Why does my breathing make noise occasionally while sleeping after giving birth, and what should I do about it?

Occasional noisy breathing during sleep after childbirth may be caused by improper sleeping posture, fatigue-induced airway relaxation, allergic rhinitis, upper respiratory tract infection, or acute bronchitis. Symptoms can be improved through adjusting sleeping position, adequate rest, and medication. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by difficulty breathing or coughing, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Improper sleeping posture: After childbirth, lying in an incorrect position may compress the airway or cause the tongue root to fall backward, obstructing the breathing passage and causing turbulent airflow that produces sound. It is recommended to adopt a side-lying position and elevate the upper body by 10–15 degrees to reduce airway compression and maintain unobstructed breathing.

2. Fatigue-induced airway muscle relaxation: Significant physical exhaustion after childbirth can lead to relaxed throat muscles. Airflow vibrating against these softened tissues during breathing causes noise, often accompanied by general fatigue. It is advised to ensure sufficient rest, avoid overexertion, and gradually restore strength to reduce the impact of muscle relaxation.

3. Allergic rhinitis: Exposure to allergens such as dust mites or mold from bedding after childbirth can trigger nasal mucosal congestion and swelling, leading to nasal obstruction. Noisy breathing occurs when airflow passes through the narrowed nasal passages, often accompanied by sneezing and runny nose. Patients may use medications such as mometasone furoate nasal spray, loratadine tablets, or cetirizine hydrochloride oral solution under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.

4. Upper respiratory tract infection: Reduced immunity after childbirth makes individuals susceptible to viral infections causing inflammation of the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa. Swelling narrows the airway, resulting in noisy breathing along with sore throat and nasal congestion. Under medical supervision, medications such as Ganmao Qingre Granules, Pudilan Xiaoyan Oral Liquid, or amoxicillin capsules may be used to alleviate symptoms.

5. Acute bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchi caused by bacterial or viral infection leads to increased airway secretions that block the airway. Airflow disturbing the mucus during breathing produces audible sounds, often accompanied by mild cough. As directed by a physician, patients may take ambroxol and clenbuterol oral solution, cefaclor capsules, or pediatric cough syrup to improve symptoms.

After childbirth, it's important to keep indoor areas clean and well-ventilated, regularly change bedding to minimize allergens, adjust clothing according to temperature changes to prevent colds, maintain a light and nutritionally balanced diet, and engage in appropriate mobility to strengthen physical condition and support recovery of respiratory health.