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Pregnancy is one of the most challenging periods in a woman’s life, bringing significant physical and emotional changes. Many symptoms and discomforts may appear during this time, and one of the most common issues is numbness in the hands and feet.
In addition to numbness, many pregnant women experience tingling sensations—often described as pins‑and‑needles—in the hands, feet, or other parts of the body. These symptoms typically become more noticeable and more intense during the third trimester.
In most cases, the appearance of these symptoms during pregnancy is completely normal and nothing to worry about. However, if numbness or tingling is accompanied by additional warning signs, it is important to consult a doctor.
Because pregnant women are naturally more sensitive during this period and often worry about their baby’s health, even small changes or unusual sensations can raise concerns. For this reason, in this article we will fully explain the causes of numbness in the hands and feet during pregnancy, along with related symptoms and what they might mean.
So whether you are currently pregnant, planning to become pregnant, have a pregnant loved one, or simply want to better understand the changes that occur during pregnancy, this article is designed for you.
Numbness in the hands and feet is most commonly seen during the third trimester of pregnancy. The main reason is that hormone levels reach their peak toward the end of pregnancy. The rise in certain hormones—especially relaxin, which helps loosen the pelvic joints and prepare the cervix for delivery—causes the body’s ligaments and joints to become more flexible. As a result, the increasing weight of the growing baby places extra pressure on the joints, nerves, and surrounding tissues, leading to sensations of numbness or tingling in different parts of the body.
One of the most important causes of numbness in the hands and feet during pregnancy is fluid retention. During this period, the body stores more water in its tissues, which can lead to a condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).
In this condition, the increased accumulation of fluids in the tissues—primarily as a protective and supportive mechanism for the growing baby—places additional pressure on the nerves. This pressure often begins with pain or discomfort in the arms and hands and may eventually lead to numbness or a “falling asleep” sensation in the hands and sometimes the feet.
Weight gain during pregnancy can also contribute to the development of this syndrome. In some cases, carpal tunnel syndrome may cause tingling sensations or a pins‑and‑needles feeling in the affected areas.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition during pregnancy and is usually not a cause for concern. In most cases, symptoms gradually resolve after childbirth, once hormone levels stabilize and the body returns to its normal fluid balance.
A pregnant woman may develop anemia for several reasons, including a reduced number of red blood cells, iron deficiency, or certain genetic factors. When anemia occurs, the mother’s body receives less oxygen than it needs, and this can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, weakness, and numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.
If a mother has sciatica, she may experience significant pain, numbness, or tingling during pregnancy. These symptoms often become more intense from the second trimester onward, as the growing baby places increasing pressure on the sciatic nerve. This pressure can cause sharp pain, a burning sensation, or numbness that radiates down the lower back, hips, or legs.
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Consult on WhatsAppEven in individuals who are not pregnant, prolonged immobility—especially while sleeping—can lead to numbness, tingling, or a “pins-and-needles” sensation in the hands and feet.
This occurs because, during long hours of inactivity, heart rate and blood circulation naturally slow down. This is also the reason why many cardiovascular events, such as strokes, are more commonly observed during the night or following long periods of physical inactivity.
For pregnant women, this effect is often more pronounced. In addition to prolonged immobility during rest, factors such as pregnancy-related weight gain and physiological changes make expectant mothers more susceptible to these symptoms compared to the general population.
Furthermore, pregnant women may also experience episodes of numbness or tingling after engaging in physical tasks, such as lifting heavy objects, or after consuming certain types of food.
Although numbness in the hands and feet is one of the most common complaints during pregnancy, these sensations are not limited to the limbs. Different parts of the body may occasionally experience numbness or tingling.
Less is said about numbness in areas such as the tongue, abdomen, or other body parts, so some people may be unfamiliar with these sensations and become worried when they occur. These symptoms are not exclusive to pregnant women—they can happen to anyone—but expectant mothers experience them more frequently due to the physical and hormonal changes of pregnancy.
Below, we explain the different types of numbness that may occur in various parts of the body and how to prevent them effectively.
Consuming certain foods or drinks may create an astringent sensation in the mouth, leading to temporary numbness or what many describe as “the tongue falling asleep.” Other possible causes include nerve or spinal pressure, allergic reactions, and similar triggers.
To prevent tongue numbness, you can create a list of foods that consistently cause this sensation and reduce your intake of them.
Try to limit your salt consumption as much as possible. Excess salt can raise blood pressure, increase swelling, and cause the body to retain fluids—all of which may contribute to numbness in different parts of the body.
It is also important to keep your blood sugar stable and avoid letting it drop too low. Low blood sugar is one of the factors that can trigger numbness in the body. Eating at regular intervals can help maintain steady blood sugar levels and reduce the likelihood of such symptoms.
When the uterus or stomach becomes heavy, it can place significant pressure on the abdominal nerves and blood vessels. This pressure may lead to sensations of numbness, tingling, or a “pins‑and‑needles” feeling in the affected area.
To help prevent this issue, you can use the following strategies:
• When sitting or standing, make sure your posture is upright and properly aligned to avoid putting additional pressure on the abdomen and lower abdominal region.
• If you are lying down—or if your obstetrician has recommended bed rest—make sure to change your position frequently. This helps prevent continuous pressure on one specific part of your abdomen.
Numbness in the hands and feet is very common during pregnancy, and in most cases there is no complete or permanent treatment until pregnancy ends. However, several strategies can significantly reduce the discomfort and help manage symptoms more effectively:
Numbness in the limbs—especially the hands and feet—is generally a normal part of pregnancy, and almost all pregnant women experience it to some degree. However, if the numbness continues even after pregnancy, or if it is accompanied by severe tingling, intense discomfort, or worsening symptoms, you should definitely discuss it with your obstetrician.
If necessary, your OB‑GYN may refer you to a neurologist to rule out nerve‑related or other underlying medical conditions.
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Consult on WhatsAppNumbness and tingling in the hands and feet are among the most common physical changes many women experience during pregnancy, especially in the later months. In most cases, these sensations are simply the result of normal hormonal shifts, fluid retention, weight gain, and increased pressure on nerves as the baby grows.
Although these symptoms can sometimes feel uncomfortable or worrying, they are usually temporary and tend to improve after childbirth when the body gradually returns to its normal balance. Paying attention to posture, maintaining healthy circulation, staying active, and following simple preventive tips can often help reduce their intensity.
However, if numbness becomes severe, persistent, or is accompanied by other unusual symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can evaluate the situation and ensure that there are no underlying medical conditions requiring treatment.
Understanding the changes that occur during pregnancy can help expectant mothers feel more confident and reassured throughout this important stage of life.
