Table 4.

Restless Legs Syndrome in Pregnancy: epidemiology, risks and management.

◇ Prevalence around 25-30%, peaking in the third trimester, increasing with maternal age and parity

◇ Increased chance of developing permanent RLS after several affected pregnancies

◇ The role of steroid hormones is controversial

◇ Iron and folate supplementation abate prevalence and should be indicated as first-line options

◇ Non-pharmacologic treatment (CBT, exercise, massage, yoga) always advised as safest treatment options

◇ Clonazepam, gabapentin and carbi/levodopa without benserazide: best drug options for safety concerns, for severe RLS on or after second trimester

CBT: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; RLS: Restless Legs Syndrome.