Melatonin, a naturally occurring hormone which regulates sleep cycles, is frequently sold as a nutritional supplement and naturopathic remedy. Products made with melatonin are generally safe when used in healthy adults for short periods of time. However, women who are pregnant or nursing should not use it. Consult your health care provider before using any drug or supplement during pregnancy.
Function
Melatonin regulates many functions within the human body. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the pineal gland in your brain secretes melatonin in response to darkness. This regulates the circadian rhythm, or the "biological clock," which governs cycles of sleep and wakefulness. Additionally, melatonin helps to regulate female reproductive hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and prolactin, and may affect the menstrual cycle. Melatonin's role in pregnancy is poorly understood and under-researched.
Benefits
Melatonin demonstrates promise as a holistic treatment for a variety of diseases and conditions. The UMMC reports melatonin can ease symptoms of insomnia, jet lag, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, prostate cancer, breast cancer, menopause-related discomforts and withdrawal from some addictive drugs. Melatonin may also help to prevent or treat sunburn, seizures and irritable bowel syndrome. Many of melatonin's benefits are supported only by theory and limited scientific study. Consult your health care provider before using melatonin to treat any condition, particularly during pregnancy.
Effect on Fertility
If used prior to conception, melatonin may prevent pregnancy by interfering with ovulation and menstruation. The UMMC states melatonin can reduce a woman's fertility, making conception less likely. Melatonin may hinder ovulation, or the release of eggs from the ovaries, and may cause menstrual abnormalities. Do not take melatonin if you are trying to conceive, because it may decrease your chances of becoming pregnant.
Effect on Fetal Development
No studies have investigated melatonin's effect on an unborn baby's development. The National Institutes of Health regards melatonin as "possibly unsafe" for use during pregnancy, also indicating that it may be dangerous to young children. The NIH suggests melatonin may interfere with the development of reproductive hormones. In theory, melatonin supplementation can also affect the sleep/wake cycle of a fetus, leading to sleeping problems in the newborn.
Warning
Although there is no conclusive evidence that melatonin supplements can harm a developing fetus, it is prudent to avoid melatonin during every stage of gestation. In general, you should only use drugs and supplements during pregnancy if the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Consult your obstetrician or midwife before using melatonin or any other supplement. Always tell your health care provider about any discomforts you experience during pregnancy.
Member Comments