It might surprise you to learn that snoring during pregnancy is quite common. According to SleepFoundation.org, between 14% and 53% of pregnant individuals experience snoring, with the likelihood increasing as the pregnancy progresses. While it often tends to occur in the third trimester, snoring can develop at any stage of pregnancy.
Reasons why pregnancy is making you snore
1) Swollen nasal passages
During pregnancy, your blood volume increases, and so do estrogen levels. Both factors can lead to swollen nasal passages and pregnancy snoring. This pregnancy-related congestion can cause you to breathe through your mouth, leading to snoring.
2) Weight gain
Gaining weight during pregnancy is normal and natural, but it can lead to extra fatty tissue building up around the neck and throat. This can narrow your airway and make it harder to breathe freely.
3) Colds and allergies
Congestion from other causes, like a cold or the flu, can also lead to snoring in pregnancy. Nasal irritation often increases at night when snoring is most likely to be a problem.
4) Sleep apnea
Loud snoring can be a symptom of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). People suffering with OSA experience a blockage in the airway that causes them to briefly stop breathing in their sleep. This can happen hundreds of times a night! Look out for these warning signs: gasping or choking sounds, loud snoring, and daytime sleepiness – (over and above pregnancy-related fatigue). If you’re not sure about your symptoms, please see a health care provider.
A healthier lifestyle in pregnancy
It’s important for every aspect of your pregnancy to include healthy lifestyle choices, such as avoiding alcohol and tobacco. These are not only central to a healthier pregnancy but can also affect snoring and poor sleep – two things you don’t want when you’re expecting. Healthy weight gain is also important. If you’re not sure how much you should be gaining during your pregnancy, speak with your healthcare provider, and they can give you the best advice for your very individual pregnancy.
If you suspect you have untreated sleep apnea, or you’re worried about your snoring, visit your doctor as soon as possible. Loud snoring can lead to high blood pressure, and this can put both you and your unborn baby at risk.