Diagnosis and management of common sleep disorders during the perinatal period

Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2024 Dec;167(3):911-920. doi: 10.1002/ijgo.15776. Epub 2024 Jul 7.

Abstract

The perinatal period is a critical phase in a woman's life characterized by significant physical, emotional, and societal changes. Sleep disorders such as insomnia, restless legs syndrome, obstructive sleep apnea, and poor sleep quality have been observed to increase in prevalence during the perinatal period. Given the harmful impact of sleep disturbances on the health of both mother and newborn, it is crucial to diagnose and treat them promptly. There is a paucity of literature on sleep problems during the perinatal period. This narrative review aimed to summarize the existing evidence and provide suggestions for promptly identifying and managing these disorders.

Keywords: insomnia; perinatal; restless legs syndrome; sleep apnea; sleep quality.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Perinatal Care / methods
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications* / diagnosis
  • Pregnancy Complications* / therapy
  • Restless Legs Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Restless Legs Syndrome / therapy
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / diagnosis
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / therapy
  • Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / diagnosis
  • Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / therapy
  • Sleep Quality
  • Sleep Wake Disorders* / diagnosis
  • Sleep Wake Disorders* / therapy