Can I Take Melatonin While Pregnant?

While melatonin is a popular supplement for certain sleep conditions like jet lag, there isn't strong evidence to recommend its use during pregnancy.

Researchers don't know enough about how higher melatonin levels in the body can affect a developing human fetus. Fortunately, there are other pregnancy-safe sleep aid options that you can discuss with a healthcare provider.

This article provides an overview of whether melatonin is safe during pregnancy and outlines alternatives for sleep support throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Melatonin and Pregnancy: Safe or Unsafe?

Overall, experts don't know much about the long-term use of melatonin supplements. Though they appear to be safe when used short term in the general population, there isn't enough information to conclude how safe they might be in pregnant people.

Although the melatonin naturally produced in the body is necessary for fetal development, there are some potential concerns about how it may affect a growing baby when used as a supplement. For example:

• Melatonin supplement dosages are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
• The body's melatonin levels rise naturally during pregnancy, so adding a melatonin supplement could make this level too high.
• Though it's unclear whether the results transfer to humans, some animal studies of melatonin supplementation during pregnancy showed a negative impact on a baby's weight, growth, and mortality.
  

Occasionally, a healthcare provider may recommend a certain amount of melatonin during pregnancy, such as for some people with preeclampsia.

In these specific instances, the benefits of melatonin during pregnancy may outweigh the risks, but that's not always the case. Speaking with a healthcare provider before starting a supplement like melatonin is essential.

What Can I Take to Sleep While Pregnant?

Some research shows that up to 78% of pregnant people experience sleep issues, which might be even higher by the third trimester. Fortunately, there are some alternative options for pregnant people looking to improve their sleep quality without medications or supplements.

Nondrug Pregnancy Sleep Options

To help manage your sleep cycle while pregnant, experts recommend the following:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia
• Good sleep hygiene habits, such as using supportive blankets and pillows and keeping a steady bedtime
• Acupuncture
• Yoga
• Relaxation and mindfulness practices

Additionally, an antihistamine sleep aid known as Unisom (doxylamine) is often prescribed to pregnant people for help treating short-term insomnia. A healthcare provider can help determine whether this medication is best for you.

Melatonin and Breastfeeding

Melatonin—both the natural hormone produced by the body and the supplement form—is transmitted to babies through breast milk.

Evidence shows the melatonin levels your body produces are slightly higher in the evening, which is helpful for newborns.

Though your breastfeeding baby will inevitably be exposed to the body's naturally produced melatonin, there's not enough research on whether taking the supplement while nursing is safe. Experts recommend erring on the side of caution and avoiding melatonin supplements while breastfeeding.

Summary

While melatonin is a popular OTC sleep supplement, more research is needed on the impact melatonin may have on a developing fetus. Because of this, it's a good idea to check with a healthcare provider before starting melatonin to ensure it's right for you. If it's not, alternative sleep aid options may help balance the sleep issues that often come with pregnancy.