Cramps During Pregnancy: Causes and Tips for Relief
Cramps are one of the minor problems that come with pregnancy. But there is no need to panic, getting rid of cramps is possible and simple.
Cramps are sudden, intense, involuntary, temporary, but very painful contractions. It often occurs at night and is observed in the calf muscles rather than the thighs and toes. And, of course, it becomes more frequent during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that slow circulation.
Cramps are not harmful and can be easily prevented. However, simple cramps should not be confused with vascular disorders. In such cases, the calf muscles always tense while walking (not at rest) and go away when you stop and start again after about ten meters. You can consult your doctor to remove the suspicion of arthritis (a condition affecting the main blood vessels in the legs). In this case, he will likely do a Doppler ultrasound scan.
How to prevent cramps?
Consume liquid. Otherwise, thirst increases cramps as metabolic wastes cannot be discharged effectively. Quit smoking. Tobacco products cause vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) and an increase in CO2, which inhibits the transport of oxygen and water to the muscles. Get magnesium. Magnesium deficiency negatively affects the relaxation of the muscles, in this case, you can review your diet (increase your dark chocolate consumption!) or apply for supplements.
Always consult a healthcare professional, as excess magnesium can cause digestive system problems. Warm up properly. Do not sprint to catch the bus or warm up for at least 15 minutes before any sports exercise to prevent the build-up of lactic acid that causes cramping in your muscles and to ensure adequate oxygenation to your muscles.
How can you get rid of cramps during pregnancy?
Stretch out… The only thing you can do the moment the cramp strikes is to gently flex your muscle in the opposite direction of excessive tension. If your foot cramps, open your fingers and stretch them forward. If the cramp is in your calf, stretch your foot at the right angle or walk on your heels. Or, while standing, rest the toes of your feet on something without lifting your heels off the ground and stretch with your body leaning against the wall.
Heat… Use a hot water bottle to reduce contractions and hold the bottle over the contracted muscles for 20 minutes for lasting relief. But beware of any risk of burns.
Relax… If your pain continues the next day, massage the cramped area with a product developed especially for pregnant women (other products may contain components that are not recommended). Always massage towards the center of the cramp and do not press too hard.
Rest… Lying down with your feet on a high place such as the head of the bed will improve blood circulation. Make sure you get enough sleep, because lack of sleep will cause fatigue and fatigue will cause cramps.
What to avoid… Avoid aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs as they will dilute your blood and increase bleeding in the muscles. In any case, these are drugs that are not recommended for use during pregnancy.