How to Soothe Restless Legs in Pregnancy, Although restless legs during pregnancy are normal and temporary, some people can use home remedies to help soothe the symptoms. These remedies include Epsom salt baths, exercising, and sleeping on your side. However, they do not always work for everyone. The symptoms can be debilitating and can lead to anxiety and depression.
Exercise
Moderate exercise, like walking, can help soothe restless legs during pregnancy. However, it’s important to consult with your doctor before starting any new activity. It’s also important to avoid vigorous exercise right before bedtime. Instead, try a relaxing bedtime routine, which may include gentle bedtime exercises, a warm bath, or a sleep meditation. A pregnant woman’s restless leg symptoms are usually worsened by fatigue, so it’s important to get plenty of sleep. For those who are unable to get enough sleep, try walking off restless leg episodes.
Epsom salt baths
Baths with Epsom salt can be a wonderful treatment for restless legs during pregnancy. This natural salt contains magnesium sulfate and is a popular remedy for aches and pains. It is not to be confused with table salt, however. It is actually crystallized magnesium sulfate. This mineral was discovered in Epsom, England, and has been used for centuries for its healing benefits.
Avoiding caffeine
While caffeine can help with restless legs in pregnancy, it’s not a good idea to take it in large doses. In fact, it can make the symptoms worse. You should only drink caffeine during the day and avoid consuming caffeine at bedtime.
Sleeping on your side
Sleeping on your side during pregnancy can ease the discomfort of restless legs. This is the most common position for a pregnant woman to sleep in. It also promotes the best blood circulation to vital organs and the baby. When you’re pregnant, sleeping on your side is also safer for your baby. It also reduces the chance of stillbirth.
Avoiding positional leg discomfort
In pregnancy, avoiding positional leg discomfort is essential for a healthy baby. It can be very uncomfortable, and it can also affect your sleep. In severe cases, you may not be able to fall asleep or stay asleep for long. Sleep disturbance can affect your daytime function, and your mood. Fortunately, there are ways to alleviate the discomfort. First, consider exercise. Moderate intensity exercises can reduce the discomfort and promote deep sleep. These exercises can include brisk walking, water aerobics, general gardening, and ballroom dancing.
Dopamine agonists
Dopamine agonists can be an effective treatment for restless legs syndrome during pregnancy. They reduce leg jerks during sleep and control the urge to move. These medications can be prescribed by a doctor for occasional symptoms or when there is a definite need for more help. Some dopamine agonists have side effects, such as dizziness or nausea. Other rare side effects include impulse control disorders.
