Restless Legs and Poor Sleep
More women (28%) than men (21%) reported restless legs syndrome (RLS) symptoms in the National Sleep Foundation's (NSF) 1998 Omnibus Sleep in America Poll. Up to 15 percent of pregnant women develop RLS during the third trimester. RLS symptoms - crawling or moving feelings inside the foot, calf or upper leg - temporarily disrupt sleep. Moving the legs can stop these symptoms temporarily, but symptoms return when the limb is still. Fortunately, symptoms usually end after delivery of the baby. Women who are not pregnant can also suffer from RLS.

Drugs used to treat RLS may cause harm to the fetus and should be discussed with a doctor.

Sleep Tips for Pregnant Women

1. In the third trimester, sleep on your left side to allow for the best blood flow to the fetus and to your uterus and kidneys. Avoid lying flat on your back for a long period of time.
2. Drink lots of fluids during the day, but cut down before bedtime.
3. To prevent heartburn, do not eat large amounts of spicy, acidic (such as tomato and citrus products) or fried foods. Also avoid chocolate and foods containing mint. If heartburn is a problem, sleep with your head elevated on pillows.
4. Exercise regularly to help you stay healthy, improve your circulation, and reduce leg cramps. (Be sure to discuss your exercise routine with a physician.)
5. Try frequent bland snacks (like crackers) throughout the day. This helps avoid nausea by keeping your stomach full.
6. Special "pregnancy" pillows and mattresses may help you sleep better. Or use regular pillows to support your body.
7. Naps may help. (In the 1998 WSP, 51% of pregnant or recently pregnant women reported at least one weekday nap; 60% reported at least one weekend nap.)
8. Talk to your doctor if insomnia persists.