Is it Safe to Take Sleeping Pills when Pregnant?

Unfortunately, a great many pregnant women find themselves wrestling with insomnia at some point in their pregnancy.  So, they ask, can I take sleeping pills while I’m pregnant?  Many doctors are leery of prescribing sleep aids since they can be addictive, not just to the pregnant mother, but to the unborn child. If you mix sleeping pills and pregnancy you may find yourself with a newborn with a sleeping pill addiction.

If your insomnia is severe however, it would be reasonable to ask your doctor, can I take sleeping pills? You might find that even though your doctor is unwilling to provide you with a prescription medication, she might be comfortable recommending an over-the-counter remedy like Tylenol PM.

Diphenhydramine, the sedating component, is the active ingredient in Benadryl is considered a Class B medication, which means it has been shown to be safe for pregnant women based on animal studies, although no conclusive human trials have been conducted.  Unfortunately, there are no sleeping medications that are Class A, which means that reputable human studies have shown them to be safe for pregnant women and unborn babies.

While most doctors probably feel that sleeping pills and pregnancy are not a good combination, you may find there are some other things you can do to help you sleep better while you are pregnant.  Since part of your problem with sleep may have to do with your pregnant shape, try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees.  There are also a variety of body pillows specifically designed for pregnant women, so you may be able to find something that will make you a great deal more comfortable.

Sleeping pills and pregnancy don’t need to be the only way to go. An old, but effective home remedy to try is simply to drink a glass of warm milk before bed.  In addition, you may find that you can’t sleep well if you are hungry or feel you have low blood sugar.  This can be remedied by having a small, high-protein snack before bedtime.

You may find yourself wondering about sleeping pills and pregnancy; you might consider that you are having trouble sleeping because you are unable to relax properly.  Rather than taking a sedative, you might find it more effective and healthy to work on relaxation techniques.  Practicing yoga or getting regular massages can make a huge difference in how relaxed you feel. You can also practice some simple deep breathing techniques and work on progressive muscle relaxation to get yourself into a more positive state for sleep.

So, in answer to the question, can I take sleeping pills while pregnant, you may find your doctor saying no, or suggesting a mild over-the-counter remedy for a limited time. Since sleeping pills and pregnancy are not a good combination, you will need to look into some more natural methods to help you sleep.  However, you may find that these natural remedies are just as effective, and you don’t need to worry about harming your baby.