Less Sleep During Pregnancy Linked To Developmental Delays In Kids

Around four out of 10 pregnant women experience (Short Sleep Duration) SSD, according to previous research. AMINA FILKINS VIA PEXELS.

“>

Pregnant women who sleep less than seven hours a night may be harming their unborn baby, warns new research.

Moms-to-be who don’t get enough shut-eye are more likely to have children with developmental delays – with boys at particular risk, say scientists.

They explained that short sleep duration, or SSD, is defined as sleeping less than seven hours per night.

Pregnant women may have trouble sleeping due to several factors, including hormonal changes, discomfort, and frequent need to go to the toilet.

Around four out of 10 pregnant women experience SSD, according to previous research.

Scientists say those women may have a higher risk of impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, and gestational diabetes, and their children may be at higher risk of experiencing neurodevelopmental delays.

According to new research, children are slower to develop their social, emotional, behavioral, motor, cognitive, or speech skills.

Study lead author Doctor Peng Zhu said: “This study highlights the necessity of managing sleep health during pregnancy.

“By shedding light on the connection between maternal sleep during pregnancy and children’s neurodevelopment, our study empowers families with knowledge that can shape healthier pregnancy habits and contribute to the well-being of the next generation.

“Improving sleep habits during pregnancy may prevent or reduce the risk of neurodevelopmental issues in children.”

The researchers analyzed sleep data from more than 7,000 mother-child pairs from three different hospitals in China.