Prevalence of and Interventions for Prenatal Sleep Problems

• In Event: Integrative and Translational Approaches to Sleep Health During the Perinatal Period

Abstract

Sleep problems during pregnancy are common, however prevalence estimates range depending on trimester and method of assessment. Given the potential consequences for both maternal and infant health, it is imperative to provide effective evidence-based interventions for prenatal sleep problems. It is also important to consider prenatal sleep problems within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which lead to increased distress and limited access to services.
This presentation will first review meta-analyses and longitudinal studies on the prevalence of prenatal sleep quality and insomnia, conducted by our research team prior to the pandemic. Then associations of prenatal sleep problems (i.e., disturbance and impairment) with maternal mental health (i.e., anxiety and depression symptoms) and infant sleep (i.e., duration and difficulties) will be presented from the Pregnancy During the COVID-19 Pandemic cohort study (Giesbrecht et al., 2021). Finally, the results of a randomized controlled trial of Sleeping for Two (MacKinnon et al., 2021), a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia in pregnant women, will be discussed for maternal (i.e., sleep diary and actigraphy) and infant (i.e., duration and difficulties) sleep outcomes.
These findings suggest early intervention of sleep problems during pregnancy is crucial for optimizing maternal and infant outcomes.

Author

• Anna MacKinnon, University of Montreal
  Presenting Author