Leg cramps are common during the later months of your pregnancy and are generally due to pressure from the enlarged uterus.
Leg cramps frequently occur in bed. You can often get relief by using heat, massage, or stretching the calf muscle. Two exercises that may help:
- Stand about 6 inches away from a sturdy chair and hold onto the back of it. Stretch your calf muscle by sliding the foot of the leg that is cramping as far backward as you can while keeping your heel on the floor. Daily repetition of this exercise may prevent leg cramps.
- If you have someone to help you, lie down on the bed or floor and straighten your cramped leg. Have your helper push down against your knee with one hand and push up against the sole of your foot with the other hand. Repeat if needed. If cramps continue, tell your provider.
