• Insomnia

A Comprehensive Guide To Managing Pregnancy Insomnia

Medically reviewed and edited by Dr. Banita Sehgal

Pregnancy is a transformative and joyous phase of life that often comes with its share of challenges.

One common problem that many expectant mothers face is pregnancy insomnia — a condition characterized by disrupted sleep patterns.

There are many factors that contribute to pregnancy insomnia and reduce the quality of your rest. However, there are a number of things you can do to manage this condition.

Understanding Pregnancy Insomnia

Pregnancy insomnia is a common disorder that refers to the difficulty or inability to sleep while expecting a baby.

Around 80% of expectant mothers will experience this type of insomnia, which results in less deep sleep and frequent waking up during the night.

You may start to experience sleeping problems during early pregnancy — typically the first trimester — when hormone levels start to change.

Severe sleeping difficulties become more common during the third trimester as the body keeps adjusting to the growing fetus.

Pregnancy insomnia can have a significant impact on a mother’s physical and emotional well-being because they lack adequate rest.

Expectant mothers experience increased fatigue, low energy levels, and difficulties maintaining the physical demands of pregnancy. Insomnia may also impact the immune system and increase the risk of complications.

Emotionally, sleep deprivation can lead to mood disturbances, irritability, and heightened stress levels. It may also affect the ability to cope with the challenges of being pregnant.

How long does pregnancy insomnia last?

The duration of pregnancy insomnia will vary from person to person. For some, having trouble sleeping will occur randomly throughout the pregnancy.

Others may experience insomnia consistently for an extended period of time — usually during the first and third trimesters.

Additional factors, like overall health and sleep hygiene, may also contribute to the duration and severity of pregnancy insomnia.

If your insomnia significantly affects your well being and daily life, speak to a healthcare provider. They will be able to offer personalized advice, evaluate underlying factors, and provide appropriate management strategies.

Causes and Contributing Factors of Pregnancy Insomnia

There are a number of elements that contribute to insomnia during pregnancy, including hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and emotional factors.

Hormonal changes

Change in hormones often plays the most significant role in disrupting sleeping patterns during pregnancy.

This is largely due to elevated levels of progesterone — a hormone essential for maintaining pregnancy. Progesterone has a sedative effect that can make you feel drowsy. However, progesterone can also wake you up frequently during the night and cause difficulties falling and staying asleep.

Fluctuations in estrogen and cortisol levels may further influence sleep quality, leading to insomnia.

Physical discomfort

Physical discomfort can also cause sleep disturbances during pregnancy.

The growing size of the abdomen puts pressure on the bladder, causing an increased need to urinate, which wakes you up.

Back pain that develops due to the extra weight can make finding a comfortable sleeping position challenging and impact the quality of your rest.

Heartburn can also disrupt sleep. This usually occurs because of hormonal changes and added pressure on the digestive system.

Pregnant women may also experience restless legs syndrome — a series of uncomfortable leg cramps accompanied by an irresistible urge to move them — which can interfere with sleep.

Emotional factors

Emotional factors like anxiety and anticipating the arrival of the baby can impact sleep quality during pregnancy.

Worrying about the health of the baby, upcoming childbirth, and the responsibilities of motherhood can cause racing thoughts that may cause difficulty sleeping.

Hormonal fluctuations can also trigger mood swings and emotional changes, which may contribute to sleep problems and disturbances.

Can Pregnancy Insomnia Cause Any Complications?

While pregnancy insomnia isn’t considered a serious medical condition, it can contribute to other issues that can affect the well-being of the mother and baby.

Prolonged sleep deprivation can have physical and emotional consequences that may make it difficult to cope with pregnancy. It may also increase stress levels.

Pregnancy insomnia can affect the overall quality of your life and may increase the risk of developing mood disorders like postpartum depression.

Not getting enough sleep can also have an indirect impact on the developing baby. Disrupted sleeping patterns can damage the mother’s immune system and increase the risk of:

• Gestational hypertension

• Preterm labor

• Abnormal fetal development

It’s important to note that although lack of sleep may increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, more research is needed to fully understand its impact.

Can Pregnancy Insomnia Be Treated?

When experiencing pregnancy insomnia, there are several approaches that can be taken to improve sleep quality and find relief.

Improve your bedtime routine

Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can signal to your body that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Try including activities like:

• Taking a warm bath

• Practicing relaxation exercises

• Listening to calming music

• Reading a book

Creating a relaxing environment in your bedroom — for example, by dimming the lights and keeping the room cool and quiet — can also promote better sleep.

Follow a healthy diet and exercise plan

Maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity during pregnancy may help you improve the quality of your sleep.

