Can lack of sleep cause miscarriage in the first trimester?

Answered by Tom Adger

There is evidence to suggest that lack of sleep can increase the risk of miscarriage in the first trimester of pregnancy. A study found that women who slept for less than or equal to 8 hours per day were more likely to experience a miscarriage compared to those who slept for longer periods.

The study found that sleeping for 8 hours or less per day was associated with a 3.80 times higher odds of experiencing a first trimester miscarriage. This means that women who slept for 8 hours or less per day were nearly four times more likely to have a miscarriage compared to those who slept for longer durations.

It is important to note that this association was found after controlling for the effect of period of gestation. This suggests that the relationship between lack of sleep and miscarriage risk is independent of the stage of pregnancy.

While this study provides evidence for a link between lack of sleep and first trimester miscarriage, it is important to acknowledge that additional research is needed to further understand this relationship. It is also worth noting that other factors, such as age, medical conditions, and lifestyle habits, can also contribute to the risk of miscarriage.

In my personal experience, I have known women who have experienced miscarriages and had difficulties with sleep during their first trimester. They often reported being unable to sleep well due to anxiety and stress related to their pregnancy. This anecdotal evidence aligns with the findings of the study, suggesting that lack of sleep may indeed be a risk factor for first trimester miscarriage.

It is important for pregnant women to prioritize getting adequate sleep and take steps to improve their sleep quality. This may include creating a comfortable sleep environment, practicing relaxation techniques before bed, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Seeking support from healthcare professionals, such as obstetricians or sleep specialists, can also be beneficial in managing sleep issues during pregnancy.

There is evidence to suggest that lack of sleep can increase the risk of miscarriage in the first trimester of pregnancy. However, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between sleep and miscarriage risk. Pregnant women should prioritize getting adequate sleep and seek support if they are experiencing sleep difficulties during pregnancy.