Pregnancy can change a lot about your body, which can make it difficult to keep track of what you should do to take care of yourself – and your baby. So if you don’t know how sleep apnea can impact expecting mothers, that’s understandable!
Basically, sleep apnea can contribute to other health issues that can complicate both your wellness and your baby’s development. You’re not on your own, though; keep reading to see how your sleep dentist in Tulsa can help.
What Causes Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy?
Even if you don’t have a history of obstructive sleep apnea, there’s a chance you could develop the condition during pregnancy. This is due to a couple of reasons:
- Hormonal changes can cause your oral tissue to overrelax and block your airway.
- Natural weight gain can increase the amount of obstructive oral tissue.
- Your baby could be pressing against your lungs while you sleep and contributing to your nightly breathing problems.
How Does This Affect Me and My Baby?
Not getting enough oxygen while you sleep disrupts your body’s natural processes. In general, this can increase your risk of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. During pregnancy specifically, fluctuating hormones combined with low oxygen levels can cause:
- High blood sugar and gestational diabetes, which is associated with a higher likelihood of needing a C-section.
- Preeclampsia – a condition that raises blood pressure and has the potential to damage organs.
- Inhibited fetal development or low birth weight.
Treating Sleep Apnea While Pregnant
Sleep apnea treatment is often associated with the dreaded CPAP machine, which might seem especially unappealing when you’re growing a tiny human in your stomach. But this may not be your only option. Your sleep dentist in Tulsa can provide you with a customized oral sleep appliance that’s designed to shift your jaw forward. This opens up your airway, and relieves sleep apnea symptoms on its own or when combined with CPAP.
Your sleep dentist can also make lifestyle recommendations and help you find the best sleeping position. Since obstructive sleep apnea is characterized by overrelaxed tissue, changing your position can make a big difference! Remember, managing your sleep apnea symptoms and getting a better night’s rest will be good for both you and your baby, so don’t wait to get in touch with your qualified sleep expert!
About the Practice
At Healthy Sleep Tulsa, our three specialized sleep dentists provide personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs. If you’re expecting and struggle with sleep apnea, please get in touch with our friendly team. We’ll work with you closely to address your symptoms and help you and your baby stay happy and healthy! To book your sleep apnea consultation today, call 918-300-4325.