Poor maternal sleep in late pregnancy linked to higher child obesity risk

A recent study has identified a link between maternal sleep quality in the later stages of pregnancy and the growth trajectory of infants. Researchers found that mothers who reported poor sleep during the final trimester gave birth to babies who weighed less during the first six months of life but tended to weigh more by the time they reached one to two years of age.

The association was most pronounced among male infants and those born at term, suggesting that both sex and gestational age may influence how prenatal sleep disturbances affect post‑natal weight patterns. The findings highlight the potential long‑term impact of maternal sleep health on early childhood development and may inform future guidelines for prenatal care.