The Relationship between Snoring and Preeclampsia: A Case-Control Study

Background and Objective: The prevalence of snoring and sleepiness increases during pregnancy and affects maternal health and pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the association between snoring during pregnancy and the risk of preeclampsia. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was performed among150 pregnant women with preeclampsia and 150 healthy women referred to health centers and academic hospitals of Mashhad, Iran. Data collection tools included the information form regarding demographic characteristics, clinical signs, and laboratory findings. To evaluate snoring and its severity, the related question in Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was applied. Statistical analysis of data was performed by independent t-test, Mann-Whitney, chi-square test, and logistic regression model. Results: There was significant association between snoring and preeclampsia (P 0.001), so that the mean and standard deviation (SD) of snoring (Likert Scale of 0-3) in patients with preeclampsia was 0.6 ± 1.1, and in non-preeclamptic women was 0.4 ± 0.9. The chance of preeclampsia in women with snoring was 1.73 times more than those without snoring [Odds ratio (OR) = 1.73, confidence interval (CI) 95%: 1.29-2.25]. Conclusion: Snoring is a predicting factor of preeclampsia. Thus, midwives and health workers attention during pregnancy is recommended.