Numb Hands During Pregnancy: Causes, Warning Signs, and Relief

In short: The commonest cause of numb hands in pregnancy is swelling of the tissues around the nerve at the wrist; other causes are thyroid disorders, vitamin B12 deficiency and pressure on nerves in the neck. Supporting the hand and reassurance are usually enough, and the symptoms clear after delivery. See the doctor if there is weakness of the hand, muscle wasting or severe pain.

Feeling numbness or tingling in the hands is one of the common symptoms many pregnant women notice, especially in the later months of pregnancy. It can feel worrying, but in most cases it has a simple, temporary explanation.

What are the causes of numbness in the hands during pregnancy?

• Hypothyroidism
• Vitamin deficiency during pregnancy, especially vitamin B12
• Increased fluid congestion in the tissues around the nerve that feeds the hand, which leads to pressure on it and a feeling of numbness
• The presence of neurological problems that affect the transmission of currents within the nerves (such as multiple sclerosis)
• The hand nerve was injured as a result of fractures, for example, or was exposed to pressure due to the presence of tumors

The feeling of numbness may sometimes be linked to a difficult emotional or psychological state the mother is going through, which can show up as physical symptoms.

• The nerve roots are exposed to pressure due to the presence of a disc between the neck vertebrae
• Problems in the hand joints

When is numbness in the hand a sign of a more serious health problem?

• If it is accompanied by a loss of the ability to move muscles
• If it is accompanied by muscle atrophy
• If accompanied by loss of sensation
• If it is accompanied by severe pain in the hand

If numbness comes on suddenly on one side of the body, or is accompanied by weakness, a drooping face, difficulty speaking, a severe headache or blurred vision — go to the emergency room immediately.

What is the most common cause of numbness in the hands during pregnancy?

• Increased fluid congestion in the tissues around the nerve that feeds the hand, which leads to pressure on it and a feeling of numbness — often related to carpal tunnel syndrome in pregnancy

How is numbness in the hands during pregnancy evaluated?

• First, taking a detailed medical history
• A clinical examination to check for any loss of motor ability or sensation in the hand
• Blood tests such as thyroid function and vitamin B12 levels
• An MRI of the neck may be recommended if a disc problem in the neck is suspected
• A nerve conduction study if a neurological condition is suspected
• Immune antibody tests if an immune condition affecting the nerves or joints is suspected

Treatment is always directed at the underlying cause, which is why a proper evaluation matters.

How is numbness treated when it’s due to fluid congestion pressing on the nerve supplying the hand?

• First, by reassuring the mother that this is very common during pregnancy and is usually due to a normal increase of fluid in the body’s tissues
• Encouraging the use of supportive hand or wrist braces for comfort
• Making sure the motor and sensory function of the hand remain unaffected
• Reassuring the mother that this numbness usually disappears completely after birth
• In more severe cases, when motor or sensory nerve function is affected, a surgical incision in the tissue surrounding the nerve may sometimes be considered to relieve the pressure

If you’re experiencing persistent or worsening numbness in your hands during pregnancy, it’s a good idea to discuss your symptoms with your obstetrician so the right tests and reassurance can be provided. Dr. Najeeb Layyous and his clinical team are available to answer your questions and guide you through a safe and comfortable pregnancy.

Dr Najeeb Layyous F.R.C.O.G

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist