Sleep Dentist Near You for Expectant Mothers
Are you experiencing loud snoring, restless nights, or excessive daytime fatigue during your pregnancy? You’re not alone. Research shows that 3 to 27 percent of pregnant women experience obstructive sleep apnea, with higher rates during the third trimester. If you’re searching for a sleep apnea dentist near you in Nashua, Hudson, Merrimack, or Milford, Dr. Stephen Ura provides specialized oral appliance therapy to protect both you and your developing baby.
Call our Nashua sleep apnea clinic at (603) 886-4300 to schedule your consultation with New Hampshire’s trusted sleep specialist. We serve expecting mothers throughout southern New Hampshire with safe, effective sleep apnea solutions.
What is Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) during pregnancy occurs when your upper airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, causing breathing interruptions that can last 10 seconds or longer. This common sleep disorder affects blood oxygen levels, potentially impacting both maternal and fetal health.
If you’re wondering, “Why does sleep apnea develop during pregnancy?” Several factors increase the risk of developing sleep apnea during pregnancy:
- Hormonal changes: Rising estrogen levels cause nasal congestion and upper airway swelling
- Weight gain: Increased neck circumference and upper body weight
- Third trimester changes: A growing baby puts pressure on the diaphragm
- Insulin resistance: Pregnancy hormones can affect glucose metabolism
Sleep Apnea Symptoms in Pregnant Women
Many pregnant women dismiss sleep apnea symptoms as normal pregnancy discomforts. Watch for these warning signs:
- Loud snoring that disrupts your partner’s sleep
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness despite adequate sleep time
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feel tired even after a full night’s rest
- Frequent nighttime urination beyond typical pregnancy patterns
Serious Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea in Pregnancy
Recent population-based studies show sleep apnea significantly increases risks of pregnancy hypertension, preterm birth, and NICU admissions. Untreated obstructive sleep apnea can lead to:
For Expectant Mothers:
- Gestational diabetes: Disrupted sleep affects insulin resistance
- Gestational hypertension: High blood pressure during pregnancy
- Preeclampsia: A dangerous condition requiring immediate medical attention
- Increased risk of cesarean delivery
- Poor sleep quality affects mental health
For Your Developing Baby:
- Low birth weight due to reduced oxygen supply
- Preterm birth and complications from early delivery
- Fetal growth restrictions
- Lower Apgar scores at birth
- Higher likelihood of NICU admission
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options for Pregnant Women Near You
While CPAP therapy remains the gold standard for severe sleep apnea, many pregnant women find CPAP machines uncomfortable due to pregnancy-related nausea and sensitivity. Dr. Ura offers superior alternatives:
Our FDA-approved oral appliances gently reposition your lower jaw forward, keeping your airway open throughout the night. These sleep apnea solutions offer distinct advantages for pregnant women:
- Silent operation: No noise to disturb your sleep
- Comfortable fit: Custom-designed for your mouth
- Easy to travel: Compact and convenient
- No electricity required: Perfect for power outages
- Side sleeping compatible: Ideal for pregnancy sleeping positions
For severe sleep apnea cases, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy provides essential treatment. Our team collaborates closely with sleep medicine physicians to ensure the proper setup and ongoing monitoring of CPAP machines.
Local Sleep Study and Diagnosis Process
Are you wondering, “Is there a sleep specialist near me in Nashua?” Dr. Ura collaborates with local sleep medicine centers to streamline your diagnosis and treatment:
- Initial consultation at our Nashua office
- Sleep study referral to accredited facilities nearby
- Early diagnosis ensures prompt treatment
- Custom treatment planning based on your specific needs
- Ongoing monitoring throughout your pregnancy
Comprehensive Follow-Up Care in Southern New Hampshire
Pregnancy sleep apnea requires specialized monitoring as your body changes. Our team provides:
- Regular appliance adjustments as gestational age progresses
- Blood oxygen level monitoring
- Collaboration with your OB/GYN
- Post-delivery reassessment (sleep apnea resolves in about half of women after delivery)
Why Choose Dr. Ura for Sleep Apnea Treatment in Nashua?
If you’re looking for a qualified dentist who practices dental sleep medicine, there are several reasons why you should choose Dr. Ura:
- Three decades of specialized experience treating sleep disorders in New Hampshire families
- Personalized care approach tailored to pregnancy needs
- State-of-the-art oral appliances custom-fitted for maximum comfort
- Collaborative medical team working with local healthcare providers
- Convenient Nashua location serving Hudson, Merrimack, Milford, and surrounding areas
- Flexible scheduling accommodating pregnancy appointment needs
Take Action for Better Sleep and a Healthy Pregnancy
Don’t let untreated sleep apnea jeopardize your health or your baby’s development. With over 30 million Americans affected by sleep apnea, you are not alone in this journey.
Speak with our sleep apnea team in Nashua at (603) 886-4300 to schedule your sleep apnea consultation today. Dr. Ura and our experienced staff are dedicated to helping expectant mothers in the Nashua area achieve restful sleep and maintain healthy pregnancies. Contact us today to begin your journey toward improved sleep quality and peace of mind.
We proudly serve pregnant women and families in Nashua, Hudson, Merrimack, Milford, and the surrounding New Hampshire communities with diagnosis and treatment for sleep apnea.