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| What Are Leg Cramps? |
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Leg cramps are sharp and usually abrupt contractions that often occur in your calf muscles. They tend to occur at night during the second or third trimester and last only a few minutes at a time. Although there are several theories without specific proof to support any of them, you may have heard the many explanations as to why you are experiencing leg cramps during your pregnancy. However, the most commonly held belief is that as your uterus grows, it places increased pressure on the arteries that supply your leg muscles with the necessary blood and oxygen they need. Fortunately, if you are experiencing leg cramps during pregnancy, they usually disappear after your baby is delivered! |
| Can I Do Anything To Avoid Leg Cramps? |
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To help avoid leg cramps, try some simple leg stretches before you go to sleep and as you wake up in the morning. From a sitting position, try straightening your leg and flexing your ankle back and forth towards your torso several times; then repeat this exercise on your other leg. Additionally, massaging your legs before you go to bed at night could help stimulate blood and oxygen flow throughout the evening hours, warding off potential cramps during the night. If you have been on your feet a lot during the day and have experienced leg cramps previously, it may be a good idea to place a heating pad on your legs as you are relaxing in the evening before bed. The heat will help to loosen the muscles and increase circulation prior to lying down at night when leg cramps tend to occur. When you do lie down for bed at night, try to sleep on your left side which has been shown to improve circulation and blood flow throughout your body. |
| What Can I Do To Alleviate The Pain Of Leg Cramps? |
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If you should get a leg cramp, you can try (or your partner can assist if you are in too much pain yourself) massaging the cramp to help alleviate the pain and relax the muscle quicker. Additionally, try taking some deep breaths, it will help to not only calm you, but should increase the oxygen flow in your body aiding in the relief of the cramp. If you are able to, you can also try getting up and walking around to help loosen the muscle. |
| Talking To Your Doctor |
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If leg cramps are continuous, talk to your prenatal care doctor about possibly increasing your calcium or potassium intake during pregnancy; a lack in both vitamins has been linked to leg cramps. Great sources of calcium include milk, yogurt, and cheese. Great sources of potassium include bananas and potatoes. It is important to note that if you ever have swelling or tenderness along with your leg cramp, contact your prenatal care doctor immediately as it could be a sign of a blood clot, requiring further medical attention. |
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| Note: All information on edHelperBaby is of a general nature for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. Your use of this site indicates your agreement to be bound by the Terms of Use. |