The birth of your precious baby into the world changes everything – including how you sleep. While everyone talks about midnight feedings and nap schedules, let’s have a gentle conversation about something equally important: your own rest and breathing during sleep.

Postpartum Sleep Apnea: All You Should Know About New Moms’ Sleep Disorders

As your body heals from pregnancy and birth, you might notice some changes in how you sleep and breathe at night. Many new moms will experience and obstructive sleep apnoea, but, do not worry. We’ll show you there are methods to prevent or eliminate sleep related breathing disorders, sleep fragmentation, hypertensive disorders or any other disturbing issue.

What Is Sleep Apnea, and Why Should You Care?

Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing pauses or becomes shallow during sleep. The interruptions may make you feel tired, foggy, or unwell. One common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where the upper airway gets partially or fully blocked while you rest.

After giving birth, your body needs rest more than ever. If sleep apnea occurs during the postpartum period, it disrupts the recovery process. The good news? Once you understand the condition, you’re one step closer to addressing it. 

How Common Is Sleep Apnea in Pregnancy and Postpartum?

While not every mom experiences sleep apnea during pregnancy or postpartum, it’s more common than you’d think. Experts in sleep medicine have noted that pregnant women, especially those with conditions like gestational diabetes or gestational hypertension, may face an increased risk.

Changes in weight, hormones, and the upper airway size during and after pregnancy also play a role. Gestational obstructive sleep apnea is a specific type of sleep apnea that occurs during pregnancy and may persist postpartum.

Sleep-disordered breathing, including snoring or breathing pauses, is more common in women as their pregnancy progresses, especially in the third trimester. For some women, the symptoms may continue postpartum.

The considerable prevalence and risks of sleep apnea in pregnancy, including its association with conditions like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, highlight the importance of effective screening and treatment options for the wellbeing of the mother and the infant.

What Your Nighttime Breathing Tells You

Sometimes, new moms notice their breathing doesn’t flow as smoothly at night as it used to. It is called sleep-disordered breathing, and it’s like when a gentle stream hits a few rocks – the flow gets a bit disrupted. You’re not alone if you’ve noticed something similar. Many women experience changes in their breathing patterns during sleep, especially after having a baby.

Gentle Signs Your Body May Be Sending

Your amazing body has ways of letting you know when it needs extra attention:

• You might feel a different kind of tired – beyond the usual new-mom exhaustion. Even after catching up on rest, you still feel foggy and drained, like you haven’t slept at all.
• Your partner might mention hearing changes in your breathing at night – maybe some pauses or louder breathing than usual. That could be obstructive sleep apnea, where your airway needs a little extra support to stay open while you rest.

Why Might Sleep Apnea Happen After Pregnancy?

Your body goes through remarkable changes during pregnancy and delivery. The changes don’t always reverse immediately. Various risk factors contribute to developing sleep apnea postpartum, including:

• Weight changes: Many moms experience gestational weight gain, and extra weight affects breathing during sleep.
• Hormonal shifts: Hormones influence the upper airway and blood pressure, potentially contributing to disordered breathing.
• Healing period: If you experienced swelling or other changes during delivery, it might temporarily narrow your airway.

How Does Sleep Apnea Affect New Moms?

Untreated sleep apnea could make the postpartum journey harder than it needs to be. Research shows that maternal symptoms of obstructive sleep issues may sometimes lead to more serious concerns like gestational hypertension or ongoing blood pressure issues. But let’s be clear: the effects are manageable when addressed. With the right support, you’ll find relief and reclaim your rest.

How To Get Better Sleep

Here’s the encouraging news: there are kind and gentle ways to help you sleep better. Sleep medicine specialists understand the unique challenges new moms face. They support you, not judge you, and offer caring guidance if you’re experiencing obstructive sleep. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a common and effective treatment they use for sleep apnea, keeping the airway open and improving sleep quality.

Simple, Loving Steps for Better Rest

Let’s look at some gentle ways to improve your sleep:

• Create a cozy sleep space that feels like a peaceful retreat – even if you only use it for short periods between feeding your little one
• Try sleeping with your head slightly tilted on soft, supportive pillows to help keep your upper airway comfortable
• When possible, sync your rest times with your baby’s – even if you don’t sleep, quiet relaxation is often refreshing
• Sleep on your side: The position keeps your airway open.
• Create a routine: A soothing bedtime routine should prepare your body for rest.
• Seek support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help with household tasks if you need time to rest.

Why It’s Okay to Ask for Help

If you’re reading and thinking, “I might have sleep apnea,” that’s a brave first step. When you ask for help, you’re showing a sign of strength, not weakness. Many moms find that managing their maternal sleep-disordered breathing leads to better days and more energy for their families.

When Should You Speak to a Doctor?

It’s natural to wonder if what you’re feeling is just part of being a new mom or something more. The truth is, it’s always okay to check in with a doctor if you’re unsure. Symptoms like daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, or waking up feeling short of breath are good reasons to reach out.

Your doctor may ask about:

• Changes in your sleep patterns since giving birth.
• Any history of gestational diabetes or gestational hypertension during pregnancy.
• Whether your partner has noticed you snore loudly or stop breathing during sleep.

The conversations may feel overwhelming, but they’re important. Remember, your doctor’s goal is to get you to feel better—not to judge or blame.

Building Your Circle of Support

Support makes such a difference:

• Your healthcare team wants you to thrive – they understand the sleep challenges new moms face
• Family members and friends   may be invaluable, offering chances for you to rest and recover
• Other new moms might share similar experiences, creating a caring community of understanding

What if It’s Untreated?

Untreated obstructive sleep apnea may lead to challenges like long-term fatigue or health concerns such as high blood pressure. It might also affect postpartum recovery and contribute to maternal symptoms like mood changes or reduced focus.

But the effects are preventable. Let experts help you address sleep apnea to restore your energy and improve your health and ability to fully enjoy your precious time with your baby.

What About My Baby’s Health?

One of the most reassuring things to remember is that treating your sleep apnea benefits both you and your baby. Studies have looked at fetal outcomes and neonatal outcomes, showing that improving a mom’s sleep quality positively impacts her child. Your health matters so much for you, and for your family, too.

Dr. Kristal’s Note of Encouragement

If you’re experiencing sleep apnea symptoms, know that solutions are available. Whether it’s through lifestyle changes, medical treatment, or simply seeking support, you have options. Many moms have gone through the same stage as you and have found their way to better sleep and health.

You deserve rest. You deserve healing. And most of all, you deserve to feel supported every step of the way.