In the last two to three decades the maternal mortality and morbidity in America has increase despite significant advances in medicine. Obesity and its consequences are a significant contributor to the worsening outcomes in pregnancy noted in recent years. Obstructive Sleep Apnea can be worsened during pregnancy not only due to weight gain but also due to increased fluid retention and swelling of the upper airway. Sleep apnea during pregnancy can have significant effects on both the mother and the baby.
Effects on the Mother:
- Increased Risk of Hypertension & Preeclampsia – Sleep apnea is associated with high blood pressure, which can lead to complications like gestational hypertension. Preeclampsia and eclampsia, a serious condition that affects the organs and can be life-threatening.
- Gestational Diabetes – Pregnant women with sleep apnea have a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes, which can affect both maternal and fetal health.
- Fatigue & Daytime Sleepiness – Poor sleep quality can lead to excessive daytime sleepiness, increasing the risk of accidents and affecting daily functioning.
- Increased Risk of Caesarean-Section & Complications – Due to oxygen deprivation and other complications, women with sleep apnea may have a higher likelihood of requiring a C-section.
- Higher Risk of Preterm Labor – Sleep apnea has been linked to preterm birth, which can lead to additional health concerns for the baby.
Effects on the Baby:
- Low Birth Weight – Babies born to mothers with untreated sleep apnea may have a lower birth weight due to poor oxygen supply during pregnancy.
- Preterm Birth – Oxygen deprivation can lead to premature delivery, increasing the risk of respiratory issues and other developmental problems.
- Developmental & Growth Delays – Chronic low oxygen levels during pregnancy may impact fetal development and increase the risk of cognitive and behavioral issues later in life.
- Higher NICU Admission Rates – Babies born to mothers with sleep apnea are more likely to require neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission due to complications at birth.
Evaluation and Managing Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy:
- Prana Health offers fast track sleep apnea evaluation for pregnant women using both at home and in lab testing.
- Sleep Positioning: Sleeping on the left side can improve airflow.
- CPAP Therapy: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines can help keep the airway open and ensure oxygen supply.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the severity of sleep apnea.
- Regular Monitoring: Work closely with a doctor to monitor symptoms and manage any arising complications.
Early diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea during pregnancy is the key to significantly improve outcomes for both mother and baby. Take the test below to see if you have high risk of obstructive sleep apnea.
Traditional screening tools for obstructive sleep apnea like the Berlin questionnaire and STOP BANG screen have poor predictive value in determining the risk of obstructive in pregnant women. Pregnancy specific screening tools like the one below can determine if you are at high risk of obstructive sleep apnea.
