Sleep Disorders in Pregnancy Linked to Higher Maternal and Fetal Risks: JAMA
Researchers have found in a new study that insomnia or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of ischemic placental disease, severe maternal morbidity, and preterm birth. The findings underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing sleep problems during pregnancy, which are often dismissed as common discomforts rather than potential clinical concerns.
The research, published in JAMA Network Open (2025), analyzed data from a large population-based cohort to explore the impact of sleep disorders on pregnancy outcomes. Women diagnosed with insomnia or OSA showed significantly higher rates of complications compared to those without such conditions. The study found that ischemic placental disease, which includes conditions such as preeclampsia and placental abruption, was more frequent in patients with sleep disorders. In addition, these women were at increased risk of severe maternal morbidity events and had a higher likelihood of delivering preterm. While the mechanisms remain under investigation, researchers suggest that impaired oxygenation, systemic inflammation, and hormonal imbalances linked to poor sleep quality may contribute to these outcomes.
The findings highlight an urgent need for better screening and management of sleep disorders in prenatal care. Currently, routine obstetric assessments rarely include sleep evaluations, leaving many cases of insomnia and OSA underdiagnosed. By incorporating sleep health into pregnancy monitoring, clinicians may be able to identify high-risk patients earlier and intervene with behavioral, lifestyle, or medical strategies. For expectant mothers, the study emphasizes the value of reporting persistent sleep issues to healthcare providers rather than dismissing them as a normal part of pregnancy. As maternal and fetal complications continue to drive healthcare burdens worldwide, addressing modifiable risk factors such as sleep may become a critical step in improving outcomes for both mother and child.
Reference: JAMA Network Open. (2025). Sleep disorders and adverse maternal and fetal outcomes: a population-based cohort study. JAMA Network Open. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2839004
Keywords: pregnancy, sleep disorders, insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, maternal morbidity, ischemic placental disease, preterm birth, JAMA Network Open.
