Ambien During Pregnancy - Safe? (Kinda long)

Question

I'm a FTM at 6w. Prior to learning of my pregnancy, I'd been taking Ambien. My PCP told me to take the Ambien only "as needed" for the remainder of pregnancy, if I found I really needed it.

Well, problem is I do need it! I've tried NOT taking it and I've tried to reduce how much I take, but I absolutely can't fall asleep. I haven't slept in days and I'm getting desperate.

What are the risks exactly with taking Ambien during pregnancy? Are there any other sleep meds considered safer?

Answer

Talk to your dr about valarian(sp?) root? You could try a hypnosis sleep CD, I've recently found some that have really helped with my sleep

Answer

It depends what kind of insomnia you have. If you have trouble FALLING asleep, I would recommend asking about Valerian root and if its safe for the fetus or something safe to help you fall asleep. If you have issues staying asleep, like mid cycle insomnia, then talk about how often you can take your ambien. No one can truly give medical advice unless they're a doctor. Good luck <3

Answer

For almost 10 years, I took Ativan and Ambien every night to go to sleep. I never thought I'd be able to sleep without them.

I had a really positive experience with a cognitive behavioral sleep therapy. I also benefitted from sleep tracking. The Sleepio app is a good substitute if sleep therapy isn't an option -- it uses a lot of the same techniques my sleep therapist taught me. I had to work on tiring myself out enough to sleep soundly, and I also had to stop doing things in bed other than sleeping or sex. I spend 30-60 minutes before bed winding down -- herbal tea with honey, dimmed lights, lavender candles.

I also realized that part of my sleep trouble was anxiety -- I'd get anxious that I wouldn't fall asleep, so I'd keep myself awake. These days, I'll occasionally take .5 mg Xanax if I'm having trouble sleeping and it almost always works.

Ambien During Pregnancy - Safe? (Kinda long)

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