Parasomnias in Pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Sleep Medicine
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Neurology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Pregnancy is frequently linked to diminished sleep quality and increased sleep disorders.
• Parasomnias, such as sleepwalking and night terrors, are understudied in pregnant populations.
• Sleep disturbances during pregnancy may exacerbate or trigger parasomnia episodes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of parasomnias during pregnancy compared to pre- and post-delivery periods.
• To examine the influence of psychiatric, neurological, and pregnancy-related factors on parasomnia occurrence.

Main Methods:

• An online questionnaire survey was administered to 325 women.
• The survey assessed parasomnia prevalence in three periods: 3 months before pregnancy, during pregnancy, and 3 months after delivery.
• Data on comorbidities, anxiety, depression, and pregnancy complications were collected.

Main Results:

• Overall parasomnia prevalence significantly increased during pregnancy (p < 0.001) and decreased postpartum (p < 0.001).
• Specific parasomnias like sleepwalking (p = 0.02), night terrors (p < 0.001), vivid dreams (p < 0.001), nightmares (p < 0.001), and head explosions (p < 0.011) were more frequent during pregnancy.
• Migraines, chronic pain, and pregnancy complications were associated with increased parasomnia episodes.

Conclusions:

• Parasomnia prevalence rises during pregnancy, necessitating targeted interventions, particularly non-pharmacological approaches.
• Screening for psychiatric and neurological comorbidities is crucial in pregnant individuals experiencing parasomnias.
• Mothers with medical complications during pregnancy are more susceptible to sleep disorders, including parasomnias.