Nighttime Hand Tingling & Pregnancy: Potential Circulation Concerns

Question
Hello, Doctor,

I'm 34, I have 2 kids, and the first day of my last menstrual period was July 13th. I've been waking up in the night and one or both of my hands is tingly...like it's asleep and I have to get up and move them around until the blood flows back into them. I am not sleeping in any different positions than I did before I was pregnant. Do I need to be concerned that this is indicative of a bigger circulation problem?

Thanks for your help,
AnnaBeth

Answer
You have developed "Carpal Tunnel Syndrome" which is very common during pregnancy. It is caused by slight swelling in your wrist which compresses the artery, vein, and nerve. This causes your hand to go numb or become tingly. Try shaking it to relieve the feeling. YOu may have to purchase a splint from the pharmacy which keeps the wrist straight during the night. Any flexion of your wrist or extension of your wrist will exacerbate the problem. The problem will disappear spontaneously after the delivery of the baby. It is very common during pregnancy and does not indicate any circulation problem.