About a third of pregnant women experience restless leg syndrome RLS. RLS is a neurological disorder which is characterized by throbbing, pulling, creeping or other unpleasant sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable desire to move them. Symptoms of restless leg syndrome usually occurs at night thereby making having  a good sleep impossible. Once you move your legs however, the feelings subside.

What causes RLS ?

 
The exact cause of this condition is unknown however, it is believed to be caused by an imbalance in the brain chemical dopamine. This chemical is responsible for keeping muscle movement smooth and even.

During pregnancy, restless leg syndrome may be triggered by low levels of iron or folic acid. Rising levels of estrogen during pregnancy may also be a contributing factor.

Having RLS during pregnancy may cause prolonged labor which may lead to a c section delivery. Symptoms of RLS go away within weeks of delivery.

Managing RLS during delivery

Treating RLS depends on the severity. If  you are experiencing severe symptoms which  is  interrupting your sleep every night, you may need to see a doctor for treatment. Most drugs used to treat RLS have  not been studied extensively in pregnant women and therefore not recommended during pregnancy.

Your doctor will check your iron level . If levels are low, you will be given an iron supplement  to correct RLS.

Your doctor may also give you a vibrating pad known as relaxin This FDA approved device is only available through prescription. You will place it under your legs while in bed.

These lifestyle changes may also improve your symptoms.

• avoid coffee, soda and other caffeinated drinks
• exercise daily but don’t over do it
• get a regular sleep routine so that you go to bed the same time each night and get out of bed the same time each morning

 
Whenever you experience symptoms of RLS, you can try these remedies to help you out.

• get up and walk or stretch your legs
• massage your legs
• apply warm or cool compressions to your leg muscles