Sleep deprivation refers to the loss of sleep caused by self-inflicted or external factors. There is increasing evidence that pregnancy is prone to sleep deprivation, which not only disrupts maternal functions but also affects offspring′s cognitive function. This article reviews the effects of sleep deprivation during pregnancy on offspring cognition and its underlying mechanisms, in order to establish a foundation for developing scientifically sound sleep strategies during pregnancy and to provide clinical insights for improving the neurodevelopment and cognitive function of offspring.