The sciatic nerve, the nerve that provides feeling and movement to the lower extremities of the body, sits under the uterus. As a baby grows inside the uterus, it can put pressure on this nerve which can result in a condition commonly referred to as sciatica. Although this condition can be unpleasant and even painful, it usually will go away on its own, according to the popular parenting website DrSpock.com. However, pregnant women may want to consult their doctors about sciatica symptoms to get recommendations on things that may bring relief while the condition is present.
Pain
Sciatica can cause pain in the buttocks and all the way down the leg. The type of pain can vary, being either constant and aching or a quick, shooting pain, explains the Cleveland Clinic. The pain is usually felt only on one side of the body. Sitting may intensify the pain, since it puts extra pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Burning or Tingling
A burning or tingling sensation may occur in one leg when the sciatic nerve is pinched. This sensation is similar to what happens when people sit on their legs for too long, and some describe it as their legs "falling asleep" or a pins-and-needles type of sensation. Sciatica can also cause the legs or feet to feel numb or weak, which can make moving them difficult.
Severe Sciatica
A small number of women may develop severe sciatica during pregnancy and have more intense symptoms. Severe pain and numbness that spreads to the groin region are the most common symptoms of severe sciatica. The numbness in the groin may cause difficulty in urinating or having a bowel movement, or conversely may make holding urine or stool more difficult, explains the popular parenting website BabyCenter.com. Pregnant women who think they may have severe sciatica should contact a doctor for treatment as soon as possible.
