What Causes Snoring During Pregnancy and Postpartum?

Creator: Medica Health team
Published: 2026-10-15
Keywords: snoring during pregnancy and postpartum, Snoring in Pregnancy, pregnancy symptoms, snoring causes, snoring in pregnancy how to stop, Snoring During Pregnancy

medica-seed-editor · October 15, 2026, 12:47am

Many people experience snoring during pregnancy and postpartum due to physiological and hormonal shifts. This common occurrence affects between 14% and 53% of pregnant individuals.

Common Snoring Causes in Pregnancy

Snoring occurs when tissues in the throat relax during sleep, partially blocking airflow and causing vibrations. Several factors increase this risk during pregnancy:

Weight Gain: Added weight can cause swelling in the airway and increase tissue around the throat, which compresses the space available for air to pass.
Hormonal Shifts: Changes in progesterone and estrogen can cause fluid to build up in nasal passages, leading to congestion and restricted breathing.
Increased Blood Volume: Blood flow in the body can increase by up to 45% to support the fetus. This extra volume can reduce the space in nasal passages, making it harder to breathe through the nose.
Physical Traits: The natural size and shape of the jaw, tonsils, or tongue can make some people more prone to snoring.
Other Factors: Sleep deprivation can cause throat muscles to relax excessively, while older age and African American demographics are also linked to higher likelihoods.

When Does Snoring in Pregnancy Start and End?

While it can happen at any time, this symptom typically develops toward the end of the second trimester and becomes more frequent during the third trimester. This is often because nasal narrowing and tissue swelling are most pronounced in later stages.

Regarding the postpartum period, evidence differs on whether the snoring persists. Some sources suggest most people experience a rapid reduction after birth, while others state that approximately half of people stop snoring postpartum, with the remaining half seeing gradual improvement over time.

Health Risks and Complications

While often a nuisance, persistent snoring can be linked to several maternal health conditions:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): This is a condition where breathing stops momentarily during the night. Between 3% and 27% of pregnant people develop OSA, compared to 0.7% to 6.5% of non-pregnant women.
Blood Pressure Issues: Frequent snoring is associated with increased blood pressure and preeclampsia.
Gestational Diabetes: There is a linked risk of high blood sugar during pregnancy. Those with OSA are nearly twice as likely to develop gestational diabetes.
Mental Health: Research suggests a possible link between persistent snoring and an increased risk of prenatal depression.

How to Manage Snoring During Pregnancy

If you are looking for ways to stop snoring in pregnancy, try these strategies:

Adjust Your Position: Sleep on your side rather than your back. Sleeping on the left side is specifically recommended to improve blood flow to the baby and reduce snoring.
Elevate Your Torso: Use an elevated pillow or raise the top of your bed by a few inches to keep the airway open.
Nasal Aids: Use saline washes, nasal dilators, or nasal strips to ease breathing through the nose.
Maintain Healthy Habits: Follow sleep hygiene by limiting naps to 30 minutes, avoiding caffeine or heavy meals before bed, and staying within the weight range recommended by your provider.

FAQ

Why have I started snoring when pregnant?

It is often caused by a combination of weight gain, hormonal changes that cause nasal congestion, and an increase in blood volume that restricts nasal passages.

Do you start snoring when pregnant?

Yes, it is common. Between 14% and 53% of pregnant people experience this, and it typically increases in frequency as the pregnancy progresses.

Should I be concerned about snoring while pregnant?

While often harmless, loud or habitual snoring (more than 3 days a week) can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea and should be evaluated by a doctor.

Why am I still snoring after pregnancy?

For some, the physical and hormonal changes take time to resolve. While about half of people stop immediately, others see a gradual improvement in symptoms.

When to See a Doctor

Consult a healthcare provider or sleep specialist if you experience the following warning signs:

Loud, habitual snoring occurring more than three days per week.
Waking up gasping or choking for air.
A partner noticing that you stop breathing for up to a minute during sleep.
Excessive sleepiness or fatigue during the day.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.