the expanding belly.
Apart from all this, stress and anxiety can also impact your ability to fall asleep. Lack of sleep can also increase your postpartum depression. Untreated sleep disturbances during pregnancy can have long-term effects on maternal health and may increase the risk of chronic sleep problems even after childbirth.
Here are some tips on how to solve sleep disturbances during pregnancy:
Stick to a consistent sleep schedule to regulate your body’s clock.
Reserve your bed for sleep to avoid confusing your body.
Limit caffeine and chocolate, especially in the afternoon.
Manage anxiety through meditation and exercise.
Enjoy warm baths and massages to relax, and more.
Remember, sleep is crucial during pregnancy. If these tips don’t work, consult your obstetrician for further advice or supplements.
(The author, Dr. Rajeev Agarwal, is the IVF specialist at Renew Healthcare.)
