Melatonin In Pregnancy
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Melatonin During Pregnancy
Melatonin is a natural hormone secreted by the pineal gland in brain. Melatonin has effects on hormones, which influence a woman’s fertility and health during pregnancy. Using melatonin during pregnancy is considered unsafe, as it may cause hormonal disruptions and increase the risk of complications in pregnancy and childbirth.
The use of melatonin supplements during pregnancy may alter estrogen, progesterone and oxytocin levels, causing fetus developmental disorders. Such complications of pregnancy, as migraines and insomnia, may become most severe during the third trimester. Although, it is discovered that melatonin is a treatment for migraines and insomnia, its use during pregnancy may be dangerous. In addition, the use of melatonin during pregnancy may cause digestive system disorders and aggravate morning sickness.
Melatonin is used to relieve symptoms of jet lag, anxiety and sedative withdrawal. It may also increase the amount of platelets in blood. Melatonin supplements can be helpful for people suffering from fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, tinnitus and hot flashes.
Side Effects of Melatonin
Side effects of melatonin can be fatigue, nightmares, sleepwalking, gastrointestinal disorders, frequent urination and rash. Melatonin may also increase the risk of seizures. This side effect may cause serious consequences for children with neurological diseases. In addition, people taking melatonin supplements should take care while working with dangerous equipment and driving.
- The use of melatonin during pregnancy may also provoke daytime sleepiness, melancholy or depression, and may sometimes cause abdominal pains.
- Melatonin is not recommended for pregnant women, because of negative effects on newborns that are receiving melatonin from breast milk.
Babies of women taking melatonin supplements in the period of breast-feeding, may have signs of excessive sleepiness, poor muscle tone, vomiting, or bad coordination. A baby suffering from such symptoms requires urgent medical aid.
A pregnant woman, who intends to take melatonin, should consult her doctor about the possible risks or choose alternative medications. To deal with insomnia during pregnancy, it is advisable to do light exercises and avoid taking caffeine-containing products.
Effective methods on how to cure insomnia may be stress prevention, refusal of alcohol and minimization of use of computer and cell phone before sleep. It is recommended to inform your doctor about taking melatonin. Women taking melatonin during pregnancy should be observed carefully.