Heredity of restless legs syndrome in a pregnant population

Abstract

Objective: To synthesize published research on genetic and heredity findings related to restless legs syndrome (RLS) in a pregnant population.

Data sources: PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases and reference lists from published articles.

Study selection: Literature searches were conducted for primary research studies published in English on the genetic and heredity findings of RLS in pregnant populations.

Data extraction: Study characteristics and findings related to genetic and heredity aspects of RLS in a pregnant population.

Data synthesis: Five data-based articles met the criteria for study inclusion. Study findings comprised Level-2 and Level-3 evidence. Four of the five studies were larger population studies and contained a subset of pregnant participants. Parity and family history were important predictors of RLS proband status. Probands reported symptoms were often initiated during or after pregnancy.

Conclusions: Symptoms of RLS for female probands are often initiated during pregnancy or after childbirth. A history of RLS in a previous pregnancy and family history of RLS were strong predictors of RLS in the current pregnancy. Future research on genetic associations of RLS in pregnancy is warranted.

Keywords: family history; gender; genetics; heredity; pregnancy; restless legs syndrome.