Restless Leg Syndrome is described as the uncontrollable urge to move your legs to relieve deep tingling, crawling, or burning sensations. While little research has been done on Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) in pregnancy, some researchers estimate it to occur in up to 20% of pregnant women during their last trimester of pregnancy.

The symptoms generally manifest themselves while you are at rest, like trying to fall asleep or sitting at a desk. While moving around will temporarily relieve symptoms, they will return as soon as you try to rest again. This is a leading cause of sleep problems and fatigue in pregnancy.

Causes of Restless Legs During Pregnancy

There is no known cause for RLS in pregnancy, but certain factors will put you at greater risk for developing the symptoms.

The biggest risk factor is having immediate family members who have suffered from RLS, as half of all pregnant sufferers have the syndrome in their immediate family. Some other theories summarizing why pregnant women suffer from restless leg syndrome include the hormonal changes that occur in pregnancy, iron deficiency, circulatory changes, and folate deficiencies.

Treatment of Restless Legs During Pregnancy

Most of the traditional treatments for RLS are not safe for pregnant women, including most prescription medications. However, iron supplements often prove to relieve symptoms—even in women who are not iron deficient. Drinking caffeine or taking antihistamines can make the symptoms much worse or more frequent, so these substances should be avoided.

It also helps to stay active until you’re ready for bed, rather than relaxing (by sitting or laying down) near bedtime. The longer you are inactive the worse the symptoms become, so waiting until you’re ready to sleep before you lay down will increase your chance of falling asleep and staying asleep. Massages, stretches, breathing or relaxation exercises, hot baths, or cold packs may also help relieve the symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome in pregnancy. For most women, the symptoms will disappear shortly after delivery.