What Are Some Safe Sleep Medications During Pregnancy?

Insomnia is an issue facing many pregnant women. According to John Larsen, professor of obstetrics, gynecology and genetics at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., there really is no sleeping aid for pregnant women suggested for long-term use. There are, however, some that can be used on occasions where sleep seems impossible, such as long car or airplane rides or when a cold or sinus infection is present. In cases where insomnia is not induced by the aforementioned factors, the authorization of sleep aids for pregnant women is rare.

Function

Sleep medications allow people suffering from insomnia the ability to fall asleep fast. While prescription and over-the-counter sleep aids may be safe for some people, a pregnant woman should only take those that her doctor recommends. She should never take over-the-counter medications without his advisement.

Types

Doxylamine (Unisom Sleep Tab) is the most prescribed short-term sleep aid by doctors for pregnant women. Other types of sleep aids include Benadryl and Ambien. For those looking for a holistic cure to insomnia during pregnancy, Dreamerz claims to contain all-natural ingredients.

Side Effects

Sleeping pills in pregnant women can cause a great deal of side effects. According to the experts at Epigee, a medical resource website, the mother can experience a wide range of symptoms including but not limited to: light-headedness, nausea, headaches, blurred vision and rashes. Drowsiness upon waking the next morning is the most common side effect of any sleep aid and can be profound in pregnant women.

Considerations

Research each product carefully to determine whether or not it is right for you. Be honest with your doctor about your activity level during the day if you are having trouble sleeping. The physician may suggest increasing your exercise to determine if this will help before prescribing any drug.

Warning

Although there are products that claim to contain safe and natural ingredients, it's very important to consult your physician before use of any sleep aid. These natural remedies are not tested by the FDA, and there isn't a sure-fire method of determining what ingredients are actually in them. Even in cases of doctor-approved sleep aids, there is always the chance that you or your baby can become addicted while pregnant or breast-feeding. To prevent this, make sure you only take them as prescribed and for a short period of time.

Resources

• All Natural Dreamerz
• What Are the Risks