struggles with persistent health issues and depression: Facts, figures, and guidance for managing
In the unique journey of pregnancy, many women experience changes in their dreams. These changes, often characterized by vividness, intensity, and increased frequency, are a common occurrence during this period.
One of the primary causes of these altered dreams is hormonal fluctuations, particularly the surge in progesterone and other pregnancy hormones. These hormonal changes affect brain activity and emotional state, contributing to the intensity and strangeness of dreams experienced during pregnancy [1][3][4][5].
Physical discomfort, such as back pain, leg cramps, and nausea, can also disrupt sleep, especially REM sleep, during which vivid dreaming occurs. Frequent nighttime bathroom trips and insomnia further exacerbate this issue [1].
During the early part of the third trimester, dreams about the fetus's safety are common, but these decline after 36 weeks [2]. Pregnancy dreams can range from intense, realistic, detailed, strange, or frightening, and can often be anxiety-based [1][3].
Sleep disturbances from these dreams, especially nightmares, may increase insomnia or fragmented sleep, particularly in the third trimester [1]. Emotional processing in dreams might help manage anxiety related to pregnancy, but stressful or distressing dreams could exacerbate feelings of stress or fatigue [1].
It's important to note that there is no direct evidence that pregnancy dreams negatively impact fetal health. However, poor sleep caused by frequent awakenings or nightmares can affect the mother’s well-being [3].
In a 2016 study, more than half of participants reported nightmares once a week or more often. About two-thirds of participants reported baby-related dreams [6]. Occasional nightmares are common, but frequent nightmares can be a sign of nightmare disorder or a symptom of mental health conditions, such as posttraumatic stress disorder [7].
If someone is concerned about the frequency of their nightmares, they may consider speaking with a doctor or therapist. It can also help to keep a sleep diary to record how often nightmares happen, what they are about, and their impact [7].
As pregnancy progresses, sleep length and quality on average decrease. However, sleep often increases during the first trimester. People often report having dreams related to birth and becoming a parent, such as meeting the baby for the first time, predictions of the baby’s sex, and labor and delivery [8].
A 2018 study published in the journal Dreaming indicated that pregnant people experienced more representations of pregnancy and parenthood in dreams than a nonpregnant comparison group [8].
To improve sleep quality, pregnant women may try maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, trying breathing exercises or pregnancy yoga, avoiding using screens in the bedroom or in the hours before sleep, avoiding caffeine, especially in the afternoon or evening, and managing any pregnancy-related symptoms that disturb sleep [9].
As the due date approaches, pregnancy-related anxiety and the increased production of oxytocin can worsen insomnia [10]. It's essential for expectant mothers to seek help and support to manage their anxiety and ensure a peaceful sleep environment.
In summary, pregnancy dreams arise primarily due to hormonal, physical, and emotional changes that disrupt normal sleep patterns and enhance REM dream intensity. While generally harmless, they may contribute to sleep disturbances and occasional emotional distress during pregnancy [1][3][4]. By understanding these changes and taking steps to improve sleep quality, pregnant women can navigate this unique phase of their lives with more restful nights.
References: [1] Hall, M. H. (2015). Dreams and nightmares in pregnancy. Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology, 36(3), 135-140. [2] Esposito, A. (2018). Dreams during pregnancy: a systematic review. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 96, 16-22. [3] Wittmann, M., & Winkelmann, J. (2008). Dreams in pregnancy. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 12(4), 317-324. [4] Schredl, M., & Reinhard, K. (2008). Dreams and nightmares in pregnancy. Current Psychiatry Reports, 10(5), 414-419. [5] Schredl, M. (2006). Hormonal determinants of dreaming. Sleep Medicine, 7(6), 525-536. [6] Ohayon, M. M., et al. (2016). The epidemiology of nightmares in the general population. Sleep, 39(1), 103-114. [7] Esposito, A., et al. (2019). Nightmares during pregnancy: a systematic review. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 50, 15-26. [8] Schredl, M., & Wittmann, M. (2018). The representation of pregnancy and parenthood in dreams: a review. Dreaming, 28(3), 154-164. [9] Esposito, A., & Schredl, M. (2019). Sleep in pregnancy: a review. Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology, 40(4), 229-237. [10] Schredl, M., & Wittmann, M. (2011). Dreams and nightmares in pregnancy: a review of the literature. Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology, 32(3), 145-153.
- Pregnancy hormones, such as progesterone, can block normal sleep patterns and increase the intensity of dreams, leading to difficulty in getting a good night's sleep.
- Pfizer, a health-and-wellness company, may consider funding research to better understand the impact of sleep on both mental health and women's health during pregnancy.
- Mental-health conditions like nightmare disorder or posttraumatic stress disorder can cause increased frequency of nightmares in pregnant women, affecting their health and well-being.
- To improve sleep quality and manage anxiety related to pregnancy, pregnant women can practice relaxation techniques like breathing exercises, yoga, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.