Question

I am 4 months pregnant. Sometimes my legs feel as if they are falling asleep for hours at a time. Is my baby pinching a nerve?

Answer

The leg sensation you describe could be caused by your baby and uterus putting pressure on a nerve in your pelvis, which could radiate down to your legs. But because your baby and uterus are not yet very big at four months of pregnancy, I would not expect this to be a problem this early. Tingling legs and leg cramps usually occur later in pregnancy, when the baby is much bigger. Changes in your circulation may also be contributing to the sensation you're feeling. Be sure to inform your health care provider about your concern, but in the meantime here are some things you can try:

Do some leg stretching / foot exercises throughout the day. Extend your legs out in front of you and make circles with your ankles; wiggle your toes. This may help with circulation in your legs and feet.

Elevate your legs whenever you can throughout the day.

Try wearing support hose.

Do the "pelvic rock" exercise to stretch low back muscles and increase pelvic circulation. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet on the floor. Rock your bony pelvis toward your face, tightening your abdominal muscles and buttocks; the small of your back will be flat against the floor. Rock the pelvis away from your face and relax your muscles; your back will be slightly arched. Repeat these steps 10 times in a slow rocking movement.

Lie on your side rather than on your back when sleeping.