Quick Answer: Snoring during pregnancy is extremely common due to Pregnancy Rhinitis (hormonal swelling of nasal passages) and weight gain. Research in Obstetrics & Gynecology has linked new-onset or worsening snoring to higher risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia. Always mention new snoring to your OB or midwife.
Brad, Owner, 40+ years of experience: "We have been helping Brantford families sleep better since 1997. Every customer gets personal attention, honest advice, and the kind of follow-up service you just do not get from big box stores."
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You never snored in your life. Now, in your second trimester, your partner says you sound like a freight train.
At Mattress Miracle, we see many expecting couples who are tired, cranky, and sleeping in separate rooms because of the noise. The pregnant partner feels guilty, and the other partner feels exhausted.
The good news: You aren't doing it on purpose. It is biology.
The "Pregnancy Rhinitis" Effect
Everyone blames the baby weight, but often the culprit is in your nose, not your neck.
High levels of estrogen and progesterone cause your mucous membranes to swell. This happens everywhere, including inside your nose. This swelling (edema) narrows your nasal passages, making it harder for air to get through.
The "Stuffy" Snore
This condition, called Pregnancy Rhinitis, affects up to 30% of pregnant women. It feels like a permanent head cold without the sickness. Because you can't breathe through your nose, you open your mouth to sleep,and mouth breathing equals snoring.
8 min read
When Snoring Signals Preeclampsia
Most of the time, snoring is just annoying. But sometimes, it is a warning.
Research shows a link between the onset of snoring during pregnancy and high blood pressure (preeclampsia). If your airway is blocked (apnea), your oxygen levels drop. Your heart has to work harder to pump blood, raising your blood pressure.
Red Flags: If your snoring is accompanied by swelling in your hands/face, headaches, or seeing spots, call your doctor immediately. High blood pressure is dangerous for both you and the baby.
Why Back Sleeping is Out
Before pregnancy, you might have been a back sleeper. Now, back sleeping is a double negative.
- Snoring: Gravity pulls your tongue back, blocking the airway.
- Blood Flow: The weight of the uterus compresses the vena cava (major vein), reducing blood flow to the baby and making you feel dizzy.
You must side sleep. But side sleeping is hard if your hips hurt.
Safe Ways to Stop the Noise
You can't take most decongestants while pregnant. You need mechanical fixes.
- Nasal Strips: These stiff bandages physically pull your nostrils open, countering the swelling of rhinitis. They are 100% drug-free and safe.
- Humidifier: Moist air soothes swollen tissues. Dry air makes them stickier and louder.
- Elevation: This is the big one.
The Adjustable Bed Advantage
Brad, our owner, recommends an Adjustable Base for pregnancy not just for snoring, but for heartburn. Elevating your head 15-20 degrees uses gravity to keep the airway open and keep stomach acid down. It is safer than stacking pillows, which can cause neck strain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shop: Adjustable Beds at Mattress Miracle
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Adjustable base options at Mattress Miracle:
- Deluxe Adjustable Bed (15 Massage Modes)
- Affordable Adjustable Bed (German Motor)
- Restonic SleepBeat SE1005 Base
Or adjustable bed frames in our Brantford showroom.
Find Your Perfect Mattress at Mattress Miracle
We are a family-owned mattress store in Brantford, helping our community sleep better since 1997. Come try mattresses in person and get honest, no-pressure advice.
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, Ontario
Call 519-770-0001Will the snoring stop after the baby is born?
Usually, yes. Once your hormone levels normalize and the fluid retention (swelling) goes down, your nasal passages open up again. Most women stop snoring within a few weeks of delivery.
Can I use a Neti Pot?
Yes, saline rinses are generally considered safe and effective for clearing mucus from Pregnancy Rhinitis. Just ensure you use distilled or boiled (cooled) water, never tap water.
Is snoring bad for the baby?
Simple snoring usually isn't harmful. However, if you have Sleep Apnea (stopping breathing), the drops in oxygen can affect the baby's growth. This is why mentioning it to your doctor is crucial.
Can I use a snoring mouthguard while pregnant?
Check with your dentist. Pregnancy can cause gum swelling and bleeding (pregnancy gingivitis). A tight mouthguard might be uncomfortable or irritate inflamed gums.
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
Mattress Miracle
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford
Phone: (519) 770-0001
Hours: Mon-Wed 10-6, Thu-Fri 10-7, Sat 10-5, Sun 12-4
Our team has 38 years of experience helping customers find the right sleep solution. Call ahead or walk in any day of the week.
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
We are located at 441½ West Street in downtown Brantford. Free parking available. Our team does not work on commission, so you get honest advice based on your needs.
Mattress Miracle, 441½ West Street, Brantford, ON · (519) 770-0001
Hours: Monday–Wednesday 10am–6pm, Thursday–Friday 10am–7pm, Saturday 10am–5pm, Sunday 12pm–4pm.
Sources
- Bourjeily, G. et al. (2010). "Pregnancy and fetal outcomes of symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing." European Respiratory Journal, 36(4), 849-855. PubMed 20378592. Links new-onset snoring in pregnancy to preeclampsia and gestational hypertension risk.
- Facco, F. L. et al. (2017). "Association between sleep-disordered breathing and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and gestational diabetes mellitus." Obstetrics & Gynecology, 129(1), 31-41. PubMed 27926645. Documents pregnancy-specific sleep disordered breathing risks.
- Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. (2024). Sleep and Pregnancy. sogc.org