Is Restless Leg Syndrome during pregnancy harmful to my baby?

No, RLS itself does not harm your baby. However, it can eventually affect your quality of sleep and overall comfort, indirectly impacting your well-being during pregnancy. Managing the symptoms with your doctor’s guidance helps ensure a healthy pregnancy journey for you and your baby as well.

What are some safe ways to relieve RLS symptoms at home during pregnancy?

Gentle leg massages, stretching before bedtime, warm baths, staying hydrated, and avoiding caffeine can help ease RLS symptoms. Always consult your doctor before starting any new remedy to ensure it's safe during pregnancy.

Restless Leg Syndrome in Pregnancy: Causes, Relief, and Safe Remedies

Pregnancy can be a meaningful experience, bringing change not just for you, but for those around you in many different ways. However, this 9-month-long journey comes along with many emotional, physical, and mental changes. One is the Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), a common occurrence in your pregnancy journey.

Understanding Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless Leg syndrome is experienced by 1 out of every 3 pregnant women. If you have pregnancy-related hormonal fluctuations in your body, the urge to move your legs can increase or decrease, giving rise to the syndrome.

You are usually advised to rest your feet by supporting them while sitting and lying. However, hormonal fluctuations should be treated under your doctor’s supervision. Iron deficiency is another contributing factor to this syndrome, and in some cases, genetic influences may lead to a strong urge to move your legs, especially when at rest.

The best-recommended way to get rid of this creepy-crawly feeling is to shake or move your legs. The feeling subsides instantly after this, in some cases. But sensations in the body get hard to control for many others. Also, the sensation leads to you waking up in the middle of the night.

Causes Of Restless Leg Syndrome

RLS is a common condition during pregnancy, but it shouldn't be ignored if you experience the symptoms. Treatment often involves simple steps you can take at home, along with guidance from your doctor.

It’s important to understand the possible causes of RLS. While there’s no definitive reason why these sensations tend to occur at night, several theories and beliefs attempt to explain it.

Body Imbalance

One possible reason for restless leg syndrome is an imbalance in the brain’s dopamine levels. This chemical is responsible for keeping muscle movements smooth and ensuring evenness.

Body Deficiency

Restless leg syndrome in your pregnancy is a result of iron deficiency and also hints at folic acid deficiency in the body. Evidence shows that if you take tests and see a rise in the estrogen levels, that can also result in this syndrome and related sensations in the body.

Here’s a pro tip for you:

Massaging your legs, listening to calming music, or engaging in relaxing activities can help soothe your body and promote better sleep. However, be mindful of when and how you respond to sudden restlessness, improper timing, or overstimulation can sometimes worsen the irritation.

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, restless legs syndrome (RLS) has been associated with several pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia and an increased rate of Cesarean deliveries. That’s why timely diagnosis and proper treatment should never be overlooked.

What To Do For Treating Restless Leg Syndrome

Your pregnancy journey should not have any unnecessary pain or trouble. It is a life-changing experience; every day should be calm and comfortable for you.

So, it’s better to be cautious of any symptom you face, no matter how random. In some cases, restless leg syndrome can get worse.

If they are severe enough to disturb your sleep frequently at night, it’s high time to reach out to your doctor. Doctors usually recommend medicines and a routine filled with a diet rich in iron, folate, and vitamin B12.

The basic treatment for this syndrome can include the following:

Having a healthy routine consisting of pregnancy-friendly exercises.
Quit smoking. It is harmful to both you and your baby. It can also increase the risk of pregnancy complications during delivery.
Walking after dinner and stretching your legs before going to bed.
Have a warm bath or use heat pads for the legs, which can result in relaxation.
A soft massage on the legs can help, and you can also try to divert your mind by indulging in a good book or movie.

Assessment, Planning, Follow-ups, And Discussions

You can feel the symptoms of restless legs syndrome in other parts of the body, like your arms, too. Usually, with the symptoms, getting more than 2-3 hours of sound sleep in a single go becomes difficult. In your third trimester, you might find it difficult to reinitiate sleep after getting up.

According to research published by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, individuals who experienced the onset of restless legs syndrome (RLS) prior to pregnancy and reported moderate to severe symptoms were found to have a higher risk of developing both antenatal and postnatal depression. So, doctor consultations are always recommended.

Even if you start feeling better after doctor visits and any prescribed medication, it’s important to continue paying attention to your condition. A temporary relief from symptoms doesn’t always mean the issue has completely resolved, as it may return. That’s why regular follow-ups are encouraged, and it’s best to continue them until your doctor advises otherwise.

Does Restless Leg Syndrome Stay Postpartum?

You are not alone in this journey. Restless Leg Syndrome can affect anyone, even outside of pregnancy. If you experience it during pregnancy, the reassuring part is that the symptoms usually ease and eventually disappear after childbirth. It’s typically a temporary condition.

However, it's worth knowing that individuals who experience RLS during pregnancy may be more likely to encounter it again later in life.

Also, it’s important to monitor your water intake during pregnancy. Staying well-hydrated supports your baby’s development and helps reduce the risk of Restless Leg Syndrome. Dehydration can worsen the symptoms, so maintaining proper hydration is essential.

Additionally, it’s best to avoid diuretics during pregnancy, as they are generally not recommended. These include tea, coffee, energy drinks, chocolate, and other similar items.

Recommended Lifestyle Changes For Restless Leg Syndrome

The condition can vary from one pregnancy to another. If your doctor suggests that your symptoms are not too severe, you can overcome the changes by making simple changes to your lifestyle.

Basic lifestyle changes can improve your condition and help you have a healthy pregnancy. Some recommended changes are as follows:

Avoid drinks rich in caffeine.
Have an active routine with pregnancy-safe exercises.
Apply a cold or hot compress to your leg muscles.

Restless Leg Syndrome is a common condition during pregnancy, and while a formal diagnosis isn’t always necessary, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor if you're experiencing symptoms. You can also try simple home remedies, including time-tested tips for generations. Remember, you're not alone in this; taking care of yourself with the support of a healthcare professional is one of the best ways to manage the symptoms effectively.

FAQs on Restless Leg Syndrome

Is Restless Leg Syndrome during pregnancy harmful to my baby?
No, RLS itself does not harm your baby. However, it can eventually affect your quality of sleep and overall comfort, indirectly impacting your well-being during pregnancy. Managing the symptoms with your doctor’s guidance helps ensure a healthy pregnancy journey for you and your baby as well.
What are some safe ways to relieve RLS symptoms at home during pregnancy?
Gentle leg massages, stretching before bedtime, warm baths, staying hydrated, and avoiding caffeine can help ease RLS symptoms. Always consult your doctor before starting any new remedy to ensure it's safe during pregnancy.