Muscle cramps are when your muscles suddenly stiffen up without you telling them to and they don’t release either. There is usually a sharp pain. Cramps can happen in any muscle group. During pregnancy they usually happen in the abdomen, back, or legs, especially in the calves. They often occur at night. Many pregnant women would like to know why they get cramps, how to stop cramps, and how to prevent cramps.

Personal Story

When I was pregnant, I hated having leg cramps! Sometimes they happened when I was sound asleep. It was terrible to wake up to the intense pain of a cramping leg. Of course, I wanted to stop the cramps when I was in their painful grip, but I also wanted to learn to prevent them from occurring in the first place.

Why Pregnant Women Get Cramps

Pregnant women get cramps, not because there is a disease in the muscle, but because there is some reason the muscle is not behaving normally. The body is telling them there is disharmony within itself.

Some possible causes include:

• Change in circulation or blood flow
• Dehydration
• Lack of minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, calcium
• Lack of stretching before exercise
• Nerve compression
• Overuse from carrying an unborn child

How to Stop Cramps

There are things you can do to stop the cramps:

• Apply heat
• Apply ice
• Massage the muscle and the ones nearby
• Pull the foot and toes toward your body and gently stretch the muscle. Move them back and forth several times. It’s best to get out of bed to do this.

How to Prevent Cramps

There are things you can do to prevent cramps:

• Drink lots of water to prevent dehydration
• Eat a balanced, whole foods diet, including foods like kiwi and
• Take your prenatal vitamin
• Stretch your legs before exercising
• Alternate being active and sitting throughout the day
• Avoid crossing your legs
• Wear supportive shoes
• Take a warm bath before bed. Using Epsom salts help your muscles and your whole body relax.

While these three natural methods can often help relieve leg cramps, it may be necessary for your health care provider to assess for nerve compression or circulation issues. Please talk with your provider if your cramps continue.

May God bless your healthful endeavors!

Joni

P.S. Please encourage others by writing in the comment section.