Snoring In Pregnancy: What Causes It? Is It A Warning Sign Of An Underlying Issue? Prevention Tips

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It is not uncommon for pregnant women to experience many changes in their bodies, such as indigestion, heartburn, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. For some women, pregnancy may also cause persistent snoring [1].

Snoring is very common during pregnancy, even if you have never snored before. It can be very disruptive to your sleep as well as your partner's, so you and your partner might be interested in possible remedies.

Snoring In Pregnancy: What Causes It?

In pregnancy, snoring is a common night-time problem, with moms-to-be three times more likely to begin snoring during the final trimester [2][3].

• It is most likely that you are snoring due to your surging pregnancy hormones. Higher levels of oestrogen and progesterone cause the mucus membranes in your nose to swell, which can result in nasal congestion.
• A woman who gains excessive weight during pregnancy may also experience snoring problems, as it causes extra tissue to develop around her head and neck.
• You may be particularly sensitive to dry air or other circumstances that may cause snoring, such as a recent illness, if you have already irritated nasal passages. Additionally, exposure to smoke or smoking is another possible cause of sleep-disordered breathing and snoring during pregnancy.
• While you may have snored before becoming pregnant, you may notice it more now if you are not sleeping well, or if you are simply more aware of your body during pregnancy.

Does Snoring During Pregnancy Indicate An Underlying Medical Condition?

There is no clear answer to this question. Snoring may be caused by increased weight or hormonal changes in some women. While in other women, it could be a more serious problem [4].

Research has shown that snoring is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including hypertension, pre-term delivery, and gestational diabetes.

Is Snoring During Pregnancy A Sign Of Pre-eclampsia?

In pregnancy, high blood pressure is known as pre-eclampsia and snoring has been shown to be associated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, including pre-eclampsia. Pre-eclampsia usually develops after week 20 of pregnancy [5].

What Is The Relationship Between Snoring And Perinatal Depression?

Studies have shown that snoring during pregnancy is linked to perinatal depression, a form of depression that occurs during pregnancy rather than following delivery, known as postpartum depression [6].

How To Prevent Snoring In Pregnancy?

To soften or prevent snoring in pregnancy, try the following:

• Lie on your side while you sleep.
• By elevating your head a bit with pillows, you will be able to clear your airway.
• Use a humidifier.
• Use nose strips.
• Maintain a healthy diet.
• Avoid smoke at all costs.

On A Final Note...

Although these home remedies may work, you should still discuss your snoring with your physician, as it may be a symptom of another condition that requires treatment.