Obstructive sleep apnea syndrom during pregnancy: prevalence of main symptoms and relationship with pregnancy induced-hypertension and intra-uterine growth retardation

Objective. - To investigate the frequency of main symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrom (OSAS) and their relationship with Pregnancy Induced-Hypertension (PIH) as well as Intrauterine Growth Retardation (IGR) as suggested by recent studies. Methodology. - Four hundred (and) thirty-eight enquiry forms completed during post-partum period were analysed, after exclusion of multiple pregnancies. Collected data were demographic characteristics, obstetrical events, sleep disorders during last trimester, screening of snoring and vigilance troubles with an Epworth score. Results. - Forty-five percentages of the patients reported to have habitual snoring during pregnancy. Among these, 85% were non-snorers before pregnancy. Daytime somnolence concerned 84,5% of the population with an Epworth score significatively increased (P < 0,000 1). The prevalence of PIH was found to be 4,5%, with two apparently independent risk factors: the body mass index (OR = 1, 1) and an association between snoring and increased vigilance trouble (OR = 2,6). No statistical difference was found concerning IGR. Conclusions. - SAS symptoms are frequent during pregnancy and snoring appears to be linked with PIH. However, polysomnographic data are not yet sufficient to explain pathophysiological mechanisms and find relevant diagnostic markers during pregnancy. (c) 2006 Elsevier SAS.