Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology : the journal of the Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
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The objective of the present study was to investigate the frequency and the risk factors for restless legs syndrome (RLS) during pregnancy in an Italian population rarely studied, in epidemiological studies on the syndrome. A total of 648 women (median age: 35 years; interquartile range: 32-38), who delivered on randomly selected days at the obstetric department of our hospital, were identified. One hundred and thirty-two women (20.4%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 17.3-23.5) met the criteria for a diagnosis of RLS. ⋯ Older age and sleep-wake disturbances are the main factors associated with the condition. What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Screening for RLS might be useful for pregnant women to manage the condition. Further research is needed to investigate and define the potential impact of RLS during pregnancy on foetal and maternal health.