Snoring in pregnancy - why it happens and how to stop

Snoring is a common night-time problem in pregnancy, with moms-to-be three times more likely to start snoring by the final trimester. But thankfully, for many it’s only a temporary habit and there are ways to reduce the noise.

According to the British Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Association, 23% of women snore during pregnancy, with the two main culprits being hormones and weight gain. Changes in hormone levels dilate blood vessels and cause mucous membranes to swell in your nose. This causes congestion and a narrowing of your nasal passages forcing you to breathe through your mouth as you sleep, and, more often than not, snore.

According to US scientists, chronic snoring may be a sign of breathing problems that could possibly affect your oxygen supply to the baby. However, chronic snoring refers to women who snore regularly and badly both before they get pregnant and during their pregnancy.

“Chronic snoring can often be treated,” says lead researcher and IHPI member, Dr Louise O’Brien, from U-M’s Sleep Disorders Center.