In a message dated 2/13/02 8:56:12 AM, [log in to unmask] writes:

<< I have a question about restless leg syndrome (RLS). I'll admit that this
is

coming from the fact that I have it at the moment due to pregnancy, but it

has got me thinking about RLS and breastfeeding. About a year ago, I talked

to a mother with a newborn who had this syndrome who told me that she was

only going to be able to bf for a few months as she would have to go back

onto medication to control her symptoms.  >>

From The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine:
RLS has been shown to be effectively treated in one of several ways,
depending on the underlying cause. In those w/ a family history, folic acid
deficiency may be causal, but dosages required for treatment are quite high
and require a prescription in the US (35-60mg per day). The most common cause
seems to be a deficiency of ferritin, w/ or w/o anemia. So, a test to measure
the level of ferritin would be required and followed w/ treatment w/ iron
supplements (natural sources are best for the body). <This might explain a
worsening during pregnancy and perhaps even relief while lactating (if mother
is not menstruating).> The third cause is nocturnal myoclonus, which causes
repeated contraction of one or more muscle groups, most often of the leg, and
interferes with sleep, esp deep sleep stages 3 and 4. Treatment with valerian
and passionflower herbs have been shown to be effective. I came across no
mention of meds in this source (which usually lists standard treatments), so
I wonder what she is taking and whether iron supplements would solve her
problem.
Jennifer Tow, IBCLC, CT,USA

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