Evie Summers
Sleep disturbances and insomnia are common during pregnancy, affecting one in four women in the first trimester and over two-thirds by the end of the third trimester. While sleeping pills can help with sleep disorders, there is limited research on the safety of taking them during pregnancy, and they may have side effects. Experts advise against certain sleeping pills due to their potential adverse effects on the pregnancy and baby. However, as sleep deprivation during pregnancy can have negative consequences, some pregnant individuals and their doctors may decide that the benefits of certain sleep aids outweigh the risks.
Is it dangerous to take sleeping pills while pregnant?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | There is a lack of research on the safety of taking sleeping pills during pregnancy. |
| Recommendations | Experts recommend trying lifestyle adjustments and natural sleep aids first. |
| Risks | Sleeping pills may have adverse effects on the pregnancy and baby, including birth defects, neonatal withdrawal, preterm labor, low birth weight, and increased rates of C-sections. |
| Alternatives | Improving sleep hygiene, limiting caffeine intake, avoiding heavy meals and spicy foods before bedtime, and sleeping on the left side are suggested alternatives. |
| Medical advice | It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any sleeping pills during pregnancy to weigh the risks and benefits. |
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What You'll Learn
- Sleeping pills with antihistamines are considered safe during pregnancy
- Benzodiazepines are linked to birth defects and neonatal withdrawal
- Zolpidem may cause withdrawal symptoms in newborn babies
- Lack of sleep during pregnancy can increase health risks
- Natural sleep aids and lifestyle changes are recommended first
Sleeping pills with antihistamines are considered safe during pregnancy
Sleep disturbance and insomnia are common during pregnancy, with one in four women experiencing these issues in the first trimester, and over two-thirds experiencing them by the end of the third trimester. While sleeping pills may be an option for some, it's important to note that there is limited research on the safety of taking sleep medications during pregnancy. Experts caution that it is better not to take natural sleep aids, such as herbs, amino acids, or minerals, due to the lack of research on their effects on the developing fetus. Similarly, the safety of many sleep aids for pregnant people and their fetuses has yet to be verified, as studies often exclude pregnant individuals.
That being said, certain over-the-counter sleep aids, such as Unisom and Benadryl, are generally considered safe for occasional use during pregnancy. Unisom, for example, contains the antihistamine doxylamine, which is considered safe during pregnancy by experts like Layan Alrahmani, M.D., a board-certified ob-gyn, and maternal-fetal medicine specialist. Antihistamines are a common ingredient in over-the-counter sleep aids, as they cause drowsiness by blocking histamines, the substances in the body that cause alertness. Another antihistamine, diphenhydramine, which is found in Benadryl, is also considered safe for occasional use during pregnancy.
While these options may be safer than other sleep aids, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any sleeping pills or sleep aids during pregnancy. Pregnant individuals should also be aware of potential side effects and interactions, as well as non-pharmacological measures that can help improve sleep, such as adjusting sleep positions, maintaining a regular bedtime routine, and avoiding caffeine and heavy meals before bed.
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Benzodiazepines are linked to birth defects and neonatal withdrawal
Sleep disturbance and insomnia are common during pregnancy, with up to two-thirds of women experiencing these issues in the third trimester. While sleeping pills can be effective in aiding sleep, there is limited research on their safety for pregnant people and their fetuses. This is because it is difficult to safely test medications on pregnant women.
Benzodiazepines, a type of prescription sleep medication, have been linked to adverse effects on pregnancy and the baby. They are not proven safe for pregnant women and are associated with an increased risk of miscarriage. They are also linked to birth defects and neonatal withdrawal, with newborns experiencing symptoms such as sleepiness, abnormal muscle tone, and respiratory problems. Additionally, research suggests that benzodiazepines may increase the likelihood of preterm labour, cesarean delivery, and low-birthweight infants.
While non-pharmacological interventions are generally considered the safest approach, they are often ineffective, leaving pregnant women dealing with the frustrations of sleep disturbances and the negative consequences of poor sleep. This highlights the complexity of managing sleep disorders during pregnancy and the need to carefully consider the risks and benefits of different treatments.
Pregnant women experiencing sleep difficulties should consult with their healthcare provider to discuss the available options and make informed decisions about their care. Lifestyle adjustments, such as improving sleep hygiene and limiting caffeine intake, are recommended as the first line of treatment before considering medication.
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Zolpidem may cause withdrawal symptoms in newborn babies
It is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking any sleeping pills during pregnancy. Zolpidem, also known as Ambien, is a sedative-hypnotic medication that has been used to treat insomnia. It is a type of medication called hypnotic benzodiazepine receptor agonists or HBRAs. Zolpidem is associated with withdrawal symptoms in newborn babies, especially if taken towards the end of pregnancy.
Zolpidem is known to enter the mother's breast milk in small amounts, and while no problems were reported in babies, it is advised to contact the child's healthcare provider if symptoms such as sedation, poor weight gain, low muscle tone, or slowed breathing are observed. Sedative medications like zolpidem can cause withdrawal symptoms in newborns when taken close to delivery. These symptoms may include difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, irritability, crying, trouble sleeping, tremors, and jitteriness.