Avoiding heavy meals close to bedtime and limiting caffeine intake can help prevent sleep disruptions.

Engaging in pregnancy-safe exercises can also help reduce physical discomfort, improve overall well being, and promote better sleep.

Use relaxation techniques

Incorporating relaxation techniques into your daily routine can help reduce stress and anxiety — two common contributors to pregnancy insomnia.

Techniques that can help calm the mind and prepare the body for sleep include:

• Deep breathing exercises

• Meditation

• Guided visualizations

• Prenatal yoga

Use sleeping aids

In some cases, your doctor may recommend pregnancy-safe medication to help you manage insomnia.

These medications can alleviate factors causing discomfort and impacting your rest — such as pain or stress — to promote a good night’s sleep.

Avoid late-night snacks

Eating rich or spicy foods close to bedtime can contribute to heartburn and discomfort, which may make it harder to fall asleep.

It’s recommended to have dinner a few hours before bedtime and opt for lighter, nutritious snacks if needed. This can help prevent indigestion and promote better sleep quality.

You should also try to limit your fluid intake before bed to reduce the frequent need to urinate and nighttime trips to the bathroom.

Using Natural Remedies for Better Sleep During Pregnancy

In addition to making lifestyle changes — like creating a better sleep routine — you may also be able to use natural remedies to improve your nighttime rest.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy involves using essential oils to promote relaxation and better sleep.

Lavender oil, in particular, is known for its calming properties. It can be diffused in the bedroom or added to a warm bath before you go to sleep.

Before using essential oils, make sure that they are safe to use during pregnancy and follow the proper dilution guidelines.

Drinking herbal tea

Certain herbal teas — such as chamomile, lemon balm, or passionflower — have soothing properties that can promote relaxation and improve sleep.

It’s important to note that some herbs may have contraindications or adverse effects. Speak to your doctor or a qualified herbalist to determine which teas are suitable for you during pregnancy.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to improve balance and well being.

It has been proven to be effective in managing pregnancy-related symptoms, including sleep disturbances.

Use magnesium supplements

Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in relaxation and sleep. Taking a magnesium supplement under the guidance of a medical professional may help improve sleep quality.

It’s important to discuss the appropriate dosage and potential interactions with other medications or supplements.

How Do You Prevent Pregnancy Insomnia?

Although pregnancy insomnia can’t always be prevented, making lifestyle changes and incorporating natural remedies can help alleviate symptoms.

These include:

• Creating a comfortable sleeping environment

• Establishing a consistent sleep schedule

• Engaging in regular pregnancy-safe exercises

• Limiting caffeine

• Following a healthy diet

You can also take steps to manage your stress and anxiety to reduce racing thoughts and promote better sleep quality.

How Should You Prioritize Emotional Support and Self-Care?

Emotional support and self-care are essential components for expectant mothers dealing with pregnancy insomnia. Seeking emotional support from your partner, family, and friends can provide a valuable outlet for expressing concerns, fears, and anxieties.

Sharing your experiences and feelings with loved ones may also help alleviate stress which can have an indirect effect on your sleep quality.

The importance of taking time for self-care activities is also essential during this time. Self-care not only contributes to stress reduction but also promotes overall well being, positively impacting sleep quality and emotional health during pregnancy.

Doing relaxation exercises, treating yourself to prenatal massages, or indulging in hobbies you enjoy can provide an essential break from the demands of pregnancy.

This is also great for fostering a positive mindset and helping you feel calmer, which may improve your nighttime rest.

When Should You See a Doctor About Pregnancy Insomnia?

If you are experiencing pregnancy insomnia, it’s generally recommended to speak to your doctor about the best way to manage your symptoms.

You should also make an appointment with your doctor if your:

• Symptoms are persistent and severe

• Lack of sleep has a significant impact on your daily activities

• Insomnia is affecting your mental health

If you are wondering about the safety of sleep aids or have any concerns about your baby, speak to your healthcare provider for guidance.

They will support and advise you, ensuring that you are able to manage pregnancy insomnia safely.

Where Can You Learn More About Pregnancy Insomnia and Other Similar Conditions?

If you want to learn more about pregnancy insomnia or are worried about your symptoms, LifeMD can help.

A medical professional can assist you by providing information on sleep disorders and recommending further symptom management options — all from the comfort of your own home.

Make an appointment with LifeMD and start your journey to more restful sleep today.

Dr. Banita Sehgal

Dr. Sehgal received her medical degree from Western University in Los Angeles and trained as Chief Resident at White Memorial Medical Center, also in Los Angeles. She’s been practicing medicine for 20+ years and has a specific interest in women’s health.

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