Pregnant women sleeping 10 hours or longer, similarly, were at a greater risk of the complication, although it did not reach statistical significance.

“Our findings, however, are generally consistent with reports documenting associations between habitual sleep duration, blood pressure values, and hypertension in men, nonpregnant women, adolescents, and children,” said lead researcher Michelle Williams.

Insufficient sleep, particularly in the third trimester, alters blood pressure levels in pregnant women through affecting the metabolic and neuroendocrine system of the body.

The condition can subsequently contribute to either pregnancy-induced hypertension without proteinuria or preeclampsia, the study found.

Scientists believe their finding would motivate expectant moms to improve their lifestyle, particularly the sleep habits, in order to lower their risk of developing any pregnancy-related complications.

“Women generally already know that they’re eating well and getting enough exercise for two during pregnancy. Our study suggests that women should also aspire to sleep well for two,” Williams added.