For many women, pregnancy can be an exciting time that comes with months of planning, preparation, and embracing the physical changes that occur. However, others may find these nine months to be challenging, especially if sleep apnea is an issue. It’s no secret that the latter stages of pregnancy can be uncomfortable, but this feeling can be exacerbated when essential rest remains out of reach. Read on to learn how this common sleep condition can negatively affect your growing baby and what you can do to lower the risk of complications along the way.
Sleep Apnea: What Problems Can Occur in Pregnancy?
Sleep apnea is a condition that inhibits a person’s ability to breathe freely throughout the night because of an obstruction that occurs in the airway.
Since this problem can happen hundreds of times each night, one of the common side effects is low blood oxygen levels. When your body is unable to obtain the proper amount of oxygen because of the lack of air you receive while asleep, it can lead to an increased risk of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems. All of these are potentially harmful to an unborn baby.
If you suffer from sleep apnea and are pregnant, the potential for gestational diabetes, hypertension, pre-eclampsia, preterm or prolonged labor, or an unplanned cesarean increase. As it pertains to your baby, they may experience low oxygen levels because of the lack of blood flow to the placenta, and their heart rate can drop. It’s also possible for your baby to have low birth weight and developmental issues.
What Can You Do to Reduce the Risks?
Since no expecting mother wants to put her baby at risk, sleep dentists are available who can diagnose and treat sleep apnea during and after pregnancy.
After performing a specialized study that analyzes your heart rate, breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and more, a formal diagnosis can be provided, which will allow a professional to administer the most effective form of treatment.
Generally, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is the most common; however, many experts are turning to custom oral appliances as a more user-friendly and low-maintenance form of treatment.
These unique devices are worn inside the mouth while you sleep, pushing your jaw slightly forward so that your throat muscles or tongue do not collapse onto your airway. This allows you to breathe freely without fear of obstruction. Also, the customization provided ensures your oral appliance is comfortable and easy to wear.
Seeking help for your sleep apnea is the most important thing you can do for yourself and your baby. Being able to breathe without interruption and get essential rest will not only improve your life and that of your little one but also help you better prepare for what lies ahead after your baby arrives.About the Practice
Star Sleep & Wellness in Dallas is a specialized practice devoted to helping individuals who desire better sleep while also being able to breathe freely. Our team of sleep experts work together to make sure that your nightly rest comes with positive results. If you are pregnant and are worried that your sleep apnea may affect your baby, contact us to learn what solutions we provide that will help you take better care of yourself, your body, and your little one.