Leg Cramps During Pregnancy Second Trimester

Leg cramps are common, are mostly harmless and only last for a short time. They can occur at any time, but most people have them at night or when they are resting.

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You're probably having a hard enough time getting zzzs these days when your belly is getting bigger and your mind is in overdrive — and leg cramps aren't helping.

These painful spasms, which radiate through the calves and legs, are very common in expectant humans. Although they're felt during the day, they're usually more noticeable at night, when fatigue and fluid retention are at their peak (and when you've got all that quiet and stillness to think about it).

While the exact cause of leg cramps during pregnancy isn't clear, there are steps you can take to prevent them. For example:
Stretch your calf muscles. Although evidence is lacking, stretching before bed might help prevent leg cramps during pregnancy. Standing at arm's length from a wall, place your hands on the wall in front of you and move your right foot behind your left foot. Slowly bend your left leg forward, keeping your right knee straight and your right heel on the floor. Hold the stretch for about 30 seconds, making sure to keep your back straight and hips forward. Do not turn your feet in or out. Switch legs and repeat.
Stay active Regular physical activity can help prevent leg cramps during pregnancy. Before beginning any exercise program, make sure you have your doctor's approval.
Take a magnesium supplement. Limited research suggests that taking a magnesium supplement may help prevent leg cramps during pregnancy. Make sure your healthcare provider has clearance to take a dietary supplement. You may also consider eating more magnesium-rich foods like whole grains, beans, dried fruit, nuts, and seeds.
Drink enough Keep your muscles hydrated to avoid cramps. Your urine should be relatively clear or light yellow if you are adequately hydrated. If your urine is a darker yellow, it may mean you're not getting enough water.
Get enough calcium. Some research suggests that low levels of calcium in your blood during pregnancy may contribute to leg cramps. All women, including pregnant women, should consume 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily.
Choose the right footwear. Choose shoes with comfort, support and utility in mind. It can help to wear shoes with a rigid heel counter - the part of the shoe that surrounds the heel and helps lock the foot in the shoe.

If a leg cramp occurs, stretch the calf muscle on the affected side. Walking and then elevating your legs can help prevent leg cramps from returning. A hot shower, warm bath, ice massage, or muscle massage can also help.

What Causes Leg Cramps During Pregnancy?

Short answer: no one is quite sure. Various theories point to the following causes of calf cramps during pregnancy:
Pregnancy fatigue from carrying the extra baby weight
Compression of the blood vessels in the legs
Diet (an excess of phosphorus and a lack of calcium or magnesium)
Pregnancy hormones as they seem to cause so much pregnancy discomfort and pain.

How can I get rid of leg cramps when I'm pregnant?

If you get a leg cramp, try the following:
Bend your feet Straighten your leg and gently bend your ankle and toes toward your shins several times. You can do this in bed, but you may find that you get relief faster if you get up and do it on your feet.
Cool. Try standing on a cold surface, which can sometimes stop a cramp. An ice pack or cool compress can also help.
Warm up. If stretching and cold help relieve the pain, try a heating pad for additional relief. (Do not use heat if pain persists.)
Get a massage. Another option: treat yourself to a prenatal massage or ask your partner to rub you down. (Do not massage if pain persists.)

What to do with leg cramps

Rub the muscle vigorously when you get a leg cramp. If you have a partner and they are around, ask them to help with this.

As soon as you feel the beginning of a cramp, point your heel down and this will gently pull your toes up. You'll get a better stretch if your knee is straight.
Don't pull your toes aggressively.
This could strain your calf muscles.
It's normal for your muscles to feel tender and sore for 24 hours after a leg cramp.