What causes leg soreness, weakness, and fatigue in the late stages of pregnancy?

In general, leg soreness and weakness in the late stages of pregnancy may be caused by uterine compression of blood vessels, calcium loss during pregnancy, lower limb varicose veins, anemia during pregnancy, or gestational hypertension. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Uterine compression of blood vessels: In late pregnancy, the enlarged uterus compresses the inferior vena cava, obstructing blood return from the lower limbs and causing leg soreness and weakness. Avoid prolonged standing or sitting; move your legs every half hour. When resting, elevate your legs 15–20 degrees to promote blood circulation, and wear loose, comfortable flat shoes.

2. Calcium loss during pregnancy: The developing fetus requires large amounts of calcium, and insufficient maternal calcium intake can lead to leg weakness and cramps. Consume calcium-rich foods such as milk and soy products daily. Take calcium supplements such as calcium carbonate D3 tablets, calcium gluconate oral solution, or calcium lactate granules as directed by a physician. Additionally, get adequate sun exposure to enhance calcium absorption.

3. Lower limb varicose veins: Increased blood volume and vascular dilation during pregnancy can lead to impaired venous return in the lower limbs, manifesting as leg weakness and heaviness. Avoid wearing tight clothing, use medical compression stockings, and engage in appropriate activities such as walking and ankle pump exercises to improve lower limb circulation and relieve symptoms.

4. Anemia during pregnancy: Increased iron requirements during pregnancy can lead to iron deficiency, reducing hemoglobin levels and oxygen-carrying capacity, resulting in leg weakness and fatigue. Increase intake of iron-rich foods such as lean meat and animal liver. Follow medical advice to take medications such as ferrous succinate tablets, ferrous fumarate granules, or polysaccharide-iron complex capsules to correct anemia.

5. Gestational hypertension: Elevated blood pressure affects systemic circulation, leading to inadequate blood supply to the lower limbs and causing leg weakness, possibly accompanied by dizziness and edema. Blood pressure must be closely monitored. Antihypertensive medications such as labetalol tablets, nifedipine sustained-release tablets, or methyldopa tablets should be taken as prescribed. Maintain a light, low-salt diet.

Daily care should include ensuring sufficient sleep, avoiding overexertion, maintaining a balanced diet with adequate protein and vitamins, and engaging in gentle exercise such as prenatal yoga to strengthen leg muscles. Keep the legs warm and avoid cold exposure. Comprehensive self-care measures can help alleviate symptoms of leg soreness and weakness.