Leg Numbness during Pregnancy

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KEY POINTS

• During pregnancy, numbness and tingling in your legs may be normal, especially as your baby gets bigger.
• If you have numbness and tingling in one or both legs, try lying down and resting, preferably on your left side.
• Discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider at your next prenatal visit.

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What is leg numbness during pregnancy?

During pregnancy you may notice a mild numbness from time to time in your legs. Numbness and tingling may be normal when you are pregnant, especially as your baby gets bigger.

What is the cause?

Most often, numbness and tingling is caused by pressure from your baby on the nerves in your belly, back, or hips.

How can I take care of myself?

If you have numbness or tingling in one or both of your legs, common treatments include:

• Lying down and resting, preferably on your left side. When you rest, spending more of your time lying down instead of sitting. Avoid lying flat on your back.
• Avoiding lifting anything that weighs more than 5 to 10 pounds.
• Taking a break from your exercise schedule if you notice that the numbness or tingling in your legs seems worse when you exercise.

What should I watch out for?

Discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider at your next prenatal visit. If your symptoms get worse, or do not get better after you follow the above recommendations, call your healthcare provider.