Snoring during pregnancy can be an especially worrisome problem. Sometimes, a condition called hypertension can lead to snoring during pregnancy. Both mother and fetus can be threatened, even to the point of death, by this devastating condition. And the fetus can suffer from developmental delays as a result of hypertension.

Another serious problem faced by pregnant women who snore is pre-eclampsia, which can cause hypertension, limb swelling, and protein in the urine. Toxemia is another possible condition indicated by snoring, as is excessive daytime sleeping. All of these issues should be brought to a health care provider's attention.

During pregnancy the mother's body produces extra blood to provide nourishment to the growing fetus. Her blood vessels increase in size at this time, throughout her body. However, when vessels in the nose and throat area enlarge, sometimes the mucus membranes become bloated. This can lead to obstructions causing breathing difficulties and strong snoring.

Researchers have discovered that snoring frequency increases during pregnancy. Perhaps a quarter of women will be snorers by the last three months of pregnancy. Those women who were previous snorers, will most likely notice the volume of their snoring increases markedly during pregnancy.

As stated earlier, obesity is a cause of snoring, and similarly, more than ten percent of women gain excess weight during pregnancy. Researchers say that prior snorers often have greater snoring, and can also have swelling in the feet, legs, hands, and face.

A serious concern with snoring during pregnancy is that the infants borne to pregnant snorers can experience certain difficulties. These babies may be born with low birth weights and lower APGAR scores, usually scoring seven or less. Seven percent of snoring moms gave birth to babies with reduced APGAR scores. It's important to note, however, that many of these women smoked during pregnancy, which can also greatly affect newborn birth weight.

Snoring during pregnancy can be reduced or even eliminated. Avoiding caffeine can help, as caffeine narrows the airways and creates more snoring. Sleeping on her side with an extra pillow can help the expectant mother to breathe with an open airway.

Using nasal strips is another effective method to reduce or stop snoring. Nasal strips are non-invasive, prescription-free appliances that are worn on the outside of the nose to open the airways during sleep.

Pregnancy can lead to increased susceptibility to breathing problems such as upper respiratory issues. With weight gain comes increased pressure on the diaphragm, leading to restrictions in breathing for many women.

If you are concerned due to an increase in snoring during pregnancy, visit your OB-GYN or healthcare provider. He or she will assess the snoring condition and consider potential affects on the fetus. It's certainly better to treat the problem during pregnancy, than to risk serious complications for your child.