Leg cramps usually occur in the third trimester and can strike at any time and are very painful and debilitating while they last. Often they're worse at night.
Leg cramps are common in pregnancy, although the reason why they're more prevalent in moms-to-be isn't totally understood. There are theories that it's to do with a lack of calcium, magnesium and and/or vitamin C – and it can't hurt to make sure your diet is rich in these in any case.
Some experts think sluggish circulation, brought on by pregnancy hormones, also plays a part; others believe that your increasing weight in pregnancy, which also has an impact on circulation, could be responsible.
Leg cramps usually occur in the third trimester and can strike at any time and are very painful and debilitating while they last. Often they're worse at night.
What are the symptoms of Leg cramps?
Seizure of a muscle, which is acutely painful and can last for several minutes at a time. The legs may ache for up to 20 minutes after the muscle has relaxed.
What are the treatments and remedies of Leg cramps?
The usual treatment is to try to stretch the affected muscle by holding the tips of your toes, flexing your foot to make a 90° angle to your shin and holding this position. However, this may be impossible as your pregnancy progresses and your toes become a distant memory! Ask your partner to perform the technique for you if it happens while you're in bed. If you're standing, though, you can bend your other leg, stretch the affected leg out in front of you and flex your foot upwards until you feel the stretch in your calf muscle.
Alternatively, lunge forward on the unaffected leg, with the cramped leg stretch out behind but with a flat foot.
Some expectant moms find massaging the muscle brings relief; others find it much too painful to touch.
Try to keep your circulation up by moving your legs and feet when sitting or standing: circle your ankles and flex and release your foot muscles whenever you think of it.
If you have persistent pain in a calf muscle, accompanied by hot or red skin in the same area, seek medical advice immediately, as these can be signs of thrombosis.
This guide
This article is not meant to substitute medical advice provided by a practicing medical professional - if you have any concerns, contact your physician immediately.