Heredity of restless legs syndrome in a pregnant population

To synthesize published research on genetic and heredity findings related to restless legs syndrome (RLS) in a pregnant population.

PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases and reference lists from published articles.

Literature searches were conducted for primary research studies published in English on the genetic and heredity findings of RLS in pregnant populations.

Study characteristics and findings related to genetic and heredity aspects of RLS in a pregnant population.

Five data-based articles met the criteria for study inclusion. Study findings comprised Level-2 and Level-3 evidence. Four of the five studies were larger population studies and contained a subset of pregnant participants. Parity and family history were important predictors of RLS proband status. Probands reported symptoms were often initiated during or after pregnancy.

Symptoms of RLS for female probands are often initiated during pregnancy or after childbirth. A history of RLS in a previous pregnancy and family history of RLS were strong predictors of RLS in the current pregnancy. Future research on genetic associations of RLS in pregnancy is warranted.