Can I Take Melatonin While Pregnant: Sleep problems are very common during pregnancy. Melatonin can be a useful supplement for certain sleep condition like pregnancy insomnia. However, there is no strong evidence to recommend its use during pregnancy.
If you are pregnant, you may have noticed that you are experiencing some difficulties with sleep. It could be due to lack of melatonin. In this article we will provide an overview of whether melatonin is safe or not during pregnancy. Keep reading to learn.
Table of Contents
What Is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a hormone generate naturally from the pineal gland in the brain that helps regulate your body’s sleep and wake cycles. Melatonin is also available as tablets or capsules. People commonly use this capsule for sleep disorders like insomnia and jet lag.
Functions of Melatonin
Melatonin plays an important role in the body. According to a publication in the academic journal Reproductive Sciences, melatonin promotes labor together with oxytocin.
Melatonin helps improve immunity and control appetite. Also it tends to increase its serum value at night. It can easily cross the placenta and enter the fetal circulation.
Can I Take Melatonin While Pregnant?
There is no such evidence regarding the long-term use of melatonin supplements. However, they seem appear to be safe when used sort-term in the general population. Doctors still don’t have enough information about what side effects it might have on a developing fetus.
However, our brain produces melatonin naturally from the pineal gland to regulate body’s sleep and wake cycles. Melatonin is also required for fetal development. But if it doesn’t produce enough, a supplement is perfect to bring our brain back to its required levels.
Therefore, a healthcare provider may recommended a certain amount of melatonin during pregnancy. The benefits of melatonin during pregnancy can increase the risks. So consult with a healthcare professional before taking supplement like melatonin.
Melatonin and Breastfeeding
Both – melatonin and breast milk are produced naturally by the body and are transmitted to babies through breast milk. Research shows that our bodies produce higher levels of melatonin in the evening, which is helpful for newborns.
Side Effects of Melatonin
Above we found the answer for “Can I Take Melatonin While Pregnant”. – Now we will discuss the possible side effects that can be triggered by melatonin. The side effects are as follows – Nausea, Drowsiness, Dizziness, Headache.
Alternatives to Melatonin During Pregnancy
There are some of the alternatives to melatonin that have been safe for a pregnant people. According Dr. Gaither, alternatives like biofeedback methodologies might be safer. However, you should discuss with a doctor to determine the best option for you and your baby.
What Can I Take to Sleep While Pregnant?
According some research, 78% of pregnant women experience sleep disturbance, which may be higher by the third trimester. However, there are some alternatives for pregnant women who want to improve their sleep quality without any supplements or medicine.
Can Babies Take Melatonin?
Some studies have shown that melatonin may be helpful for short-term sleep support in older children, but the long-term effects of taking it in children have not been good.
Tips to Boost Melatonin Naturally
- Engage in regular physical activity because it may help regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
- Dim the lights and turn off luminous screens for one hour before going to sleep.
- Always use a pillow that feel comfortable.
- You should manage stress as it can reduce melatonin production. Therefore, do yoga, or spend time in nature for relaxation.
