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Sleep disorders in perinatal women
Sabra M Abbott1, Hrayr Attarian1, Phyllis C Zee1
1Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
Best Practice & Research. Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology
|October 23, 2013
Summary
Sleep disturbances are common, especially for women, and can worsen during the perinatal period. This chapter reviews unique diagnostic and treatment approaches for sleep disorders in pregnant and postpartum individuals.
Area of Science:
- Sleep Medicine
- Women's Health
- Perinatal Health
Background:
- Insufficient sleep affects the general population due to various factors including medical disorders and sleep disorders like insomnia, circadian rhythm disorders, sleep apnea, and restless legs syndrome.
- Women are disproportionately affected by sleep disorders, with higher prevalence across the lifespan.
- The perinatal period presents unique challenges for sleep, potentially exacerbating existing conditions or altering treatment for disorders such as insomnia and narcolepsy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of current knowledge on the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders.
- To highlight the unique aspects of sleep disorders during the perinatal period.
- To discuss the emerging role of circadian rhythms in fertility and perinatal health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current knowledge on sleep disorders in the perinatal period.
- Synthesis of information regarding diagnosis and treatment modifications.
- Exploration of the impact of circadian rhythms on reproductive health.
Main Results:
- Sleep disorders are prevalent and can be exacerbated during pregnancy and postpartum.
- Treatment strategies for certain sleep disorders may require adjustments during the perinatal phase.
- Circadian rhythm's influence on fertility and perinatal outcomes is an area of growing research.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the specific challenges of sleep disorders in the perinatal period is crucial for effective management.
- Tailored diagnostic and therapeutic approaches are necessary for women experiencing sleep disturbances during this time.
- Further research into circadian rhythms is needed to optimize fertility and perinatal health outcomes.
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