Muscle cramps during pregnancy mostly occur between the 21st and 24th weeks of gestation, which is a normal occurrence due to significant changes in the body.
“Cramps” are caused by a calcium deficiency and excessive phosphorus in the bloodstream because pregnant women gain weight. Both legs have to bear the increased weight, resulting in excessive tension in the blood circulation system in the legs, which can cause cramps.
Not only standing or walking can cause cramps, but even sitting for long periods can also lead to cramps. Especially working mothers who spend long hours at a desk daily may experience poor blood circulation, causing waste to accumulate in the calves, leading to muscle contraction and cramps.
Another cause of cramps is insufficient blood flow to the lower body. Therefore, wearing compression stockings during work hours can help reduce the occurrence of cramps.
First Aid
Slowly stretch the muscle to its normal length and hold the stretch until the pain subsides, which may take about 1-2 minutes. Then try releasing your hand to see if the muscle is still tense. If it is, repeat the process until the muscle relaxes when you release your hand.
Drinking milk and eating foods high in calcium, such as green leafy vegetables, pumpkin seeds, small fish, or other calcium-rich foods, can help reduce cramps. If pregnant women frequently experience cramps at night, they should drink more milk before bed and elevate their legs using a pillow to raise them about 10 cm (4 inches) above the bed.
