Can You Take Melatonin During Pregnancy?

Those who are pregnant might consider taking melatonin for sleep problems, which are common during pregnancy.

Studies show that melatonin use among pregnant populations is somewhat common at about 4 percent. Concerns about using melatonin while pregnant and breastfeeding might be due to the results of animal research. Data gathered from human clinical trials that used exogenous melatonin did not yield adverse events or considerable safety concerns.

How Melatonin Works

Melatonin is the main player when it comes to the body’s biological clock. It is often known as the sleep hormone.

Melatonin is produced naturally in the body by the pineal gland and then released into the bloodstream. Production increases during the hours of darkness, setting the table for a healthy night of sleep.

Melatonin supplements have gained in popularity in recent years for those who have trouble sleeping or experience irregular sleep patterns. Melatonin and sleep have become somewhat synonymous with each other.

Current research supports melatonin as a safe sleep supplement for both children and adults.

Melatonin & Pregnancy

Several different sleep-related disorders are possible during pregnancy. The most common sleep disorders during pregnancy include the following:

• Insomnia
• Restless legs syndrome
• Night-time gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Obstructive sleep apnea

Insomnia is quite common during pregnancy, and it is often the result of hormonal changes. Those who are pregnant may reach a point where they are looking for safe and effective ways to promote sleep.

Potential Side Effects of Melatonin

Although melatonin is considered non-toxic, there are still mild symptoms and side effects associated with taking higher doses as well as extended-release formulations.

Adverse effects from taking high doses of melatonin include the following:

• Confusion
• Nausea
• Daytime sleepiness
• Headaches
• Depression
• Irritability
• Anxiety

Historically, physicians and health care professionals have encouraged individuals to avoid melatonin use during pregnancy due to a lack of safety profile. This is more about the lack of studies conducted than adverse events being reported.

Melatonin Alternatives

Although melatonin is produced by the body naturally, those who are pregnant may not wish to take any sort of supplements during pregnancy, especially if they would like to avoid potential side effects like depression and anxiety.

Essential oils can be a safe and effective alternative to melatonin. Lavender, rosemary, and eucalyptus oils all have calming and relaxing properties.

Although ginkgo biloba is considered a melatonin alternative, it should be avoided in close proximity to labor due to its antiplatelet properties, which could affect bleeding during labor. The safety profile of ginkgo biloba is also not known during the lactation stage due to a lack of studies and testing.

Keeping a consistent sleep schedule and incorporating deep relaxation techniques can help promote a better night of sleep. This should be the first course of action when dealing with insomnia during pregnancy.

Cognitive behavioral therapy can also help improve sleep and reduce overall anxiety and depression.

Melatonin & Pregnancy FAQS