Good night's sleep vital for expectant mothers - expert

When you are pregnant, especially during the third trimester, getting a good night's sleep can feel like a game of hide-and-seek, frustratingly out of reach when you need it most.

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But quality rest is essential for the health of mom and baby.

Dr Mokgohloe Phasha, an obstetrician-gynaecologist practicing at Netcare Park Lane Hospital in Parktown, Johannesburg, stresses the importance of sleep during pregnancy.

New research suggests there may be lasting developmental effects for children of mothers significantly sleep-deprived during pregnancy, she said.

"Sleep disturbance occurs commonly in pregnancy, although it is often under-reported as women tend to accept it as the norm.