The risks of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)  are greater for female patients who are pregnant with multiple babies. The research conducted at Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola, NY showed a higher prevalence of rapid eye movement related OSA in women who were pregnant with twins, triplets or more babies than in women who were not pregnant or carrying only one child.

The researchers attributed the differences to functional changes in the upper airway induced by repetitive exposure to pregnancy hormones. They felt that identifying women who might carry multiple babies would allow for an earlier diagnosis and treatment of the OSA. Unfortunately, no large scale studies measuring the effects of pregnancy on breathing during sleep. Hopefully this data will be available soon.

OSA, obstructive sleep apnea, occurs when the sleeper stops breathing during sleep. This can occur many times each hour and the stoppages can last from a few seconds or longer. Treatment for obstructive sleep apnea may include CPAP or an oral appliance. Oral appliance therapy is highly effective and avoids the problems associated with the masks and hoses associated with CPAP.

For more information about oral appliance therapy or the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea please contact Dr. Mark Levy at StoneRidge Dental Care in Gahanna, OH at 614-476-6696 today.