Leg cramps are common during pregnancy and typically affect the calf muscle. This health condition usually begins between the 24th and 36th week of pregnancy.
It may be due to the extra weight carried by the leg muscles or related to swelling from fluid build-up in a pregnant woman’s legs, also known as oedema.
Oedema during pregnancy occurs because the pressure of the expanding uterus slows down the flow of blood returning from the legs to the heart.
A pregnant woman may first develop leg cramps during her second trimester, and the cramps may get worse as her pregnancy progresses and her uterus enlarges. It may also affect the thighs and buttocks as well.
Although it may occur at any time of the day, a pregnant woman would probably notice leg cramps mostly at night as the condition will interfere with her sleep.
How can one relieve leg cramps during pregnancy?
• Immediately straighten the leg with the heel flexed and gently flex the toes back toward the shins. This helps stretch the calf muscles. Don’t point the toes while stretching as it can make the muscle contract and worsen the cramp.
• After the stretch, gently massage the calf to relax the muscle.
• Place a warm towel or hot water bottle or pain relieving cream on the area of the cramp.
• Walk around for a few minutes to improve blood flow.
The following tips may prevent recurrent leg cramps throughout the day:
• Avoid sitting or standing with legs crossed for long periods of time as it may hamper blood flow.
• Try to stretch calf muscles regularly during the day and several times before going to bed.
• Rotate ankles and wiggle toes while sitting, eating dinner, or watching TV.
• Take a walk every day or do other regular exercises unless prohibited by the healthcare provider.
• Lie down on the left side to help improve circulation to and from the legs.
• Drink water regularly to keep muscles hydrated.
• Take a warm bath before bed to relax leg muscles.
If considering taking a supplement to prevent leg cramps, do consult the healthcare provider first to obtain a recommendation. Latest research indicates that calcium supplementation does not help in reducing leg cramps.
If the leg cramps during pregnancy become too troublesome, try magnesium lactate or citrate. Sodium supplements may decrease the number of cramps experienced but the effect is not significant.
Even though it’s troublesome, leg cramps are usually nothing to worry about. But, if the symptoms are severe, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Constant muscle pain, warmth, swelling, redness and tenderness may be signs of a blood clot. This requires immediate medical attention. Although rare, an increase in blood viscosity in pregnancy can cause an increased likelihood of blood clots.
This article first appeared in hellodoktor.com and was reviewed by the Hello Doktor Medical Panel. The Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.