Pregnancy is a beautiful yet challenging phase that every woman goes through. It is crucial for mothers to take care of their health during pregnancy, including getting enough sleep.

Sleep deprivation during pregnancy can lead to a range of complications, including increased mortality risk for both the mother and fetal outcomes.

What causes sleep deprivation during pregnancy?

Several factors can lead to sleep deprivation in pregnant women. The most common one is hormonal changes that cause discomfort and make it difficult to fall or stay asleep.

Pregnant women also need to go to the bathroom more frequently, which can disturb their sleep cycle. Finally, stress and anxiety can also impact sleep quality and quantity.

The risk of maternal mortality

Maternal mortality is a term used to describe the death of a woman during pregnancy or within 42 days of giving birth.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 830 women die daily from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Sleep deprivation during pregnancy increases the risk of maternal mortality.

Research shows that women who sleep less than five hours per day during pregnancy have a significantly higher risk of maternal mortality. This is because sleep deprivation can lead to several health problems that can be potentially life-threatening.

For instance, sleep-deprived pregnant women are more susceptible to high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia, which can result in maternal mortality.

The risk of fetal mortality and morbidity

Sleep deprivation during pregnancy can also impact fetal outcomes and increase the risk of fetal mortality or morbidity, which refers to the presence of disease or injury in the fetus.

Studies show that pregnant women who do not get enough sleep have a higher chance of delivering preterm babies with lower birth weights.

Moreover, sleep deprivation during pregnancy can increase the risk of stillbirth, which is the death of a fetus after the 20th week of pregnancy.

Research suggests that women who sleep less than six hours per day during the third trimester of pregnancy have a higher risk of stillbirth compared to those who sleep more than six hours per day.

The importance of sleep hygiene during pregnancy

Sleep hygiene refers to the habits and practices that promote healthy and restful sleep. Maintaining good sleep hygiene during pregnancy is essential to reduce the risk of mortality and morbidity for both the mother and the fetus.

Here are some tips to improve sleep hygiene during pregnancy:.

Establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book.
Avoid caffeine and other stimulants, especially at night.
Avoid heavy meals close to bedtime as it can cause indigestion and interfere with sleep.
Make sure the bedroom is comfortable, cool, and dark.
Avoid using electronic devices before bedtime as the blue light can disrupt sleep.
Exercise regularly, but avoid strenuous activities close to bedtime.

Conclusion

In summary, sleep deprivation during pregnancy can lead to increased mortality risk for both the mother and fetal outcomes. Pregnant women should prioritize their sleep hygiene to promote healthy and restful sleep.

Lack of sleep may seem like a minor issue, but it can have serious consequences that can affect the health of both the mother and the baby.