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Pregnancy

Talk about every stage of pregnancy, from early symptoms to preparing for birth.

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Original poster

Twitchy, restless legs

13 replies

artichokes · 30/07/2008 21:50

Is this a pregnancy related symptom? In the evenings, when I get tired, my legs feel really twitchy and restless. But moving them does not make them feel better. Its driving me crazy!

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woose · 30/07/2008 22:29

I have got this too. It is driving me crazy!!!! I have read about it and asked the doctor about it and she said that it can be a symptom of pregnancy. She did say that there were some medicines that you could take, but she did not think they really worked that well. She suggested to me to ask my DH to massage my legs (Yeah right!!). Personally I have found that the more tired I get in the evenings the worse it is at night, so maybe try to go to bed earlier.

I also read that it can be linked to low iron levels. However I don't have that at the moment, but it may be something for you to consider.

What with the legs and the hot weather I have had very little sleep this week, it is a struggle isn't it!

whiteorchid · 30/07/2008 22:32

I've got this too, esp. in the evening and at night. Very annoying. I think it's quite common in preg. The cause is unknown, but it's been associated with iron deficiency and dehydration, apparently. There are drugs to treat it, but of course, none is licensed for use during pg.

Jonut · 30/07/2008 23:01

I feel for you, it's a hideous feeling isn't it! I sometimes get this when not pregnant but very rarely. I find the only way to relieve it is to walk around.

twelveyeargap · 30/07/2008 23:17

I had this and yes, drinking more fluids during the day really helps as does getting more rest. If it's really bothering you, I found 2 paracetamol on the bad nights dulled the nerve endings enough to make it easier to fall asleep.

3littlefrogs · 30/07/2008 23:33

Can also be related to anaemia. What is your haemoglobin?

Original poster

artichokes · 31/07/2008 10:01

Oh, I am so glad I am not a freak (although not glad that others are suffering).

Maybe I will get my iron levels checked, they have not been checked yet . I will also try and drink more water as I am terrible at keeping properly hydrated.

Thanks!

OP posts:

EffiePerine · 31/07/2008 10:03

yes I get this too. Water and I think it may be linked to potassium (of is that cramps? also getting those). Anyway a banana and a glass of water before bed might help...

ellideb · 31/07/2008 10:09

Yes I get it too! Its bloody horrible isn't it? I did have low iron levels and have started taking Spa Tone but I don't get them every night so I don't know if its to do with taking the Spa tone or I'm just on a good roll.

Not having anything covering them also helps mine and having the window open so there's a cool breeze on them.

I've heard that caffeine can cause it for some people too. Just a thought.

jazzandh · 31/07/2008 14:41

I got this dreadfully when pregnant, but also still get it now from time to time.( Worse after alcohol).

I rub deep heat on my legs and that helps enormously. Don't think you can use when pregnant, but a hot water bottle may do the trick. I think it's to do with circulation improving....

You have my sympathy ladies - it drives you mad!

woose · 31/07/2008 19:31

Oh yes, the doctor suggested Deep Heat to me. I think mine may be linked to not drinking enough because I am terrible at remembering to drink lots and since it has been warmer this will have got more important. I must drink more

snix · 01/08/2008 06:57

This is gonna sound really daft but I promise it worked for me.....trap a bar of soap at the back of your knee!!!!!! I used to use my trousers/jeans or pj's to hold it there. I don't know how or why but it does work! Hth xx

JenR449 · 01/08/2008 11:42

I suffered horribly with restless legs during my last preganacy and most of this one. I started making chamomile tea as also had piles and a compress of this tea was recommended (and worked!)so I started to drink the tea aswell as well as raspberry leaf tea at 36 weeks. Restless legs have almost disappeared!! What a wonderful side effect.
Not sure if it's the chamomile tea or just almost cutting right down on normal tea but worth a try. It really helps me sleep as well, much to DPs delight.
Worth a try for anyone suffering, it almost drove me mad.

Jojay · 01/08/2008 11:48

Another sufferer here!!

I find a hot bath helps, and it never seems so bad lying in bed than it does trying to sit on the sofa.

I don't think they can agree what causes it though, so a 'cure' is unlikely.

On the bright side though, I had it with my first pregnancy too, nad it stopped the moment I gave birth.

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