Drug withdrawal in newborns, or neonatal abstinence syndrome, occurs when drugs pass through the placenta and enter the baby's bloodstream. The baby's body gets used to the drug, and after birth, when the drug leaves the body, the baby goes through withdrawal. This can happen within hours or later, depending on the drug. It is important to inform the baby's doctor if any drugs or prescription medications were taken during pregnancy so that the doctor can monitor the baby's health and perform additional tests if needed.
While sleep disturbance and insomnia are common during pregnancy, there is limited research on the safety of taking sleeping pills, and experts recommend trying natural sleep aids or lifestyle adjustments first. Some natural sleep aids to consider include improving sleep hygiene, such as drinking tea, taking a warm shower, meditating, or light reading before bed. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of using sleeping pills during pregnancy and consult a healthcare provider to determine if the benefits of quality sleep outweigh the potential risks to the mother and baby.
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Lack of sleep during pregnancy can increase health risks
Sleep is essential for health, and this is especially true during pregnancy when the body needs more sleep than usual to recharge. While feeling tired will not harm the baby, sleep deprivation during pregnancy can have negative consequences for the mother's health.
Pregnancy is one of the most common causes of insomnia, with hormonal changes and added weight causing discomfort and disrupting sleep. Sleep problems during pregnancy can also be caused by stress, anxiety, and nightmares about labour and birth. While occasional sleeplessness is normal, insomnia can be a symptom of depression, so it's important to talk to a doctor or midwife if you are concerned.
Research suggests that women who don't get enough sleep during pregnancy may be at higher risk of developing pregnancy complications, including longer labour, higher rates of C-sections, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes. Lack of sleep can also cause restless leg syndrome (RLS), which is linked to anemia, a common condition during pregnancy.
If you are experiencing sleep problems during pregnancy, it is recommended to try lifestyle changes and natural sleep aids before resorting to medication. This could include relaxation and breathing techniques, light exercise during the day, reducing screen time before bed, and improving "sleep hygiene" by drinking tea, taking a warm shower, meditating, or reading before bed. Maintaining a regular bedtime routine and a dark, quiet bedroom can also help.
If lifestyle changes are not effective, it is important to speak to a healthcare provider about safe treatment options. While some sleep medications should be avoided during pregnancy, a healthcare provider can advise on whether the benefits of medication may outweigh the risks in certain cases.
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Natural sleep aids and lifestyle changes are recommended first
Sleep disturbances and insomnia are common during pregnancy, affecting one in four women in the first trimester and over two-thirds by the end of the third trimester. While sleeping pills can be a solution, they are not recommended for long-term use due to their potential side effects.
During pregnancy, it is advisable to prioritize natural sleep aids and lifestyle changes as the first line of treatment. Here are some recommendations:
Natural Sleep Aids
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture has been found to significantly improve sleep quality in pregnant women by increasing the body's melatonin levels. Melatonin is a hormone that promotes sleep and helps us relax.
- Melatonin supplements: Melatonin is a hormone that influences when we fall asleep and wake up. However, there is insufficient evidence to determine the safety of melatonin supplements during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
- Valerian: Valerian has a natural calming effect on the nervous system and can promote better sleep.
Lifestyle Changes
- Sleep hygiene: Engage in relaxing activities before bed, such as drinking a cup of tea, taking a warm shower, meditating, or light reading. Avoid watching TV or excessive phone use right before bed.
- Sleep environment: Create a quiet and dimly lit sleep environment. Use a small lavender pillow that can be heated in the microwave, or add a few drops of lavender essential oil to your regular pillow, as lavender promotes drowsiness.
- Sleep position: Sleep on your side, placing a pillow between your legs for added comfort.
- Routine: Establish a consistent sleep routine by going to bed at the same time every day.
- Exercise: Engage in moderate exercise, such as yoga, for as long as you feel comfortable. Yoga can help with relaxation and reducing anxiety.
- Diet: Avoid stimulating drinks after 6 pm, and cut down on caffeine, especially later in the day. Spicy foods and large meals, especially close to bedtime, can contribute to indigestion, which is common during pregnancy. Instead, opt for soothing teas, such as lemon balm tea, chamomile tea, or passion fruit juice, about 30 minutes before bed.
- Stress reduction: Pregnancy can be a stressful time due to biological changes, moving homes, or preparing for the new family member. Stress reduction techniques, such as relaxation and breathing techniques, are essential to improving sleep quality.
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Frequently asked questions
There is limited research on the safety of taking sleeping pills during pregnancy. However, some sleep aids are known to have adverse effects on the pregnancy and baby, so it is recommended to avoid them unless advised by a medical professional.
Lifestyle adjustments are recommended as the first line of treatment for sleep issues during pregnancy. This can include improving your "sleep hygiene", such as drinking a cup of tea, taking a warm shower, meditating, or trying some light reading before bed. It is also recommended to sleep on your left side, keep the bedroom dark and quiet, and establish a regular bedtime routine.
Doxylamine, an antihistamine and the active ingredient in Unisom, is considered safe during pregnancy. Diphenhydramine is another antihistamine that is considered safe to take during pregnancy, even for extended periods.
Benzodiazepines, such as Valium, Ativan, and Xanax, should be avoided during pregnancy due to risks of birth defects, neonatal withdrawal, preterm labour, and low birth weight. Zolpidem, also known as Ambien, and eszopiclone, also known as Lunesta, are also associated with adverse effects and should be avoided.
