Clamping down on Leg cramps

It is not uncommon to experience leg cramps during pregnancy. A lot of pregnant women suffer from muscle spasms in their legs, with cramping more frequent during the evening. Leg cramps are more common in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy and happen most often at night.

‘I usually wake up in the middle of the night with something akin to a muscle pull in my leg,’ says Abby who is in her 8th month of pregnancy. ‘These cramps started when I was in my second trimester. It is something that does not worry me though. The painful feeling disappears the moment I stretch my leg, normally after a few seconds.’ But for Joan, a first time mother, her pregnancy was without leg cramps. ‘Many of my friends have experienced them, but I did not.’

What causes leg cramps during pregnancy?

According to Dr. Njoki Fernandes, leg cramps may be caused by the additional weight gain that comes with pregnancy and changes in your circulation. Pressure from the growing baby may also be placed on the nerves and blood vessels that go to your legs. This pressure or pinching may be the cause of your leg cramps. Another cause of the leg cramps could be reduced levels of calcium in the blood or increased levels of phosphorus.

How to prevent leg cramps during pregnancy
Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
o Rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes to increase circulation.
o Stretch your calf muscles regularly during the day and several times before you go to bed.
o Resist pointing your toes as you crawl into bed.
o Avoid crossing your legs or standing for long periods of time.
o Eat potassium-rich foods such as bananas,
o Eat calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, fish with bones (salmon or sardines) and green leafy vegetables,
o Stay hydrated during the day by drinking water regularly.
o Take a walk every day. unless your midwife or doctor has advised you not to exercise,
o Reduce your intake of phosphorus-rich foods such as soft drinks, processed meats and snack foods,
o Try a warm bath before bed to relax your muscles,
o Avoid getting too tired. Lie down on your left side to improve circulation to and from your legs,
o Rest with your legs elevated.
o Wear supportive stockings if recommended by a doctor.
There is some evidence that taking a magnesium supplement in addition to a prenatal vitamin may help some women. Check with a health care provider before taking any kind of supplement during pregnancy.

What if the pain persists?
Some women may be tempted to purchase over the counter pain killers to do away with the pain but Dr.Omuga warns against this. ‘If the cramps become unbearable, their cause must be evaluated and treated properly under the care of a skilled service provider.’ He also adds that, ’if these muscle pains are constant and not just occasional cramps, or if you notice swelling or tenderness in the leg. it is advisable to seek a doctor’s opinion. The cramps may be a sign of a blood clot, requiring immediate medical attention. Blood clots are rare, but you risk experiencing them during pregnancy.’

END: PG19/43