Calf cramps or leg cramps are most common to happen in pregnant women. Although the definite cause of this problem is not yet known. Women have higher chances to experience cramps during the third trimester. You can feel right or left leg pain. Some of the possible causes of this problem are:
1. Fatigue
During pregnancy, it is common to feel tired. Especially during the first 12 weeks. It is because of the hormonal changes in your body. But this can be the cause of your leg cramps. You can feel right or left leg pain. You have to rest when you feel pain in your lower limbs. When you feel right leg pain, you can put the foot up. Do it to the opposite side when you also feel pain. Hence, it is to ease your right leg pain. It might take a while before the pain goes away.
2. Pressing of the Uterus on your Nerves
The baby is growing inside your uterus. Also, it can allow compressions in some parts of your body. It is because of the pressing of your nerves and can result in leg cramps. Your blood passes through your nerves. Pressure in the nerves will make it harder for your blood to pass through.
3. Low Blood Circulation in Your Legs
Cramps in your legs can only mean low blood circulation in the lower parts of your body. Your muscles, including your legs, need oxygen to work. If it lacks oxygen and blood, it can result in leg cramps.
4. Deficiency in Magnesium or Calcium
Another reason for this problem is that you might not have enough magnesium in your body. Magnesium is an essential vitamin that your body needs. It helps you to have healthy muscles and nerves. You can find this vitamin in almonds, spinach, and cashews. Calcium is another mineral that promotes bone health. Additionally, it can help you in building strong bones.
5. Dehydration
The majority of our body needs water. That is why drinking water every day should be a habit. It is especially true when pregnant because dehydration can be dangerous. Water has a lot of health benefits. By drinking water, you can already give enough nutrients to your baby. Do not forget to drink water every day.
What are the things to do when you are having calf cramps? There are quick remedies to ease your condition. You can do these things:
- Flex your foot
- Massage your calf
- Do not point your toes when stretching
Prevention
Preventing it is the best thing that you could do to avoid having it. You can avoid this problem by doing these tips.
Stretch your Calf Muscles
It is a good habit to stretch your leg muscles before you sleep and after you wake up. You can do this by standing from a wall. You should be at an arm’s length away. Put your hands on the wall and move your right foot behind your left foot. After that, bend your left leg forward, keeping your right knee straight and your right heel on the floor. Hold this position for 30 seconds and keep your back straight as your hips forward. When 30 seconds is already up, you can switch legs and repeat.
Always Stay Active
It is good to stay active while pregnant to avoid feeling sleepy or tired. However, this should not stop you from moving your body. You should find the motivation to stay active. You do not have to enroll in a fancy class for pregnant women. Walking around the neighborhood can be enough. You can also choose to walk to your nearest grocery store to refill your supplies at home. If you think you can stay active by yourself. Inviting your partner or friends to go with you in staying active would be great. Do not be too hard on yourself. It is good to find ways where you can enjoy it.
Take a Magnesium Supplement
Magnesium can help prevent you from having cramps. But there are only little pieces of research that support this claim. When you have any doubts, you can always ask your doctor about it.
Drink Plenty of Water and Fluids
Always drink your water, especially during hot days. Hence, it is to ensure that your baby is getting enough fluids. Dehydration can lead to other health complications. To avoid that from happening, remind yourself to drink your water. Keeping a water bottle beside you might help in reminding you.
Take Enough Calcium
Not having enough calcium in your blood can cause leg cramps. You should take 1 g of calcium every day to avoid this from happening.
Choose the Right Footwear
Choosing comfortable footwear is very important. Also, it is to provide your legs and foot the right kind of support.
These are the reminders that you have to keep in mind while pregnant. Pregnancy is one of the most challenging milestones in a woman’s life. So, make sure that you are safe during this stage of your life. Above all, it can spare you from the hassle that calf cramps can cause.
