Comments on: Pregnant. I think I’m having restless leg syndrome during the night. Very uncomfortable. What do I do?

By: Erika G

Erika G — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 02:38:00 +0000

Restless leg syndrome is not uncommon during pregnancy, even for people who don’t have it otherwise. It usually goes away within a few weeks after giving birth, but until then, make sure you’re getting enough iron and you may want to consider a magnesium supplement-if you do, make sure to discuss it with your doctor before you add it to your routine.

By: Elle3

Elle3 — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 17:49:56 +0000

Go to a massage therapist. The circulation improvement from the massage will greatly help you at night (and during the day!) I also get this occasionally and when I’m between my massages, I have a warm epsom salt bath before bed and use a warm pack on my low back. The therapist can also give you some tips

By: Ashley

Ashley — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 20:05:07 +0000

RLS is very common for pregnant women. I would sleep with a body pillow supporting my belly up and between my legs. That helped for a little while. But, my last few weeks there was nothing I could do.

By: Kathrine A

Kathrine A — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 14:52:24 +0000

I agree with the answer abit above me, stretching and maybe a warm bath before bed to help you get relaxed, restless leg syndrome is a terrible thing, my husband has it and it keeps him AND me awake all night long sometimes, usually if i coax in into a long hot shower (he won’t take baths) before bed he is way more relaxed and can slip into sleep.
you can talk to your doctor about it because there is medication though i don’t know if it is safe during pregnancy.. sorry

By: jmd72inva

jmd72inva — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 14:50:35 +0000

I have RLS and I don’t like to take medication. I do stretches at night (being pregnant, you may need some help and be careful!) I also have a lot of pillows that I use to keep my legs elevated, but comfortable. It has helped a lot- it may take a night or 2 to feel a difference, but it worked for me. As always- check with your Ob/Gyn- they may have other suggestions that will be more helpful.

Good luck and hope you feel better!

By: amber m

amber m — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 07:53:34 +0000

I had horrible restless legs at night during my last pregnancy. I would take 2 Tylenol at bedtime and that helped SO much! Talk to your doctor before taking any medication but Tylenol is one of the few meds that is typically deemed safe during pregnancy. This may help your back as well. Otherwise, maybe changing position or some stretching exercises may help your back. Good luck!!