Post-Partum
As might be expected, mothers of newborn babies experience much sleeplessness and daytime sleepiness. This may contribute to the "postnatal blues" experienced by most new mothers. Usually temporary, these can be extremely serious and even put a new mother at risk of suicide. In general, it is treatable with professional help and will improve as the baby develops and establishes regular, night-time sleep.
Snoring and Severe Daytime Sleepiness
About 30% of pregnant women snore because of increased swelling in their nasal passages. This may partially block the airways. Snoring can lead to high blood pressure, which can put both the mother and foetus at risk. If the blockage is severe, sleep apnoea may result, characterized by loud snoring and periods of stopped breathing during sleep. Lack of oxygen disrupts sleep and may affect the unborn foetus. If loud snoring and severe daytime sleepiness occur, consult your doctor.
Secondary Restless Legs in Pregnancy
Up to 15% of pregnant women develop Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) during the third trimester. A contributing cause may be iron and/or folate acid deficiency. RLS symptoms make it difficult to fall and stay asleep due to an uncontrollable urge to move the legs in response to unpleasant, restless, creepy feelings in the legs. These feelings often disrupt sleep as well. Moving the legs can stop these symptoms temporarily, but the irritation returns when the limb is still. Fortunately, RLS symptoms usually end after delivery of the baby. Medications used to treat RLS may cause harm to the foetus and should be discussed with a doctor.
Most Common Sleep Problems In Women
Sleep problems affect more women than men. New research exploring women's sleep experiences may lead to specially tailored treatments.
1. Insomnia
Insomnia is the most common sleep problem. Women are more likely than men to report insomnia. Sometimes, women begin to have sleepless nights associated with menstruation, pregnancy or menopause and find it difficult to break poor sleep habits. Approaches to improving sleep include exercise, establishing regular bed and wake times, dietary changes (less or no caffeine and alcohol) and improving your sleep environment. One recent study found that overweight, post-menopausal women who exercise in the morning experience less difficulty falling asleep and better quality sleep than evening exercisers.
If insomnia persists, and lifestyle, behavioural or diet changes do not help, discuss your problem with a doctor.
