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Restless Leg Syndrome and Pregnancy
Amy M Phillips1, Lindsey B Sward1, Nirvana Manning1
1From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock.
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) affects up to one-fourth of pregnancies, often worsening in later trimesters. Management includes lifestyle changes, iron supplementation, and sometimes medication.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neurology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a common neurological disorder.
- Pregnancy is a known period where RLS symptoms can emerge or worsen.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the etiology, incidence, risk factors, diagnosis, and management of RLS during pregnancy.
- To assess the risk of RLS recurrence in subsequent pregnancies.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across major electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science) from January 1980 to February 2024.
- English-language articles focusing on RLS in pregnancy were selected for review.
Main Results:
- RLS affects up to 25% of pregnancies, with prevalence increasing in later trimesters and with higher parity.
- Potential contributing factors include iron deficiency, hormonal shifts, mechanical strain, and stress/insomnia.
- Hypertension and a personal history of RLS are identified risk factors.
Conclusions:
- RLS is a frequent complication of pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester.
- Iron deficiency is a significant contributing factor.
- Management strategies encompass behavioral modifications, iron therapy, and pharmacologic interventions when necessary.
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