Protect Your & Your Child’s Health
Pregnancy comes with its own set of challenges, and for expectant mothers suffering from sleep apnea, the difficulties can be even greater. Sleep apnea, a disorder characterized by frequent pauses in breathing during sleep, can have serious consequences for both the mother and the unborn baby if left untreated.
That’s why it’s crucial to seek professional help from a sleep specialist like Dr. Stephen Ura, who offers customized oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea in Nashua, NH. Contact our Nashua practice at (603) 237-1124 to schedule an appointment and start your journey towards restful nights.
What is Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy?
Sleep apnea during pregnancy is a condition where the expectant mother experiences repeated disruptions in breathing while sleeping. These disruptions can deprive the body and the developing fetus of oxygen, leading to potential complications.
Symptoms of sleep apnea during pregnancy may include:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping for air during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Headaches
- Insomnia
Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy
Untreated sleep apnea during pregnancy can have severe consequences for both the mother and the baby:
- Gestational diabetes
- Preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy)
- Preterm birth
- Low birth weight
- Fetal growth restrictions
- Increased risk of Cesarean delivery
An additional complication of sleep apnea during pregnancy is obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS). This occurs when an overweight person fails to breathe sufficiently, causing blood carbon dioxide levels to rise and blood sugar levels to drop. This fluctuation can be harmful to both your health and that of your unborn child.
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy
While the most common treatment for sleep apnea is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, many pregnant women find it uncomfortable or difficult to use due to side effects like nausea or difficulty breathing. Dr. Ura offers a convenient and comfortable alternative – customized oral appliance therapy.
Oral appliances are small, custom-fitted devices that gently shift the lower jaw forward, preventing the airway from collapsing during sleep. These appliances are silent, easy to wear, and allow for freedom of movement while sleeping. Dr. Ura works closely with sleep physicians to ensure the appliance is properly fitted and effective in treating your sleep apnea.
Follow-Up Care and Monitoring
Throughout your pregnancy, it’s essential to receive ongoing monitoring and care from both your healthcare provider and Dr. Ura. Regular check-ins and follow-up sleep studies may be necessary to ensure the treatment is effectively managing your sleep apnea and protecting the health of you and your baby.
Visit Dr. Ura for Sleep Apnea Treatment
At the Center for Dental Sleep Health, Dr. Ura and his team understand the unique challenges faced by pregnant women with sleep apnea. With over three decades of experience, Dr. Ura provides personalized care and innovative oral appliance therapy to help you and your baby enjoy restful, safe nights.
Call our Nashua office today at (603) 237-1124 to schedule your appointment, or fill out our online contact form. We proudly serve patients from Nashua, Hudson, Merrimack, Milford, and surrounding areas in New Hampshire.