Tinnitus and hearing issues are reported to be more common among pregnant women, with about one in three experiencing symptoms such as ringing, buzzing, or pulsing in the ears. This is a higher rate compared to non-pregnant women, where roughly one in ten are affected. These auditory symptoms during pregnancy are often linked to hormonal and circulatory changes.
Hormonal fluctuations—particularly increased levels of estrogen and progesterone—can alter fluid balance and blood flow within the inner ear. These physiological changes may lead to temporary hearing problems that typically resolve after childbirth.
Other medical conditions can also contribute to tinnitus or hearing loss during pregnancy. High blood pressure is a notable example; it can cause both tinnitus and hearing loss due to the sensitivity of the inner ear to blood flow changes. High blood pressure during pregnancy may signal preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome, which require prompt medical attention.
Some pregnant women report pulsatile tinnitus, where the sound in their ears matches their heartbeat. This symptom should be discussed with a healthcare provider, as it may indicate elevated blood pressure.
Iron-deficiency anemia is another risk for pregnant women, potentially leading to hearing issues including tinnitus. The body’s need for iron increases during pregnancy, so maintaining an iron-rich diet is recommended.
Pregnancy can also make individuals more susceptible to headaches or migraines, which may increase the risk of developing tinnitus or sound sensitivity (hyperacusis). Frequent headaches should be reported to a doctor for proper management.
A suppressed immune system during pregnancy raises vulnerability to colds and sinus infections, which can sometimes result in temporary hearing loss requiring treatment.
Earwax buildup can block the ear canal and lead to hearing difficulties or tinnitus; this condition is usually easily treatable either at home or by a physician.
Chronic stress and lack of sleep—common experiences during pregnancy—may aggravate existing tinnitus or even contribute directly due to associated increases in blood pressure.
Jaw problems such as TMJ disorder occur more frequently among pregnant women because of hormonal changes and stress. TMJ-related issues can cause somatic tinnitus or sensations of clogged ears; dental consultation might help if this is suspected.
Certain medications taken during pregnancy have been linked with side effects like hearing loss and dizziness. Rarely, some women develop otosclerosis—a condition involving abnormal bone growth in the ear—which has been associated with hormonal surges in pregnancy.
Healthcare professionals recommend regular prenatal care and open communication regarding any sudden changes in hearing or persistent ringing in the ears: "It's vital that you receive regular prenatal care and discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider. Any sudden hearing loss or pulsing tinnitus should be treated promptly."
If a pregnant woman hears her own heartbeat in her ear—a sign known as pulsatile tinnitus—it should always be reported: "Hearing your own heartbeat is not normal, and should be reported to your doctor."
Temporary auditory symptoms generally improve after childbirth but could signal underlying health concerns needing attention from a medical professional.
