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All sorts of people snore for all sorts of reasons.  Snoring can be caused by weight, muscle tone, airway obstructions and a host of other medical conditions.  Men, women and children are all prone to snoring.

When snoring occurs during pregnancy, however, there may be a cause for concern.  Snoring during pregnancy is sometimes caused by a condition called 'hypertension'.  This potentially devastating condition can affect the health and even pose a threat of death for both mother and child.   Hypertension can also cause developmental delays in the unborn child.

Snoring during pregnancy can also be a warning of a pre-eclampsia.  This condition causes hypertension, swelling of the limbs and protein in the urine. Snoring can also be a sign of toxemia. Excessive sleeping during the day is another indicator of potential problems.

During pregnancy there is a marked increase in the production of blood, as blood provides nourishment for the growing fetus.  The blood vessels throughout the woman's body also increase in size.  Problems can occur as the blood vessels of the nose and throat increase in size, prompting a bloating of the mucus membranes.  Obstructions may result, making it more difficult for the woman to breathe, and causing a snoring condition.

Studies have shown that the frequency of snoring increases during pregnancy. It has been suggested that by the last three months of pregnancy, twenty four percent of women will snore.  Women who snored before pregnancy will experience a marked increase in the volume. Eleven percent of pregnant women experience excessive weight gain, which in itself will cause snoring.  Women who already snored were found to experience more snoring, as well as severe swelling of the hands, feet, legs 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.

Pregnant women can be more susceptible to increases in breathing problems, particularly upper respiratory issues.  As they gain weight, these women experience greater pressure on the diaphragm, restricting breathing.

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.